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Cane Corso Pitbull Mix: What To Know

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix: What To Know

Another day another crossbreed. And today we are looking at the Cane Corso Pitbull mix. Two pretty similar dog breeds, at least when it comes to their reputation.

Due to their intimidating looks, people often believe that these dogs are aggressive or dangerous. Let’s clear things up — dogs aren’t aggressive unless they don’t know any better! If you raised your puppy with a lot of love and the proper training — they will be sweethearts. No matter what the breed is.

The same goes for the Cane Corso Pitbull mix. They can be well-rounded, social and calm dogs — but you have to teach them the required skills.

The Pit Corso is the best of both worlds. They are, however, a stubborn mixed breed that isn’t for everyone. Those who take up this puppy without doing their homework risk it not working out. This breed guide is a must-read for anybody considering adopting one of these stunning dogs. But if you can check all of his boxes, we’re confident he’ll check all of yours as well! Let’s see whether the charming American Pit Corso is the right dog for you.

This a fairly new crossbreed and there aren’t any clear documents on when these two breeds were first combined. But just like with any other crossbreed — you never know what exactly you are getting. So let’s take a look at each of the parent breeds.

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Overview

When you consider the physical and temperamental characteristics of Cane Corsos and Pitbulls, creating a Cane Corso Pitbull Mix breed sounds like something a villain would possibly imagine.

When you consider the Pitbull’s aggressive instincts, pairing him with a much larger and stronger dog like the Cane Corso is a formula for catastrophe.

A Pitbull mated with a Cane Corso will be an imposing dog that will demand a skilled handler due to the two breeds’ complementary traits. Strangers will not be welcomed by a Cane Corso Pit Mix, and they may pose a threat to other pets.

A Cane Corso and Pit Mix, on the other hand, would never harm his master. However, a skilled breeder can make an extremely loyal, robust, and protective Pit Corso Mix by mating two well-behaved and healthy specimens. Also, these dogs need an experienced owner, someone who knows what they’re doing and how to train them.

Cane Corso Overview

The Cane Corso is a mastiff-like dog that originated in Italy. He was reared to labor on the ranch, pulling carts, driving animals, and guarding the family estate and hen houses. Hunting for wild boar is also an option. The Cane Corso was nearly extinct, but thanks to breed enthusiasts and the Neopolitan Mastiff, he was spared. He is now more frequently observed protecting families in their houses.

He’s around 23 to 27 inches tall and weighs around 88 to 110 pounds. Although he is a powerful dog, his added weight makes him appear less defined and more cuddly than the Pitbull. His coat is thicker and rougher to the touch, and he has a large square head with a bright grin. He’s only been recognized for ten years, yet his popularity has skyrocketed to 32nd position out of a total of 196 breeds. They are occasionally likened to German Shepherds and other guardian breeds because of their reputation as outstanding property protectors.

Pitbull Overview

In the canine world, the American Staffordshire Terrier has one of the worst reputations. Across the pond in England, his forebears were employed for betting, fighting against other dogs, and killing vermin. The finest and the largest were combined to create the Pitbull that we know and love today. He’s a working dog, who worked as a herder, therapy dog, and household pet since then.

Pitbulls range in height from 17 to 21 inches and weigh between 30 and 65 pounds. They have a muscular build yet are athletically fit. Most Pitbulls have a mischievous grin that stretches from ear to ear, and he is lovingly nicknamed as the velvet hippo by those who adore him. They are typically sociable with everyone, especially strangers, which is why he is an awful guard dog. Quite the opposite of his reputation! Pitbulls are a frequent crossbreed father for other popular mixes in the United States.

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix History & Origins

The Cane Corso is one of many Mastiff-type dogs. This breed was actually developed in Italy and is said to descend from Roman war dogs. Even though they do seem intimidating at first glance, they are also majestic. They are beautiful dogs, but they are definitely not for everyone. If you’re thinking about getting one you should be aware that there are so many things you need to learn. 

The Cane Corso is a dog breed that originated in Italy. When the Cane Corso arrived in the United States, however, its DNA structure changed dramatically. Cane Corsos were discovered to have DNA variants comparable to Rottweilers and Mastiffs in the United States population. This was not the case among the Italians of Cane Corsos.

The Pitbull is said to have originated in Peru from a strong combination of breeds. The original “Peruvian Pitbull” was no longer being bred in 1964, although according to a record from the Peruvian region of La Libertad, the dog was created there in 1944. The Peruvian Pitbull is no longer alive. The American Kennel Club AKC does not recognize modern Pitbulls of this kind as a separate breed.

The Pitbulls as we know them first originated in Great Britain. Breeders combine the strength and power of the Bulldog with the agility and feistiness of the Terrier to create a perfect fighting dog. Unfortunately, Great Britain at that time was also a cradle and birthplace of bloody and cruel fights such as bear-baiting, bull-baiting, and fights between the dogs.

There are no definite records of when these two breeds first crossed paths, however it was most likely a recent evolution. This makes it even more difficult to offer a definitive description of this cross because we haven’t seen many examples yet.

Appearance Of The Cane Corso Pitbull Mix

The Pit Corso is a powerful and muscular dog with a bodybuilder-like physique inherited from both parents. He’ll have a square-shaped body, a large head, a thick neck, and a tail that reaches his hocks, or ankles, in most cases.

Their noses are plump and square, their eyes are almond, and their ears are floppy. In truth, both of its parent breeds have the same ear shape, but many dog owners choose to have their ears trimmed and tails docked, so this isn’t well recognized.

Some Cane Corso Pitbull hybrids, like Cane Corsos, have sagging jowls. Even if this occurs, these jowls will not swing as much. This means you’ll have less slobber flying about and less cleaning to do.

Not only is the Cane Corso Pitbull combination a novel breed, but determining the entire size of any crossbreed litter is tricky. This is due to the fact that the parents are of various sizes, and their offspring might be anywhere in between.

The Cane Corso is a large breed of dog. His height and weight range between 23 and 27 inches, and he weighs between 88 and 110 pounds. This is a muscular dog, yet his enormous size gives him a cuddlier appearance than the Pitbull.

Pitbulls, on the other hand, are medium-sized canines that stand between 17 and 21 inches tall and weigh 30 to 65 pounds. Despite the fact that this may appear to be a large number, they are still significantly smaller than Cane Corsos.

Based on that, the Cane Corso Pitbull hybrid puppy will most likely grow to be between 17 and 27 inches tall, which is a wide range. Making a more exact prognosis, on the other hand, would be extremely difficult.

Most common colors

Brindle is the most prevalent color among Pit Cane Corso mixes. Because both parent breeds have the brindle colored-gene, you may expect to see one in every litter. They have a short, thick coat that is in between the smoothness of Pitbulls and the roughness of Corsos. It won’t be gleaming, but it won’t be bland either. The Cane Corso Pitbull hybrid dog breed has a double coat that keeps them cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather.

Pit Corsos may be found in a variety of hues, including fawn, black, red, and different degrees of Brindle. These are the most common since they are the coat colors of the parents; as a result, you may encounter pups with various combinations. Similarly, the Cane Corso Pitbull mix lacks the merle color gene. As a result, if you see a Pitbull-Corso hybrid pup with this hue, look at the parents to see whether it’s a real combination of these breeds.

In addition, different colors of brown or gray are the usual eye color in Cane Corso Pitbull mixes. It comes in a variety of colors, including light brown, dark brown, and deep gray. Yellow or blue eyes are uncommon in these dogs. However, it does happen from time to time.

Personality

Generally speaking, just like Bull Dogs, Cane Corso can be amazing dogs. But they have quite the reputation. These two breeds are pretty similar. That’s why their crossbreed will have their personality traits too. They are affectionate, loving, and a great family dog. But they have to be in the right environment.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a confident, athletic, fun-loving breed that may be stoic at times but is extremely affectionate to humans and children. These canines have a “zeal for life” and a silly charm, according to their description.

Meanwhile, the Cane Corso is a more reserved breed. They are peaceful, quiet, and trainable. These dogs are constantly loyal and friendly to their family, particularly their kids. Yet they are apprehensive of strangers. Cane Corsos are also protective, intelligent, and aloof for the most part.

Many of these exceptional features have been passed down to the Cane Corso Pitbull mix. Outside the house, they are alert and vigilant, and they take their role as a family protector seriously. But they are pleasant and quiet on the inside. Just be careful not to let them throw their weight around.

If they are with the wrong owner — who won’t train them properly, they can fall into their destructive behaviors. It’s only then that a Cane Corso Pitbull mix may start acting aggressive.

However, that’s the case with any dog breed! If you decide to get a dog — it’s your responsibility to train him. You have to socialize your dog from an early age and help him learn all the skills he needs to be a well-rounded canine. A Pit Corso puppy may soon become one of the world’s top guard dogs with the appropriate training and good treatment from an experienced owner.

Are they good family dogs?

For families with children, both the American Pitbull Terrier and the Cane Corso are good options. As a result, while the Pit Corso mix breed can be a fantastic family dog, but he is not for everyone. They are friendly and cuddly, although their size may be intimidating to some.

The Pitbull Cane Corso breed, which can weigh up to 100 pounds, requires good socialization with family members, particularly kids. Don’t forget to socialize your kids with dogs! Bullying may happen to both big and little dogs. However, when large dogs have gotten their fill, they may become a significant problem.

Pit Corsos are huge dogs who thrive in a suburban or rural environment with an active family. It is also advised that they have enough gated outdoor space where they may exercise and engage in physical activities. These dogs enjoy being outside and will appreciate it if you play with them and exercise them.

The American Pit Corso mix, like other dogs, is normally a calm dog who gets along well with other animals in the house. But due of their enormous size, it is critical to socialize them with other pets as soon as possible.

Pet owners should be aware that the American Pitbull breed can be violent against dogs of the same sex when it comes to other canines. To avoid these problems, early socializing is crucial. Additionally, having a dog of the opposite sex in your house creates a more peaceful canine environment.

Nutrition

If you want to bring a Cane Corso Pitbull mix into your home, you’ll need to think about food and diet. Canines are omnivores, meaning they require a variety of nutrients from both animal and plant sources. A meal high in protein and fatty acids like omega-3 is perfect for your mixed breed. You may also feed them a variety of fruits and vegetables that have been certified by your veterinarian as safe.

If you’re going to give your American Pit bull terrier Cane Corso mix kibbles, make sure they’re high-quality and provide a balanced diet. Avoid brands that contain grain fillers and byproducts, for example. In addition, look for kibbles that are prepared from whole ingredients and include vitamins and minerals. Finally, talk to your veterinarian about the right portion amounts for your pet’s age and size.

Although the Cane Corso Pitbull mix is strong and lively, its weight should be monitored as they grow older. They are fit, healthy, and do not prone to be overweight when they are young. However, as they age, they become more prone to joint and hip problems. As a result, it is preferable for them to maintain their optimal weight in order to avoid the additional weight from exacerbating their health problems.

Training

The American Pit Corso is a beautiful breed of dog. However, he may be a handful, so you must be prepared to train him for the rest of your life. Pitbulls are good for first-time owners, but Cane Corsos aren’t, so this pup will be somewhere in the middle. With this in mind, you must be willing to be firm with him, to be the pack leader, and to not let him get away with misbehaving.

Socialization is the most critical aspect of training a Cane Corso Pitbull. These dogs, like their parent breeds, can grow violent against other dogs and people if they are not properly socialized. Because the combination is such a strong dog, any individual’s aggressiveness might be fatal.

To help him grow into a confident dog, you’ll need to introduce him to different dogs, animals, people, noises, and settings. He will become overprotective and hard to handle if this is not done. Positive reinforcement training is the most effective approach to teaching this mix, and his Pitbull genes should help him learn orders fast.

We also recommend carte training because he despises being left alone. As soon as you bring him home for the first time, make sure he has a box waiting for him. Given his size and strength, an impenetrable container will be required just in case. But, with the right training, he’ll quickly come to appreciate his own little sanctuary.

These methods may be learned through positive reinforcement training. Because of its size and strength, the Cane Corso Pitbull mix requires obedience training. Dogs with guarding instincts keep their food and sleeping place protected. Children, in particular, are vulnerable to attacks by dogs with guarding tendencies because they are poor at understanding the warning indications that a dog gives.

Exercise Needs

Another thing to think about before getting a Cane Corso Pitbull Mix is if you’ll be able to handle its high energy levels. Cane Corsos and Pitbulls are both lively, agile breeds that need to be active and exercised on a daily basis. These dogs require a lot of activity to help them burn off their extra energy. They have a lot of stamina, so it may take a long time to exhaust them. Long walks, fetch, and even swimming or fetching balls in the water are all good options.

While enclosed yards with plenty of freedom to run are ideal, they are not the kind to be left alone. Rather of sending them outdoors to work out alone, they want you to play with them and engage them in your exciting excursions, such as that upcoming hiking trip.

These mixes, especially those that are not trained should not be left alone in a yard for longer periods of time. Simple walks are not as effective as guided exercise. They are constantly eager to spend time with their parents and closest family members. They’re also seeking for mentally stimulating playmates who are highly involved.

Your dog’s brain, too, need exercise. Cane Corso Pitbull mixes are bright dogs who flourish when they are given new tasks. Teach them new skills to keep their minds engaged, and leave a few puzzle toys for them to solve around the house. Keep in mind that a tired dog is a happy and calm dog.

Grooming

The American Pit Corso’s double coat is short and he sheds considerably all year. With a pin brush, you’ll only need to brush once a week. During the shedding season, a de-shedding tool may be handy on occasion. Keep an eye on his skin, and if he exhibits any symptoms of skin allergies, get them evaluated. He will shed about the same as a Pitbull.

Unless they’ve been very active or drooly, they’ll require a bath every four to six weeks. Keep a towel on hand in case you need to spot clean them. Use a dog shampoo so you don’t dry out their skin.

Dental hygiene and nail care are two more grooming requirements to think of. Boerboels, like other tiny breeds, suffer from periodontal disease. To help eliminate tartar and germs, you should brush their teeth multiple times a week. It’s ideal if you do it every day.

Allow your puppy to become accustomed to the habit while they are still young, so that as they grow older, they will be comfortable with it. Also, remember to schedule an annual cleaning with your veterinarian—some tartar accumulation is impossible to remove with a conventional toothbrush.

If your dog’s nails don’t wear down naturally, trim them once or twice a month. They’re too long if you can hear them clicking on the floor. If you don’t know how to do it yourself, ask your groomer to do it for you.

Health

Just like with anything else, the health of a Cane Corso Pitbull mix will depend on the health of his parent breeds.

Pit Bulls are generally healthy dogs. The average lifespan of Pit Bulls is between 13 and 15 years. They only suffer from a few health issues. The most common ones are: Thyroid issue, bone diseases, congenital heart defects and skin allergies.

The Cane Corso is also a very healthy breed! But they too are prone to some diseases. The most common ones are hip dysplasia and eyelid abnormalities like entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye.

The Cane Corso Pitbull mix can basically inherit any of these diseases. However, due to the fact that his parent breeds are mostly healthy dogs — this crossbreed is healthy overall too. But make sure he has a healthy diet and gets a lot of exercise. Because trust us, they need it.

A hip examination, elbow evaluation, and heart check are all suggested health testing for a Cane Corso Pitbull mix by the National Breed Club. Expect an 11-year lifetime from a Cane Corso Pitbull mix. Early detection of problems ensures that any issues are addressed quickly.

Most common health conditions

Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia

Canine hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint becomes unstable as a result of both developmental and environmental factors. Dogs are prone to this bone and joint disorder. The femur does not meet the pelvic bone appropriately, causing the bones to wear out prematurely.

Later in life, your dog may develop arthritis, which can be excruciatingly painful. This ailment shows itself as a peculiar walk, shaky posture, or limping, all of which are plainly seen in your beautiful pup. To preserve your dog’s quality of life, discuss care with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Bloat

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV or Bloat) is a condition that affects dogs with deep, narrow chests. This indicates that your dog is more vulnerable than other breeds. The stomach twists on itself and fills with gas when a dog bloats. The twisting cuts off the stomach’s and sometimes the spleen’s blood flow.

If left untreated, the sickness can kill your dog in as little as 30 minutes. Your dog may retch or heave (but nothing comes out), be agitated, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up). Preventive surgery, which involves tacking or suturing the stomach in place so that it does not twist, is possible.

Heart disease

Heart disease is the major cause of mortality in Boerboels over the age of ten. The majority of heart disease in dogs is caused by the weakening or slow distortion of heart valves, causing blood to seep back around the weakened valves, putting strain on the heart. Heart valve disease (also known as mitral valve disease) causes a heart murmur in pets. Weight control and veterinary care can help avoid heart disease, in addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Von Willebrand’s Disease

This is one of the most prevalent blood clotting problems in humans, and you might be surprised to learn that it can also affect your dog. Von Willebrand’s disease is caused by a lack of the von Willebrand Factor, a protein that aids in blood clotting.

In the event of even a minor cut, this can result in significant bleeding. This disease is difficult to detect because your dog may appear to be in perfect health for their whole life unless they have an injury. Other signs and symptoms may appear in some dogs. Nosebleeds, blood in the feces or urine, and easily damaged skin are examples.

If you and your dog are both careful, this ailment will not have a significant impact on your dog’s quality of life. Inquire with your veterinarian about treatment options for the condition. It’s critical to have your puppy checked for this problem as soon as possible, as certain medications, such as aspirin, might make it worse.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye ailment that might have a negative impact on the quality of life of your dog. This usually happens later in life as a result of retinal degeneration. Retinal dysplasia is the name for the early-onset type, which is observed in puppies. This is when the retinal cells do not mature properly.

The dog becomes partially or completely blind in both cases. While the disease isn’t unpleasant, it can have a significant influence on your dog’s quality of life. Consult your veterinarian about your dog’s alternatives, as well as what to do if he becomes blind.

Allergies

Allergies to pollen, mold, and dust cause people to sneeze. Instead of sneezing, allergies in dogs produce itching. Atopy is a name used to describe a common skin allergy in these puppies. The feet, tummy, skin wrinkles, and ears are the most commonly affected locations. Symptoms normally emerge between the ages of one and three, and they can get worse as time goes on. Licking the paws, stroking the face, and recurring ear infections are the most prevalent allergy symptoms. The good news is that these diseases can be treated in a number of different ways.

Epilepsy

Unfortunately, dogs too can develop epilepsy and seizures. Recurrent seizures with no known cause or abnormal brain damage characterize epilepsy. To put it another way, the brain appears normal on the outside but functions strangely on the inside. Twitching, shaking, tremors, convulsions, and/or spasms are all symptoms of a seizure.

Cataracts

In older canines, cataracts are a common cause of blindness. The lenses of his eyes become more opaque—in other words, hazy rather than clear. Many dogs adapt well to losing their vision and live happily ever after. Surgical removal of cataracts and restoration of vision may also be a possibility.

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Puppy Costs & Breeders

Because the American Pit Corso is a rather rare breed, you’ll need to put on your detective hat to find a reputable breeder. Puppy mills should always be avoided since they frequently sell sick puppies. Instead, look for a breeder that has a professional website or can demonstrate that they’ve bred Cane Corsos with Pitbulls before. Customer testimonials are also a wonderful way to learn about a company’s reputation. But when you locate a healthy and happy puppy, the extra work will be worth it.

The typical cost of an American Pit Corso from a good breeder will be around $1,000. You must also keep in mind that a dog is more than simply his purchase price. You must account for his food expenses as well as his equipment, such as beds, brushes, and collars. You’ll also need to account for the potential rise in insurance and license expenses.

Because both the Cane Corso and the Pitbull may be violent dogs, it’s a good idea to find a breeder that will allow you meet both of your puppy’s parents. The behavior of the parent dog might give you a basic idea of how your new puppy will act. Don’t be shocked if the breeder is unable to provide you with specific information on your puppy’s future look. Crossbreeding results can be difficult to anticipate, regardless of how skilled the breeder is.

The cost of a Cane Corso Pitbull mix varies significantly based on a number of factors. This covers the parent dogs’ quality and bloodlines, the breeder’s reputation, your location, and whether or not the breeder performed health exams on your puppy. Before selling their puppies, some breeders will give them their first vaccine injection and begin training and socializing. All of these might increase the final cost.

Shelters & Rescue

Adopting a dog is a wonderful thing to do, especially when you realize how many Pitbull mixes are looking for a forever home. Talk to the workers at your local rescue shelters about what you’re searching for.

If that doesn’t work, consider a dedicated breed center that rescues purebred and mixed-breed puppies. Pitbull Rescue Central and Cane Corso Rescue both have specific rescue centers listed on their websites, as well as contact information. You’ll not only be saving a life, but you’ll also likely be saving money.

Is The Cane Corso Pitbull Mix The Right Dog For Me?

Crossbreeds can either have the best traits of their parent breeds, or the worst ones. Pitbulls and Cane Corsos are stubborn, protective, courageous, and strong dogs, and their combination may not be suited for inexperienced owners.

Take into account any potential health issues that this breed may have, as well as how they may effect your lifestyle. If you’re willing to take on these challenges and give the required care, a Pitbull Cane Corso Mix can be the perfect pet for you.

For families with children, both the American Pitbull Terrier and the Cane Corso are good options. As a result, while the Pit Corso mix breed can be a fantastic family dog, it is not for everyone. They are friendly and cuddly, although their size may be intimidating to some.

The Pitbull Cane Corso breed, which can weigh up to 100 pounds, requires good socialization with family members, particularly children. Don’t forget to socialize your kids with dogs! As huge as they are these dogs are still sensitive. And they can overreact.

Pit Corsos are huge dogs who thrive in a suburban or rural environment with an active family. It is also advised that they have enough gated outdoor space where they can freely exercise and engage in physical activities. These dogs enjoy being outside and will appreciate it if you play with them and exercise them on a regular basis.

Final Thoughts

The American Pit Corso is a huge mixed breed that is a good choice for individuals who are familiar with raising huge dogs. But they definitely aren’t for first-time dog owners. They’ll need skilled hands to take care of their needs. If you don’t have the desire or experience to train these types of dogs, you should focus your efforts on other dog breeds.

Pit Corso mixes, despite their negative image due to their parent breeds, are indisputably charming and faithful pets. They are athletic, reserved with strangers, and fiercely protective of their human family, making them ideal guard dogs. The importance of early socialization and good training in producing a well-behaved strong dog cannot be overstated. Prepare to welcome these unusual combinations into your house if you are determined and capable of caring for them.

When compared to other breeds, choosing a Cane Corso Pitbull combination may entail a higher chance of violence. To attain pleasant and dependable behavior, your pet will require a large amount of training and socialization time.

So there you have it, the beautiful American Pit Corso. Because of his harsh Cane Corso streak, he isn’t suitable for everyone. This puppy, on the other hand, is a great alternative if you like a mellower variety. Because of his Pitbull ancestry, he will be an attentive dog that will follow you around all day. He will be a delightful pup that you can be proud of with lifetime training.

He’ll be a great addition to the family, and he and the kids will get along swimmingly. He’s a lot of fun, and his goofy nature will ensure that you’ll be laughing for years to come.

While you’re here, why not learn about other dog breeds as well: 

My name is Katy and I am 27. I love to travel and you would be surprised how good I am at karaoke. 🙂 Passionate dog lover and a "mother" to a beautiful toy puddle named Zara. I work as a volunteer in a local shelter and I am a veterinary assistant helping our four-legged friends every day.