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As fans of horror, mystery, and dog lovers alike tuned into Netflix’s Midnight Mass, the most burning question that came to my mind was: “What breed of dog is Pike?” If you’re anything like me, you need to know the backgrounds, personal lives, and full IMDB profiles of all actors (including the animal actors) when you watch any given show. Even more, if you’re like me, the death of a pet in a TV series or movie can feel even more gut-wrenching than that of their human counterparts. Thankfully, Pike, a striking black brindle Cane Corso, is alive and well in real life, but his storyline left fans reeling. You’re in the right spot to learn more about his incredible breed.
Let’s delve into the significance of Pike’s character, fun facts and history of the Cane Corso breed, and how Pike’s role in Midnight Mass seems to be a nod to Stephen King.
Midnight Mass
Midnight Mass is a horror mini series created by Mike Flanagan, set on the fictional, isolated Crockett Island. The story centers around a small, devout community whose faith is shaken by the arrival of a mysterious new priest, Father Paul.
Father Paul’s miraculous abilities reignite religious faith for the townspeople, but they come with dark, supernatural consequences. As strange events unfold, it becomes clear that Father Paul holds dangerous secrets tied to a malevolent force.
The series explores themes of faith, guilt, redemption, and the dangers of blind devotion, blending psychological horror with spiritual and existential questions. If you haven’t watched it yet, get the popcorn. It’s one you’ll binge quickly.
Pike’s Role in Midnight Mass
In Midnight Mass, Pike is the pet dog of Joe Collie, one of the island’s residents. Pike’s role, though brief, catalyzes tension between characters and foreshadows darker events. The dog is tragically poisoned, which stirs conflict within the small community, especially between Joe Collie and Bev Keane, who is suspected of being responsible.
Pike’s death heightens the eerie atmosphere and illustrates the growing moral decay of the dying community of Crockett Island as sinister forces take root, setting the stage for the escalating horror.
Was Pike’s Role Influenced by Stephen King?
While the writers haven’t come out and said it verbatim, Midnight Mass seems to be heavily inspired by Stephen King’s Salem’s Lot, with both stories centering around small, isolated towns slowly overtaken by sinister, supernatural forces. This influence extends to the use of innocent dogs as early victims in both plots, signaling the onset of darker events.
In Midnight Mass, Pike is poisoned, symbolizing the community’s moral and spiritual decline. This parallels the death of Doc, the dog in Salem’s Lot, who is found impaled on a cemetery gate, marking the arrival of vampiric evil in the town. There are whispers that even Pike’s name could be a nod to the pike on which Doc was impaled, creating a clear homage to Salem’s Lot. Both dogs serve as pivotal, ominous symbols of the coming darkness, anchoring the narrative’s descent into horror.
Cane Corso Characteristics
The Cane Corso is a large, powerful working dog breed that can grow to a height of up to 27.5 inches and a weight ranging from 88 to 110 pounds. With a lifespan of 9 to 12 years, this breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and fearless nature.
As a member of the working group, Cane Corsos excel in roles that require strength and protection, making them excellent guard dogs. Despite their imposing size, they are deeply loyal and form strong bonds with their family, displaying a calm and composed nature when well-trained. Their intelligence and fearlessness make them highly capable, but they require firm leadership and proper socialization to thrive. They aren’t great for first-time dog owners, but do well with experienced owners and families.
Common Traits
- Gentle Giants: Despite their intimidating appearance, Cane Corsos are known to be affectionate and gentle with their families, especially with children.
- Expression Says It All: Their facial expressions are very expressive, often reflecting their mood, which helps owners understand them better.
- Protective Instincts: Cane Corsos are natural guard dogs, highly protective of their family and property.
- Loyal and Devoted: They form strong bonds with their owners, displaying deep loyalty and affection.
- Intelligent: These dogs are smart and trainable, though they require consistent and firm leadership.
- Athletic and Powerful: With a muscular build, they are energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy.
- Confident and Assertive: Cane Corsos are bold and can be dominant, making early socialization crucial.
- Calm Demeanor: Despite their imposing size, they are generally calm and reserved, especially around their family.
These traits make them a unique and captivating breed, but they are best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide structure and meet their physical and mental needs.
History
The Cane Corso is an ancient Italian Mastiff breed with roots tracing back to Ancient Rome. Over the past decade, it has surged in popularity due to its striking appearance, loyalty, and protective instincts. Its name translates from Latin to “bodyguard dog.”
Originating from the molossus dogs bred by the Greeks for size and guarding abilities, the breed came to Italy after the Roman Empire’s expansion. This led to the development of two closely related breeds: the Neapolitan Mastiff and the Cane Corso.
The Cane Corso thrived as a farm and livestock guardian in rural Italy, but its population declined drastically by the mid-20th century. Revived in the 1970s, the breed was introduced to the U.S. in 1988 and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2010.
Fun Facts
- Cane Corsos are a very vocal breed and will often join in singing with their humans
- Their name is pronounced KAH-neh KOR-soh — they are Italian, after all.
- The breed was almost extinct, but was brought back to popularity in the 1970s
Final Thoughts
Pike, a striking black brindle Cane Corso from the Netflix miniseries Midnight Mass, plays a poignant role in the chilling tale of the Crockett Island community turned upside down by Father Paul’s arrival. As Joe Collie’s devoted best friend, Pike’s tragic poisoning early in the series adds emotional depth to the narrative.
He embodies the Cane Corso’s defining traits—both protective and loving, showcasing the breed’s unwavering loyalty. Cane Corsos are magnificent dogs that thrive with a strong, confident handler and can become incredibly affectionate and protective lifelong companions.
See also:
- What Breed of Dog Is Pluto? Famous Dogs Presented
- What Kind Of Dog Is Betty On Will Trent? Interesting Facts & FAQ
Featured Image Credit: Olga Aniven, Shutterstock
