Overview
The Corsican Dog, or Cursinu, is an old island landrace that herded livestock, hunted boar and guarded farms, often all in the same week. It is a rugged, medium-sized dog with a brindle coat and a wedge-shaped head, and it was only formally recognised in France in recent decades after nearly dying out.
Walking one in Britain is unusual. Think of a tough, intelligent farm dog with a bit of herding instinct, a bit of hunting drive and a cautious eye on strangers. The individual will decide which of those dominates, so the owner's account matters more than the type.
Exercise and walking needs
An active adult wants about ninety minutes a day with a mix of walking and something to think about. Cursinu were bred to work all day, and a dog with nothing to do will find a job, usually one you did not want done.
They are hardy in weather and happy on rough ground. Hills, woods and varied terrain suit them better than flat paths.
On the walk
- Drive: Expect interest in wildlife and possibly in moving livestock. Keep the dog on a lead near sheep until you know how it reacts.
- Recall: Trainable and often good with a handler it knows. Prove it in an enclosed space before using it in the open.
- Other dogs: Most are sociable enough on a walk, though some guard-type reserve shows with unfamiliar dogs. Introduce calmly.
- Strangers: A watchdog background means it may be reserved. Let the dog approach people rather than being approached.
Tips for professional walkers
- Vary the route and add a search game or a retrieve; the breed is a thinker and gets bored on repeats.
- Give the dog a few meetings with you before the first solo walk so it has accepted you.
- Check the coat for ticks after woodland walks; it is dense enough to hide them.
What to ask the owner
- Which side of the dog comes out most: herding, hunting or guarding, and what sets it off?
- How does it behave with livestock and with unfamiliar dogs, and has it ever been off lead safely?
- What does the dog know by way of commands, and in which language?