Cane Corso Pitbull mix is not your ordinary cross of two powerful dogs. They are larger than life companions with formidable looks but sweet and easy-going nature. If you plan to add this affectionate canine to your home, be sure to gather all the essential information you need to know.
The American Pitbull Terrier and Cane Corso are two huge dog breeds. They also look ferocious, but those who know them understand that they are excellent family companions. When you put these two breeds together, you come up with a mix that is fondly called the American Pit Corso.
The Cane Corso Pitbull mix is a large dog, and they are an ideal choice for novice dog owners who might not be able to handle a dog of their strength and size. The Cane Corso or the Italian Mastiff is a canine of intimidating size. The Pitbull parent, on the other hand, carries a bad reputation as a fighting breed.
The Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Parents
The American Pit Corso mix are big dogs with big hearts. Their physical and behavioral aspects are attributed to their unique lineage. To better understand what you'll be dealing with, let's get to know its parent breed first.
The Italian Cane Corso is an ancient dog breed believed to have descended from the Roman Mastiffs. This breed almost vanished after World War II. Fortunately, they were revitalized by dedicated breeders. Cane Corsos are working dogs that help in wild boar hunting, drive cattle, hunt predators, guard homes, and livestock. They are independent, protective, and often aloof canines. Modern-day Cane Corsos are trained to serve as police and guard dogs.
On the other hand, the American Pit Bull Terriers are migrant dogs that traveled with their English owners from the UK. There are other pitbull breeds that people cross with the Cane Corso. It can be a mix of the American Staffordshire Terrier too. They worked as livestock drivers, guard dog, cattle catchers, and farm companions in the United States.
How Big Will a Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Get?
The Cane Corso Pitbull mix will vary in size and appearance. They are large-sized dogs that will weigh from 50 to 90 pounds. In some instances, they can grow beyond the 100-pound mark. They measure from 20 to 24 inches tall. These dogs are muscular like their parents and often have that chunkiness on top. It has a square-shaped body and head, a thick neck, and a tail that does not fall below the hock.
The Appearance of Pit Corso Mix?
What are the Popular Cane Corso Pitbull Colors?
The most common color in Pit Cane Corso mix is Brindle. Both parent breeds carry the brindle colored-gene, so you can expect to find one in the litter frequently. They have a short and dense coat that feels between the Pitbulls' smoothness and the roughness of the Corsos. It will not be shiny, but it will not be dull colored too. The Cane Corso Pitbull mix breed has a double coat that keeps them cool when the weather is hot and keeps them warm when it is cold.
Pit Corsos may also come in other colors such as fawn, black, red, and various Brindle shades. These are the most common because it is the parents' coat colors; thus, you will find puppies with different combinations. Likewise, the Cane Corso Pitbull mix does not have the merle color-gene. Therefore, if you are presented with a Pitbull-Corso mix pup with this color, check the parents because it may not be a genuine mix of these breeds.
Additionally, the eye color standard in Cane Corso Pitbull mix is various shades of brown or gray. It can be light brown, dark brown, or deep gray. It is rare for these dogs to have yellow or blue eyes. But there are instances when it happens.
How is the Temperament and Intelligence of the Cane Corso Pitbull Mix?
Each dog is different and has unique traits. But like any other dogs, various characteristics have been ingrained into the American Pitbull Cane Corso and its parent breeds. Over the years, they have undergone different training and breeding practices. You can look at the parent breed's temperament and intelligence based on how their parent breed behaves.
Meanwhile, the Cane Corso or Italian Mastiff breed is more on the reserved side. They are quiet, trainable, and calm. These dogs are always devoted and affectionate with their families, including the children, but they can be extremely wary of other people. Cane Corso is also protective, smart, and aloof most of the time.
The Cane Corso Pitbull mix has inherited many of these outstanding characteristics. They are attentive and watchful outside the home, and they take their job as a family guardian seriously. But inside, they are sweet and calm. Just be careful not to allow them to throw around their weight because they are really heavy and big.
Additionally, this working dog cross is intelligent and protective. With the right training and proper handling of an experienced owner, a Pit Corso puppy quickly becomes one of the world's best guard dogs.
What are the Food and Nutritional Requirements of the Pit Corso Mix?
Food and diet requirements are another consideration if you plan to welcome a Cane Corso Pitbull mix into your home. Canines are omnivores, and they have a wide range of nutritional needs from animal and plant sources. For your mixed breed, a diet rich in protein and fatty acids such as omega-3 is ideal. You may also provide them with various fruits and vegetables that are safe and approved by your veterinarian.
If you give them kibbles, opt for high-quality ones that offer a balanced diet for your American Pit bull terrier Cane Corso mix. For instance, stay away from brands with grain fillers and byproducts. Additionally, check for kibbles made from whole foods that also contain vitamins and minerals. Lastly, consult with your veterinarian on the appropriate portion sizes for your pet's age and physique.
What are the Exercise Needs of a Cane Corso Pitbull?
American Pit bull Corso mix-breeds do not demand extreme exercise though they are high-energy pets with an athletic build. But always remember that with their size, a little pent up energy will lead to a disastrous event if not released. Corso Pitbulls are not the type of dogs to hound you with a frisbee; however, they'll do well with at least one long walk per day and a free-run on a large fenced-in yard.
