Cane Corso Italian Mastiff Mix: Essential Information for New Owners

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The Cane Corso Italian Mastiff Mix is a unique breed that requires attention to its specific needs. This breed is a cross between a Cane Corso and an Italian Mastiff, resulting in a large and powerful dog.

They are generally large dogs, weighing between 90-120 pounds and standing between 24-28 inches tall. Their size can make them a great companion for active families who have plenty of space to roam.

Cane Corso Italian Mastiff Mixes are known for being loyal and protective of their families, but can be wary of strangers. Early socialization is key to helping them become confident and calm in new situations.

They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, and a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity per day is recommended.

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Dog Care

Cane Corsi are low maintenance in the grooming department, which balances being fairly high maintenance where exercise and training are concerned.

Their large size requires room to spread out, and their energy and intensity need plenty of fenced-in space for exercise.

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Shedding isn’t generally a problem with the Cane Corso, but you’ll want to keep a brush and a vacuum handy for seasonal shedding.

Weekly brushing and a bath whenever they get stinky should be enough to keep their coats looking sleek and clean.

You’ll want to introduce your Cane Corso puppy to bathing and brushing early on, as well as to tooth brushing and nail trimming.

Brush their teeth at least three times a week, if not daily, to reduce the potential for dental disease later on.

Drooling can be an issue with large dogs like the Cane Corso, so keep a towel close to mop up messes.

Check their ears regularly for redness, odor, and other signs of infection, and consult with your vet if you find any irregularities.

Trim their nails once a month to prevent clicking on the floor or sidewalk.

Training and Diet

Training a Cane Corso Italian Mastiff Mix requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. They can be strong-willed, thinking they're the ones in charge, so a firm and patient trainer is essential.

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To train effectively, use high-value training treats and introduce your puppy to various people, kids, and pets from an early age. This socialization will help nip undesirable behaviors in the bud.

Their intelligence makes them fairly easy to train, but it's a commitment that must be maintained throughout their life. They need plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training to prevent unwanted behaviors.

A large-breed formula is crucial for their diet, as it meets nutritional standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This ensures normal growth of bones and joints, preventing long-term orthopedic problems.

Their unique nutritional needs include joint supplements, especially if they show signs of joint stiffness or lameness. Feed them smaller meals throughout the day and portion their meals carefully to prevent bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV).

See what others are reading: Are Cane Corsos Easy to Train

Training

Training a Cane Corso requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. They can be strong-willed and independent, so a firm but gentle approach is necessary.

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Using high-value training treats can help keep their attention on you and make training more effective. American Journey Beef Training Bits are a great option.

Cane Corsi need early socialization to help nip undesirable behaviors in the bud. Introduce them to many people, kids, and pets in a safe and positive manner.

Training doesn't stop with puppyhood - it's a lifelong commitment that requires ongoing exercise, mental stimulation, and training. Be prepared to put in the work to keep your Cane Corso well-behaved and happy.

Their high intelligence makes them responsive to training, but they can be challenging for first-time owners. With the right approach and patience, you can develop a strong bond with your Cane Corso.

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Food & Diet

When choosing a food for your Cane Corso, look for a complete and balanced, large- or giant-breed formula that meets nutritional standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

A high-quality, meat-based, large-breed dog food can meet your Corso's nutritional needs while supporting healthy bones and joints.

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Feeding your Cane Corso a large-breed dog formula is crucial because giant breeds have different nutritional requirements for calcium and phosphorus than small- or medium-breed dogs.

Not feeding a large-breed puppy correctly can result in long-term orthopedic problems, so be sure to talk to your veterinarian about your dog's specific needs.

Your veterinarian may recommend joint supplements, like Zesty Paws Mobility Bites, as part of your Corso's nutrition plan, especially if they begin to show signs of joint stiffness or lameness.

To prevent bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), feed your Cane Corso smaller meals throughout the day and portion their meals carefully.

It's also essential to avoid letting your dog eat just before or after exercising, as this can increase the risk of bloat and GDV.

A large breed-specific diet contains unique ingredients, like joint supplements, and lower calcium levels than regular food, which can help slow your Cane Corso's growth rate and lower their risk of developmental orthopedic diseases.

Exercise

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Cane Corsos are high-energy dogs that require regular exercise to stay fit and prevent unwanted behaviors. A couple of miles a day, split into two or three shorter walks, is a good starting point.

Their size means they don't zoom around like other working breeds, but they still need to burn off energy. A romp in the snow is an ideal way to do this.

Exercise needs can vary depending on which parent your pup takes after, but at least an hour of exercise daily is a must. If your pup takes after the Cane Corso side more, you'll need to increase this to 2 hours daily.

As a working breed, Cani Corsi are happiest when given a job to keep them occupied. Obedience training, learning tricks, and dog sports can help fill this need.

They need plenty of fenced-in space for exercise, so make sure you have a suitable yard or access to a secure area.

Puppies

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You can expect to spend between $500 and $800 for a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff mix puppy.

Be very careful when purchasing a puppy from a breeder, as they may not be licensed and can practice backyard breeding, which can lead to mental and physical health issues in the puppy.

Puppies from a shelter are a great option, as they are relatively common and come fully vetted with vaccinations, flea treatment, and dewormer.

Shelter puppies are also likely to be spayed or neutered, microchipped, and ready to go home as soon as you're ready to take them in.

If you do decide to buy from a breeder, make sure to ask about their business practices and ensure they are reputable.

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Health and Environment

Your Cane Corso Italian Mastiff mix needs plenty of space to roam and exercise, a tall fence is a must, and it's not a breed for small dog parks. They can live with cats or other small pets if socialized from a young age, but it's essential to teach children how to interact with them gently.

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To keep your Cane Corso mix healthy, you need to be aware of potential health issues like obesity, hip dysplasia, bloat, idiopathic epilepsy, and eye problems. A proper diet with joint supplements and daily exercise can help prevent obesity and hip dysplasia.

Here are some common health concerns to watch out for:

  • Obesity: Carrying extra weight can lead to joint pain and mobility issues.
  • Hip Dysplasia: A skeletal condition common to large-breed dogs, causing lameness, pain, and arthritis.
  • Bloat: A potentially deadly condition caused by eating and drinking too fast, which can be prevented by controlling intake and using a slow feeder bowl.
  • Idiopathic Epilepsy: A seizure disorder that can be managed with medication, but there's no cure.
  • Eye Problems: Prone to eyelid issues like entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye.

Health and Conditions

Cane Corso mixes are prone to certain health concerns, but being aware of them can help you take preventative measures. Obesity is a significant issue, as it puts added strain on the joints, leading to joint pain and mobility issues as they age.

A proper diet with joint supplements and limited calories is crucial to maintaining a healthy weight. Regular exercise is also essential to prevent obesity.

Hip dysplasia is another common health issue, causing lameness, pain, and arthritis. It's essential to feed large-breed puppy dog food and provide proper joint care to prevent this condition.

Bordeaux Mastiff Dog Lying on Grass
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Bloat is a potentially deadly condition that can be triggered by eating too quickly or exercising after meals. Feeding two or three smaller meals throughout the day and using a slow feeder bowl can help prevent bloat.

Idiopathic Epilepsy is a seizure disorder that can be managed with medication, but there's no cure. It's essential to ask your breeder about genetic screening tests for this condition.

Eye problems, such as entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye, are common in Cane Corsos. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect these issues early on.

Here's a list of common health issues in Cane Corso mixes:

  • Obesity
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Idiopathic Epilepsy
  • Eye problems (entropion, ectropion, cherry eye)

Environment

A backyard with a tall, sturdy fence is a must for your Cane Corso, as they require plenty of space to move around and exercise.

Having a secure yard can help prevent them from escaping and getting into trouble. They're not suited for a romp at the dog park, and keeping them on a leash can be a challenge, even for experienced handlers.

A Domestic Spinone Italiano Dog Standing on a Grass Field in the Evening
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If you have a Cane Corso, it's essential to teach all children in your home how to interact with dogs gently and respectfully, to avoid any potential harm.

Raising your Cane Corso with cats or other small pets from a young age can help them live harmoniously with housemates, but it's crucial to supervise their interactions closely.

In households with older children, it's essential to participate in training and socialization to help your Cane Corso become a well-behaved member of the family.

