At first glance, an untrained eye may easily confuse an American Pitbull Terrier for an Italian Cane Corso. And it’s totally understandable considering their uncanny resemblance. These similarities are also part of the reasons why Pitbull Cane Corso breeders chose these parent breeds to produce American Pit Corso puppies.
Opting for this designer dog proves to be the best option for aspiring dog owners who are torn between these two large dog breeds.
The Pitbull Cane Corso, a rare mixed breed dog, is also a great choice for dog lovers who are looking for hard-to-find dogs.
Both the Cane Corso and the American Pitbull Terrier are known for their strong and muscular physique, which is why they can also be intimidating. However, deep inside, these large dogs are loyal, energetic, and protective of their owners.
Nevertheless, it’s also true that both of these breeds, as well as the Cane Corso Pitbull mixes, require special attention and maintenance. And that’s why the American Pit Corso is not for everyone.
Before you decide to take home this muscular dog, you need to understand its temperament, level of energy, exercise and grooming requirements, health condition, dietary restrictions, and so on.
If you end up getting this pup without researching it beforehand, there’s a chance that your relationship with him will not work out. And this is one of the common reasons why dogs are being surrendered to shelters, given away, or worse, neglected.
So, if you are interested to learn more about Cane Corso Pitbull mix, this guide can give you a better idea about this rare breed that you are currently eyeing.
Breed at A Glance
Size: 20 to 24 inches tall Weight: 50 to 90 pounds Energy Level: High Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
The Pitbull Cane Corso is a rare cross breed dog that is produced by mixing two purebred dogs. And in this case, it’s by breeding an Italian Cane Corso with an American Pit bull Terrier.
Both the Cane Corsos and the Pit Bulls can be intimidating because of their size, muscular body, and fierce look. But again, as mentioned earlier, these are only the qualities that we can see and not the traits that can make or break their status as good family dogs.
This medium to large dog breed can grow as much as 28 inches tall, but usually around 20 to 24 inches. And they can be impossible to carry around alone since they can weigh between 50 to 90 pounds.
Bear in mind, that this dog is also energetic and affectionate, so, you can just imagine the weight that you may have to bear each time your dog starts playing and cuddling with you.
The Corso Pit Mix is a demanding dog that needs a competent and experienced owner, but in the right home, he'll be a devoted guard dog who will stand up for his owners. Also, these canines make loyal guard dogs due to their strength, bravery, and domineering temperament.
They say that if you want to know yourself more, try checking your family history. This is also true with our pets, especially with mixed breed dogs, since their looks, personalities, and health conditions can be influenced by their parents’ bloodlines.
So, a crucial step in learning more about the Pitbull Cane Corso is knowing about the history and origin of its Cane Corso parent and Pitbull parent.
American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pitbull Terriers have one of the harshest and most undeserved reputations in the canine world.
This dog breed’s ancestors were used in England to kill rats, compete against other dogs, and bet on sports.
Bulldogs and Terriers are the American Pit Bull Terrier's direct ancestors. They were historically bred in England at the beginning of the 19th century as baiting dogs.
Pitbull competitions involve dogs that were used to bait bulls (and occasionally bears) inside pits, which is also where its name originated.
Dogfighting has replaced baiting events after animal welfare rules were established since it is simpler to set up and conceal.
For many years, this blood sport was practiced in secret before being completely banned. In 1898, the United Kennel Club (UKC) gave the breed official recognition.
The Pitbull that we know and love today is the result of the best and the biggest being bred together. Since then, the Pitbull has found work as a family pet, therapy dog, and herder.
Pitbulls weigh between 30 and 65 pounds and are between 17 and 21 inches tall. Although athletically slim, they are muscular.
He is often referred to by those who admire him as the velvet hippo. Most Pitbulls have a cheeky smile that extends from ear to ear.
Despite his intimidating look, this dog breed would make a terrible guard dog because he is typically outgoing and friendly with everyone, including strangers. Quite the opposite of what people think about him!
In the United States, Pitbulls are fairly prevalent and are often used as the parents of other popular mixes.
Cane Corso Dog Breed
The assertive and poised Cane Corso is a superior protector because he is intelligent, trainable, and of noble bearing.
The Corso has roots in ancient Rome, and the Latin name of the breed approximately translates to “bodyguard dog.”
The Italian Cane Corso is one of the largest dog breeds in the world with a staggering height of 23 to 27 inches and weighs anywhere between 88 and 110 pounds.
The Cane Corso was developed to work on the ranch, pulling carts, driving animals, and guarding the family estate and henhouses, in addition to wild boar hunting.
The Neapolitan Mastiff and breed enthusiasts saved the Cane Corso, which was on the verge of extinction. Today, this giant dog is more frequently observed doing protective tasks in family homes.
Corsi dogs are highly intelligent, devoted, and ready to please their humans. However, they can also be pushy and willful and can end up dominating a novice owner.
Responsible breeding and early socialization with people and other dogs are essential, just like with any other large guard dog.
Pitbull Cane Corso Mix
The exact date of the first sighting of the Cane Corso-Pitbull cross is unknown. It was probably made not too long ago (some sources say, that it was first bred in 2016), though, because there isn't much precise information about it.
This dog breed is a stunning fusion of both of his parents; therefore, it is inevitable that it will gain popularity very early.
Of all, the personalities and appearances of mixed breeds can be a little unpredictable. But more often than not, he will inherit the best qualities from his parents.
Cane Corso Pitbull mixes are fantastic at protecting your property or serving as search and rescue dogs, and they make great working dogs. In regions where these pups are required, they are also employed as sled dogs.
Cane Corso Pitbull Mix doesn’t have set standards for its appearance, coat, and size since it is a hybrid dog.
The Pit Corso is a large, robust dog with a physique akin to a bodybuilder. He typically has a square-shaped body, a big head, a broad neck, and a long tail that hangs down to his hocks, or more specifically, his ankles.
Many Pitbull Cane Corsos features a broad, white stripe that extends from their chest and stops just past the inside of their front legs. On one or more of their legs, they may also have white feet.
Cane Corso Pitbull mixes also feature almond-shaped eyes, slightly floppy ears, and plump, square noses. Despite the fact that both of its parent breeds have this ear shape, few people are aware of it because many dog owners prefer to crop their dogs' ears and dock their tails.
Like Cane Corsos, some Cane Corso-Pitbull hybrids have droopy jowls. These jowls won't sway as much even if this occurs. This means that you won't have to do as much unpleasant cleaning.
Adult Pit Corso Size
It's exceedingly challenging to estimate the full size of any crossbreed litter, and the Cane Corso-Pitbull combination is no exception. This is so because the parents' sizes vary, and the children's sizes can be anywhere between those of either or both parents.
Generally, the American Pit Corso is a large-sized dog, standing 20 to 24 inches tall and weighing between 50 and 90 pounds.
The American Pit Corso has a short, thick coat. It won't be as bright and glossy as the Pitbull's, but neither will it be as rough as the Corso's. He has a double coat that can keep him warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
The American Pit Bull Terrier is allowed to have any color other than merle, according to the United Kennel Club.
The Cane Corso is subject to more stringent regulations and is only permitted if it is completely black, fawn, gray, or brindle.
Hence, the majority of Cane Corso Pitbull Mixes should have the following colors:
Pure Black
Fawn
Brindle
Some puppies, however, may resemble their Pitbull parent and be a different color, such as:
Blue
White
Brown
Pitbull Cane Corso mixed probably have dark brown eyes, but they could also be light brown or deep gray. This hybrid dog rarely gets yellow or blue eyes, but it does happen occasionally. And if it does, you can expect that he will be a little more expensive than his siblings.
The American Pit Corso features a short double coat, and he sheds occasionally all year long. He will only require brushing once a week with the use of a pin brush. And occasionally during the shedding seasons in autumn and spring, a de-shedding tool will be helpful.
He will just require brushing every 8 to 12 weeks to maintain his finest appearance and health. This dog also has sensitive skin. So, be careful with your choice of shampoo. Good thing, you only need to bathe your dog occasionally, particularly, when he gets dirty.