Likewise, provide your pet with plenty of opportunities to play, exercise, and roam. It will keep them happy, relaxed, and in turn, you will be a happy owner too.
How to Train an American Pit Corso?
In terms of training, the owner needs to remain in control when handling a huge, guard-work-oriented dog like the American Pit Corso mix. Training them should start while they are a few weeks old for them to know their place in the family hierarchy. Otherwise, they can go from "sweet and mellow" puppies to "large and in charge" when they become adult dogs.
Thus, the Cane Corso Pitbull mix is not recommended for a new dog owner or as family dogs to those without experience handling large dog breeds. Training at a young age, particularly at 8 weeks old is essential as they can learn and instill obedience commands.
Ideally, working with a professional dog trainer that can teach you how to communicate with your Corso Pit puppy is recommended. Once you get the hang of it, training your Corso Pitbull mix will be more fun and enriching for you both. Training doesn't have to be a chore. And these hard-working canines are intelligent and willing to please their owners.
How to Groom Your Pit Corso?
Also, you should check their nails and trim them whenever necessary. Your mixed breed may even have that dewclaw that they inherited from their Cane Corso parent. Likewise, brush their teeth occasionally to promote gum health and prevent oral conditions. And lastly, avoid wax or dirt buildup and to avoid ear infections by periodically cleaning their ears.
Common Health Conditions of the Corso Pitbull Mix?
The Cane Corso Pitbull mix is a relatively healthy canine with a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. With proper care, regular exercise, and good nutrition, they can live longer and have more years with their human families.
As a mixed breed of two giant breeds, they could also inherit either of the parents' health issues. Thus, be sure to familiarize yourself with these common health conditions and their symptoms:
- Elbow and Hip Dysplasia - both the Cane Corso and American Pit bull Terrier dog are prone to having these conditions; thus, their hybrid will most likely have this concern too.
- Cardiac Health Issues - the American Pit Corso parent breeds are susceptible to a range of cardiac health issues, and the most common among them is dilated cardiomyopathy.
- Allergies - the Pitbull has sensitive skin and often reacts to allergens such as grass or food ingredients. Watch your mix breed for any reactions too.
Other minor health conditions that you should be aware of if you have a Pitbull and Cane Corso mix breed are cherry eye, demodectic mange, and cataracts.
Where to Look for Breeders and What is the Puppy Cost?
As a relatively rare breed, it can be a challenge to find a reputable breeder of the American Pit Corso. Always stay away from puppy mills and avoid supporting breeders that practice unethical practices. For a large dog like a Cane Corso Pit dog, mistreatment during their puppyhood can lead to unpleasant behavior when they grow up.
Thus, connect only with professional breeders and have experienced breeding these types of healthy, heavy, and big dogs. Seek out testimonials from previous clients to know more about the breeder's reputation before you approach them.
Also, meet the parent breeds in person, if possible, to see their condition and check their health clearances. This extra effort is worth it, for you will soon have a happy and healthy puppy to take home.
At present, the average price for a Pit Cane Corso dog from reputable breeders starts at $1,000. Apart from the acquisition cost, other expenses come with owning a dog. You should also consider the food, gears, bed, collars, and veterinary runs you need for your new companion.
Rescues and Shelters
You also have the option to adopt an adult American Pit Corso from dedicated rescues and shelters. Adopting and giving these pets a fur-ever home is a fantastic feat to experience. Considering the numerous cases of Pitbull mixes waiting for a family to adopt them, start your search at local rescue shelters and speak to them about what interests you.
Your second option is to search for dedicated breed centers that rescue purebred puppies and mixes. Check out the Cane Corso Rescue or the Pitbull Rescue Centrals for information on dedicated rescue centers along with their contact information.
How Are Cane Corso Pit Bulls As Family Pets?
Both the American Pitbull Terrier and the Cane Corso are excellent choices for families with children. Thus, the Pit Corso mix breed can also be a great family dog, but they are not a suitable choice for all. They are warm, affectionate, but their large size can be overwhelming for many.
Pit Corsos are large dogs that do well with an active family in a suburban or rural setting. Having plenty of fenced outdoor space where they can have exercises and physical activity is also recommended. These dogs love the outdoors and will appreciate you playing and exercising them.
Are Cane Corso Pitbull Mixes Good With Other Pets?
As with having other pets, the American Pit Corso mix is generally a mellow dog that get along well with other animals in the household. However, it is crucial to socialize them with other pets as early as possible due to their massive size.
More so, when it comes to other dogs, pet owners should know that the American Pitbull breed can have aggressive tendencies toward dog of the same sex. Again, early socialization is essential to avoid these issues.
Final Thoughts
The American Pit Corso is an imposingly large mix but a good dog for those who know the breed. They will require capable hands to handle their requirements. If you do not have the inclination or experience to train these kinds of dogs, it is best to turn your attention to other dog breeds. Reading through this guide should provide you with all the necessary information you need to prepare yourself and your family to welcome this unique canine hybrid.
Despite having some bad reputation because of their parent breeds, Pit Corso mixes are undeniably sweet and loyal companions. They are athletic, aloof towards other people, and highly protective of their human family; thus, they make an exceptional guard dog. Early socialization and proper training are crucial in raising a well-mannered powerful dog. If you are determined and capable of caring for these unique mixes, be prepared to welcome them into your home.
Here are few more Pitbull mixes suitable as a family companion:
