The Cane Corso or Italian Mastiff is a dignified dog with loyalty traits not many dogs can top. Their main role is to keep their owners safe and protected.
Although they’ve been around for a while (since ancient times), you won’t find this giant dog everywhere. Once bred for guarding and hunting, Cane Corsos almost became extinct in the 1960s.
Luckily, many efforts were made to bring back their popularity.
One of those efforts was crossing the Cane Corso with other purebred dogs. Some of them are more common, like the Cane Corso Husky Mix, while mixes with Bullmastiffs, Chihuahuas, Bulldogs, and Border Collies aren’t seen that often.
The Cane Corso is the most receptive Mastiff of them all, making him quite easy to train. If you combine this with their devotion to their family, protectiveness, good looks, and sharp brain, you’ll get one extremely high-quality family pet.
No matter if it comes to kennel training or socialization, the Cane Corso will be brilliant.
Keep an eye out for some common health issues that plague Cane Corso but also Huskies, like hip dysplasia or bloat, take them to the vet regularly, give them lots of energy and love, and you won’t have anything to worry about during their long lifespan of 10 to 12 years.
Now that you know some general guidelines about the Cane Corso, it’s time to get to know other parent dogs and their mixed breed puppies.
Cane Corso: A General Overview Of The Breed
| Physical traits | Personality traits |
|---|---|
| Height: 28 inches | Intelligent |
| Weight: over 100 pounds | Loyal |
| Short and stiff coat | Protective |
| Muscular body | Easy to train |
| Coat color has many variations | Eager to please |
| Needs extensive exercise | Assertive |
| Healthy breed | Good for families |
Standing at 28 inches at the shoulder and weighing more than 100 pounds, the Cane Corso is a large dog with a big head, short and stiff coat, and rippling muscles beneath it. At first glance, they look intimidating. Their tough appearance is the first thing intruders see.
However, things aren’t always what they look like. The Cane Corso is a loyal canine, very intelligent, and always eager to please its owner. They’re versatile dogs, quite assertive, and willful.
Someone once said about the Cane Corso breed: “An understated air of cool competence, the kind of demeanor you’d expect from a professional bodyguard, is the breed’s trademark.”
Like with any other guarding dog breed, it’s important to have the Cane Corso socialized with dogs and people.
As we already mentioned, the Cane Corso sports a short, double-layered undercoat that varies in length, depending on the climate the dog lives in. The coat comes in the following color variations: black, black brindle, chestnut brindle, fawn, grey, grey brindle, and red.
The Corso sheds throughout the year, but the shedding season kicks in during the spring. During the shedding season, you should brush your dog every day. Use a medium bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove to remove the dead hair before it gets on everything.
Brushing also helps to remove dirt and promotes new hair growth. Grooming doesn’t stop here. Nails should also be trimmed regularly to avoid problems with walking and running.
Cane Corsos need extensive workout sessions. A brisk walk or a run for at least a mile in the morning and the evening should sustain their health and muscle tone. You really have to tire them out.
These dogs make excellent companions on long walks, hikes, bike rides, etc. In other words, anything you want to do could include your Cane Corso. They were bred to work, and they’re thrilled when they have a job to do.
Besides physical activity, you should stimulate their brain to avoid boredom from kicking in, followed by destructive behavior. A lot of these dogs engage in competitive sports like agility, obedience, dock diving, tracking events, etc.
We can’t stress enough how important early socialization is. Puppy training classes are recommended for all dog breeds. But, for a strong breed like the Cane Corso, these training classes are simply a must.
Many Corsos can be dominant and overly protective. Proper socialization will diminish these traits and help them grow into well-behaved and well-adjusted adult dogs. Obedience training will keep them from becoming the pack leader of the house.
Generally speaking, they’re easy to train because of their intelligence and eagerness to please their owner.
Even though they look tough and a bit dangerous, Cane Corsos are big, mellow sweethearts. They respond to love and rewards rather than harsh punishment and strict correcting methods.
When it comes to their health, the Cane Corso breed is a fairly healthy one. Responsible breeders should scan their dogs for health issues like hip dysplasia, idiopathic epilepsy, demodectic mange, and eyelid abnormalities.
Since the Cane Corso is a large, deep-chested dog breed, they’re prone to bloat, a sudden and life-threatening stomach condition. Make sure you learn the symptoms of this illness, so you can rush to the vet and cure it in time.
Like many other dog breeds, Corsos should have their ears checked regularly for signs of infections, as well as have their teeth checked out and cleaned.
Your Cane Corso should pass the following health tests from the National Breed Club:
• Hip evaluation
• Elbow evaluation
• Cardiac exam
Cane Corso Husky Puppies: The Siberian Corso
A puppy born from the Cane Corso and Siberian Husky parents is called the Siberian Corso.
An adventurous dog owner looking for an equally adventurous dog will find this mixed breed to be the best dog possible. Since both parents are active dogs, the puppy should also have a high energy level.
Siberian Huskies used to pull sleds once across the frozen land, so that’s a huge plus on the endurance side.
Their intelligence is also on the same level as well as their prey drive.
The Cane Corso is an obedient dog, which triggers the Husky’s desire to do their own thing; thus, the Husky’s stubbornness is curbed. Their puppy would be a bright dog, diligent in dog training and socialization.
It must be emphasized that early socialization is key to the dog’s correct behavior.
The mix of Cane Corso and Husky is a powerful dog with lots of energy to burn. You must ensure you can commit to daily exercise. Going on a few short walks a day tops one extreme workout session.
Also, when getting a Husky and Cane Corso puppy, you should know that they require enough outdoor space to run and play. Their new home doesn’t have to be particularly large, but the outdoor area should dominate.
They’re playful and love playing ball with their owner, running, and hiking.
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
Cane Corso Labrador Retriever Mix: Lab Corso
The Lab Corso mixes the Cane Corso and Labrador Retriever.
If we must choose the most popular dog in the United States, it has to be the Labrador Retriever. No wonder these beloved dogs have been crossed with the mighty Cane Corso. The final result is a friendly dog (the Labrador genes) with the Cane Corso’s excellent judgment.
The Lab Corso is the ideal family dog, affectionate and very protective of the whole family. Thanks to the Cane Corso side of the family, they’re quite easy to train. There’ll be no struggle when it comes to obedience training and socialization.
Luckily, the Cane Corso Labrador Retriever puppy won’t be as needy as the Labrador parent, but it’s always best to spend as much time as you can with your dog.
Since both parent dogs are athletic, their puppy will also be an active dog requiring lots of exercise on a daily basis. Thanks to the Labrador genes, the Lab Corso should love swimming, so there’s a cool idea of how to expend their energy.
Since these puppies grow into large dogs, they fit best in large homes with a huge, fenced yard. They need a lot of space to stretch their legs and move. Putting them in a tiny, crowded apartment would make them suffer.
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix: Rotticorso
The Rotticorso is a cross between the Cane Corso and Rottweiler.
The Cane Corso and the Rottweiler are working dogs. You can definitely expect this mix to be happiest when given a job to do. Rotticorsos are extremely intelligent and tackle dog training without any problems or much effort.
However, you do need to socialize them, but that’s also quite easy if it begins early in puppyhood.
This hybrid is a good choice for a family dog, especially if that family lives in the countryside. They’re big, intimidating, and protective when it comes to their home and family. Also, they’re affectionate and kindhearted.
The Rotticorso should be the best fit with dog owners who have prior experience with dogs as this mix will need special training asap to eliminate bad behavior.
Mighty. Strong. Active. These are three words that describe the Rotticorso the best. Give him a large backyard, plenty of sun, and they’ll find a way to enjoy it all.
Lifespan: 8 to 10 years
Cane Corso Doberman Mix: Dobercorso
The Dobercorso is a combination of the Cane Corso and Doberman Pinscher.
The Dobercorso comes from two parents who make the best guard dogs possible. Highly dedicated to their family, they will protect what’s theirs and keep the home safe, especially if they’re trained from day one.
Even though they’re very protective, Dobercorsos aren’t that aggressive at all. The parents are territorial, and the puppies grow into dogs who know how to respond in different situations when their family’s safety is at stake.
These tough babies aren’t that tough at all. In fact, they’re affectionate and love cuddling with family. They are attached to their family members but won’t make a big deal out of being left alone.
The emotional independence this dog breed has makes them excellent companions for people who are too busy with work.
However, this doesn’t mean the dog will exercise itself. They’re active, with a high-energy drive, and need their long walks.
If you’re a fan of playing with a ball or frisbee, your Dobercorso will also be one. Give them a ball, lots of space to stretch those legs, and proper care. You’ll have one happy Dobercorso in return.
Lifespan: 9 years
Cane Corso English Mastiff Mix: Mast Corso
The Mast Corso is a crossbreed between the purebred dog breeds Cane Corso and English Mastiff.
Nothing is small about this puppy. The Mast Corso is a puppy who will turn out as large as its parents, especially the Mastiff parent. Having loyalty as one of their biggest traits makes them good protectors and quite aloof towards strangers.
This mixed breed puppy is a mellow Mastiff mix, a bit smaller than the regular English Mastiff. This dog is patient, but only if early socialization has been conducted.
There should be no problems teaching them to play gently with the kids and other pets in the house. That’s why the Mast Corso is such a versatile family dog!
Unlike many other Cane Corso mixes, the Mast Corso needs only a moderate amount of exercise daily. Light daily walks, some playtime with the ball or frisbee should be just fine. Add some mental stimulation in the form of dog puzzles and puzzle toys, and you’ll have one smart cookie.
Stimulated and entertained dogs are less prone to becoming destructive.
Lifespan: 9 to 12 years
Cane Corso Golden Retriever Mix: Golden Corso
Here’s a mix of the Golden Retriever and Cane Corso – the Golden Corso!
Probably the most handsome Cane Corso mix on our list is the Golden Corso. Golden Corso puppies grow into dapper dogs who are quite charming. While the Golden side of the family is more relaxed and open to new things, the Cane Corso side is more careful.
But, no one said they’re not friendly!
This dog’s intelligence makes them straight-A students when it comes to obedience training and socialization.
The Golden Retriever’s kindness evens out the aggressiveness the Cane Corso side has, making this hybrid perfectly suitable even for families with smaller children and pets. As long as everyone is introduced carefully, they all will get along just fine.
The Retriever’s instinct for swimming might shine through. Bring them along anytime you’re going to the beach or the lake. These active dogs will appreciate water sports.
If you’re not anywhere near water, a light stroll of around 60 minutes a day will satisfy their exercise needs. Make that twice a day, add a big and spacious yard, and you’ll have the ideal scenario.
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Cane Corso Boxer Mix: Boxer Corso
Boxer Corso puppies are mix puppies resulting from the combination of the Cane Corso and Boxer.
Here’s another puppy on our list that will grow into becoming a working dog, just like his parents. Both the Cane Corso and Boxer were used as messenger dogs during wars and carried supplies, medicine, and ammo.
Having such a rich history behind them, their puppy can only be a terrific offspring with an awesome personality.
The Boxer Corso is happiest with a job where they can prove their usefulness. If you provide proper training, start socializing them early, you’ll make their life more meaningful.
When not on duty, Boxer Corsos love playing with their family members. This makes them excellent additions to families that spend lots of time outdoors.
However, there’s one thing you must commit to without any further discussion. It’s their exercise needs. These dogs need their daily exercise, and they need it twice a day. Exercise should consist of light walks in the dog park.
But, this doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy running, hiking, or playing fetch.
If you commit to their exercise needs as much as they commit when working, your dog should be as happy as a clam.
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Cane Corso Poodle Mix: The Canoodle
Another smart cookie on our list of Cane Corso mixes is the Canoodle, a mix of the Cane Corso and Poodle.
Their intelligence makes these dogs a bit more of a show-off than all the other Corso mixed breeds. Still, they are very obedient and love to please their owner.
If we have to choose one word to describe the Canoodle, it has to be charming. They ooze with charm!
The calm and stoic Cane Corso personality gets a huge boost thanks to the playful and outgoing Poodle.
Puppies of these two parents are agreeable pets, adjustable to many different lifestyles and families. No matter where they end up living, the Canoodle should be socialized and trained. Luckily, they master these lessons in the blink of an eye.
All they need is a firm and strict trainer, who will teach them how to use their natural abilities best.
The Canoodle isn’t a couch potato dog. They’re active and highly playful. If you think they don’t need much activity, you’re absolutely wrong. The Canoodle depends on you to take it out for a walk, play in the park, and go on adventures together.
However, mental stimulation shouldn’t fall behind physical exercise. Being so intelligent makes them prone to boredom. If you don’t want a destroyed flower bed, chewed-up furniture, and destroyed shoes, get them puzzle toys.