Cane Corsi can be rambunctious and may accidentally knock over an unprepared senior or smaller animal, so it's best to have an adult-only household or a household with older children who can handle them.

History and Popularity

The Cane Corso Italian Mastiff Mix has a rich history that spans thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Molossi tribe in Greece. These big, Mastiff-type dogs were bred as guardians and later used by the Romans in military service.

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The Romans used the Cane Corso as "pireferi", or military service dogs, carrying flaming buckets of oil on their backs to attack enemy soldiers. After the Roman Empire dissolved, the breed was given less exciting jobs like hunting wild boar and guarding farms.

Today, the breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and is governed by the Cane Corso Association of America.

History

The Cane Corso has a rich history dating back thousands of years to a group of working breeds called mollosers.

These big, Mastiff-type dogs were bred by the ancient Greek tribe known as the Molossi to be guardians. The Romans later brought these dogs back to Italy, where they bred them with native breeds, producing the ancestors of today's Cane Corso and Neopolitan Mastiff dog breeds.

The Romans originally used the Cane Corso as "pireferi", or military service dogs, carrying flaming buckets of oil on their backs during battles.

After the Roman Empire dissolved in the 5th century, the Cane Corso was used for less exciting jobs, such as hunting wild boar, herding livestock, and guarding farms.

The breed was virtually extinct by the mid-20th century due to two world wars, economic downturns, and corporate farming practices.

Portrait of a Spinone Italiano Dog with Curly Fur
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Cane Corsos have a long history, with some speculating they were Roman dogs, originally bred for guarding and hunting.

These dogs were on the brink of extinction in the 1960s, but efforts to revive the breed were successful.

Cane Corsos can reach weights of up to 130 pounds, making them big dogs.

Their size is a guarantee when mixed with other breeds, but the outcome is always unpredictable.

The Cane Corso Italian Mastiff Mix has some impressive parent breeds. The Cane Corso is an ancient breed from Rome, with an unknown precise date of origin.

The Neapolitan Mastiff, on the other hand, was started in 1947 by breeder Piero Scanziani in central Italy. Both breeds hail from Italy, making the Cane Corso Italian Mastiff Mix a true Italian hybrid.

Here are some related breeds you might find interesting:

  • Great Dane
  • Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
  • Anatolian Shepherd
  • Boerboel
  • Bullmastiff
  • Rottweiler

Some notable Cane Corso puppies include Zeus, Raina, and Bob, who are all male and adult.

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The Cane Corso is a unique breed, but it's also closely related to other breeds that share similar characteristics. The Great Dane is one of these breeds, known for its large size and gentle nature.

The Cane Corso is also related to the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, a sturdy and intelligent breed that excels in various dog sports. Its strong work ethic and loyalty make it a great companion.

If you're looking for a breed that's similar to the Cane Corso, you might consider the Anatolian Shepherd. This breed is known for its protective instincts and strong prey drive, making it a great guard dog.

Here are some breeds that are closely related to the Cane Corso:

  • Great Dane
  • Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
  • Anatolian Shepherd
  • Boerboel
  • Bullmastiff
  • Rottweiler

These breeds all share some common characteristics with the Cane Corso, making them great options for those looking for a similar breed.

Parent Breeds from Italy

The Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff both have Italian roots.

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The Cane Corso is much older than the Neapolitan Mastiff, with an unknown precise date of origin in Rome.

Both parent breeds hail from Italy, a country known for its rich history and stunning landscapes.

The Neapolitan Mastiff was started in 1947 by breeder Piero Scanziani in central Italy.

The Neapolitan Mastiff's relatively recent origins are a testament to the enduring popularity of Italian breeds.

Both breeds have unique characteristics and traits that make them stand out as impressive companions.

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Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are generally happy-go-lucky dogs, but their mix with other breeds can even out their personality, making them more suitable for households with smaller children and pets.

Their natural inclination for swimming may be present in their offspring, and it's a good idea to try it out when you can.

Golden Retrievers are known for being intelligent, which lends well to obedience training and socialization.

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Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dogs in America, and for good reason - they're friendly, outgoing, and love to please their owners.

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Labradors are also known for being quite athletic, which makes them a great match for families who enjoy outdoor activities.

They're highly social dogs that thrive on attention and interaction, so it's essential to spend plenty of time with them each day to keep them happy and well-adjusted.

In fact, Labradors are often used as therapy dogs due to their gentle and affectionate nature, making them an excellent choice for families with children.

Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a working dog that thrives on having a job to do, whether that's herding, guarding, or just being a loyal companion.

They're highly intelligent and obedient, which makes training a breeze, especially if you start early.

Rottweilers are also social animals that bond strongly with their family, but they can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is key.

If you're considering bringing a Rottweiler into your family, be prepared for a big, energetic dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

In particular, Rottweilers do best in homes with a rural or country setting, where they can run free and use their natural instincts to their advantage.

A fenced-in yard is a must-have for any Rottweiler owner, as these dogs love to run and play in the great outdoors.

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General Information

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They're a large breed, so expect them to grow big, but not as big as a full-size English Mastiff.

This mix has intense loyalty towards their families, making them good home protectors, but also aloof at times.

They're relatively mellow and need a moderate amount of exercise every day, which can be achieved with regular walks and playtimes.

Appearance

The Cane Corso's appearance is truly regal. Bred to be guardians, these dogs are sturdy, muscular giants with a majestic look that commands attention.

Their ears can be either cropped or uncropped, but it's worth noting that many countries and states have banned ear cropping for medical and behavioral reasons.

Their eyes are a standout feature, with medium, almond-shaped dark brown eyes that are simply striking. In some lighter-colored dogs, the eyes can have lighter shades.

Their nose is large and flush with the muzzle, and it's either black or gray.

The Cane Corso's coat is short and stiff, and it comes in a range of colors including black, gray, fawn, red, and brindle.

Here are the Cane Corso's coat colors in detail:

  • Black
  • Gray
  • Fawn
  • Red
  • Black brindle
  • Gray brindle
  • Chestnut brindle

Their tail is typically docked, but again, many countries and states have banned this practice for medical and behavioral reasons.

English

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The English Mastiff Cane Corso mix, also known as the Mastcorso, is a gentle giant that's perfect for families who want a loyal companion. They're naturally protective of their families, but with early socialization and training, they're great with kids and other pets.

These dogs are likely to grow to be around 130 pounds in weight, so they need a spacious, fenced-in yard to run around in. They also require a home large enough for their bulky bodies.

A Mastcorso's short coat only needs moderate brushing, which is a relief considering their enormous size. They do shed, but regular grooming can help manage this.

Mastcorsos are intelligent and easy to train, but they do need mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. Regular walks, playtime, and tasks can help keep them engaged and happy.

They're not high-energy dogs, but they do need daily exercise to stay healthy. A mix of strenuous activities like agility courses and hikes, along with regular walks, should keep them happy and content.

3 Little-Known Facts

Woman Hugging Large Black Dog in Forest Pathway
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The ancient city of Pompeii was buried under volcanic ash for over 1,700 years, preserving many of its buildings, artifacts, and even the bodies of its former residents.

You can still see the plaster casts of the people who were killed in the eruption, which is a pretty haunting reminder of the devastating power of nature.

Did you know that the average person produces about 25,000 quarts of saliva in their lifetime?

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does a Cane Corso Italian Mastiff get?

A Cane Corso typically weighs 90-110 pounds and stands 23-28 inches tall, with a muscular and stocky physique. This breed's size makes it a powerful companion, but its temperament and needs are just as important to consider.

Are Cane Corso mastiffs good dogs?

Cane Corso mastiffs are intelligent, loyal, and versatile dogs that make great companions for active owners, but they can be strong-willed and require proper training and socialization. With responsible breeding and early socialization, they can thrive as loving and loyal family pets.

Are Cane Corso and Italian Mastiff the same?

Yes, Cane Corso and Italian Mastiff are actually the same breed, with "Cane Corso" being the original Italian name and "Italian Mastiff" being a more commonly used English translation.

Wallace Adams

Lead Writer

Wallace Adams is a seasoned writer with a passion for sharing knowledge with others. With a keen interest in the world of dogs, he has established himself as a go-to expert on the Chinook breed. His articles on Chinook breeders and information have been widely read and appreciated by dog enthusiasts and owners alike.

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