Keeping their boredom under control is really the biggest issue with this Cane Corso mix.
Lifespan: 9 years
Cane Corso Pitbull Mix: The Pit Corso
Pit Corsos are a combination of the Pitbull and Cane Corso.
Sadly, Pitbulls are notorious for being aggressive dogs, which is the completely wrong opinion. These dogs are sweethearts, and if more people saw how wonderful Pitties are, they might be able to get rid of this horrible reputation.
The mix of Cane Corso and Pitbull is a wonderful and talented dog. Of course, it also needs training and early socialization to function properly.
The Pit Corso is absolutely loyal and wants to keep its owners happy and safe at all costs. They’re one of those dogs who will love to spend every moment of the day with you.
The Pit Corso is always ready for adventure, so don’t forget to include them in your hikes.
Because of the Corso’s phlegmatic nature, the mix puppy doesn’t have to be coddled too heavily. Still, the sociable Pitbull parent is needy for attention, and that mustn’t be ignored. This is especially true when it comes to their daily exercise needs.
The Pit Corso mix needs to go for a walk at least once a day, but keep it at a moderate pace. If you can throw in some play sessions in the dog park every now and then, you won’t find a happier dog than your Pit Corso.
Lifespan: 10 to 14 years
Cane Corso German Shepherd Mix: The German Corso
No, this isn’t a Cane Corso from Germany; they’re from Italy, remember? This is a mixed puppy between the Cane Corso and German Shepherd – the German Corso!
Both parent dogs are known to be very serious and hardworking. It’s only natural to assume their puppies will act the same. What is certain is that a German Corso puppy will be an intelligent but stubborn canine. This can be problematic if the dog doesn’t receive proper training.
Intelligent dogs aren’t easy to handle. You need to outsmart them. Find a way past their stubbornness, and you’ll see how faithful these dogs can be. They will do anything to defend the ones they love. Need a guard dog or a watch dog? Look no more!
What you need to know before getting this mix is that they have a high energy drive that needs to be depleted on a daily basis. Walks are fine, but they require something more challenging.
If you’re living in the countryside or on a farm, this would be the ideal place for the German Corso. Keeping them engaged in many different activities will keep them from becoming frustrated from boredom.
Lifespan: 9 to 13 years
Cane Corso Great Dane Mix: The Dane Corso
No, that’s not a typo; this is a Great Dane Cane Corso mix called the Dane Corso.
Finally, a dog of great proportions! The Dane Corso comes from large parents, and this can make him look quite intimidating. This is not a bad thing at all, especially if you’re looking for a guard dog.
Despite their shockingly large appearance, Dane Corsos are absolutely adorable and total sweethearts.
Even though they can weigh around 130 pounds, they’re not aware of their size and often end up snuggling on the couch with their family. Honestly, they’re gentle giants, excellent with kids and small pets.
One of their biggest traits is their easy trainability and readiness to socialize. Generally speaking, they are calm dogs.
However, this doesn’t mean they don’t have energy to burn; they have lots of it! They enjoy more strenuous daily exercise, such as agility courses, hikes, and runs. Are you ready for one of these big, bulky babies?
Lifespan: 10 years
Cane Corso Border Collie Mix
The Cane Corso Border Collie mix has a versatile nature. The Border Collie’s friendly nature and the Corso’s aggressive traits are completely opposite, but the resulting mix sports a generally nice personality.
This is a family-oriented crossbreed that carries lots of love and cares for its family members. Like the Corso parent, it’s also quite protective, making them the most loyal family member of them all.
They are feisty, but they will get along with other pets just fine, as long as you have them socialized properly.
If you’re looking for a dog to protect you but still have playtime sessions with you, the Cane Corso Border Collie mix is your pup!
Lifespan: 11 to 13 years
Final Thoughts
Photo from: @sara__rabuffetti
While there are many other mixes, such as the Cane Corso Boerboel mix, we’ve decided to list some of the most popular ones.
Cane Corso mixes are terrific dogs for families who want a large dog without any fuss. Even though they inherit the serious personality of the Cane Corso parent, they don’t lack unconditional love.
They’re smart, obedient, and eager to learn.
Most Cane Corso mixes are eager to show their devotion, all because of their parents. It’s hard to pick which mixed breed dog of all those listed is the one for you.
But, one thing is certain, no matter which one you choose, you’ll get a loyal protector and a dog who will love you forever.
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