Keep a watch on his skin, and be sure to get him checked out if he exhibits any symptoms of skin allergies.
The coat is just the beginning of grooming. From the ears to the paws, other aspects of the dog shouldn't be overlooked. The same as with other dogs, nail cutting needs to be done on a regular basis. Untrimmed nails can cause painful ingrown toenails if ignored.
Personality & Temperament
With their large size and muscular body, it’s easy to be intimidated by these large breed dogs. However, the truth is that these dogs have big hearts packed with lots of love and affection for their owners. They are loyal to their human parents, and they love to be always around them and to please them.
Because they are American Pit Bull Terrier descendants, they enjoy being around people and do well in social situations. Whether it's for a cuddle, a game, or just to sit next to you, they always prefer to be near you. They are a constant companion who will never leave your side.
Even when not trained as guard dogs, Cane Corso Pitbull Mixes will naturally be fiercely protective of their family and assume the unofficial position. They are rarely noisy and only bark when there is a threat, like a stranger in their house.
Due to their intelligence and desire to please, they are simple to teach and quick to detect hazards inside the house.
They will curl up on the sofa when they aren't busy being guard dogs, and because of their jowly jowls, they might even snore a little while they sleep.
When given the correct socialization and continuous training from a very young age, some mixes can grow into gentle giants.
However, it is understandable that some Cane Corso Pitbull Mixes have aggressive tendencies given that both parent dogs are powerful, guard dogs. They also have a high prey instinct, which makes them unsuitable around smaller animals.
Despite this, these puppies can get along beautifully with children with proper socialization. In fact, it shouldn't be surprising that Pit Corsos make wonderful family dogs since Pitbulls were once utilized as nanny dogs in the breed's history.
However, they will chase anything smaller than them, even if they have been carefully trained since they were little. They won't think twice about chasing cats, rabbits, squirrels, or even other dogs. They are therefore most suitable for a home without other animals. Additionally, it is crucial that they have perfect recall and are trained to use a leash.
Common Health Issues
More often than not, mixed-breed dogs are healthier than their parent breeds. This is caused by a phenomenon known as “hybrid vigor,” which occurs when a pup's gene pool contains a wide variety of genes and nature always tries to select the healthiest ones.
Recessive genes are responsible for the transmission of many genetic disorders. These genes can remain dormant until a child receives a “bad” gene from both of its parents. Once this occurs, the sickness will manifest.
Because of this, inbreeding is dangerous. Numerous careless breeders inbreed their dogs, resulting in an unhealthy litter. It’s a good thing that Cane Corsos and Pitbulls are not really close breeds; so, their litters are most likely to have hybrid vigor.
However, while Pit Corsos are generally healthy dogs with an average life span of 10 to 15 years, they are still not safe from the possibility of inheriting a multitude of health issues from both of their parents.
Below are some of the health problems that you should watch out for:
Elbow and Hip Dysplasia
Hereditary orthopedic conditions, such as elbow and hip dysplasia are common in many dog breeds, particularly medium-sized dogs to big dog breeds, just as the Cane Corsos and the Pitbulls.
Both illnesses arise from improper growth of the elbow or hip joints, which then leads the joints to deteriorate, making even slight movements very painful.
Bloat or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV)
Bloating may seem like a common and simple condition to have. Well, this may be the case for us, humans. However, bloating poses a life-threatening concern to pets.
When gaseous substances fill the dog's stomach, bloating happens. If this disease is not treated right away, it could develop into more serious problems where the gas-filled stomach twists and becomes blocked.
Cataracts
Pit Corsos' eyes may appear foggy because they have a high chance of developing cataracts. Loss of vision occurs because the fog-like particles prevent light from reaching the eye. All dogs have the potential to get this illness, although older canines are more vulnerable.
Cherry Eye
Cherry eye is a condition in which the third eyelid gland of a Pit Corso protrudes and appears large and red as a result of a weak fibrous attachment. In circumstances like this, immediate veterinary care should be sought.
It is a skin condition that frequently affects pups and is brought on by the Demodex Canis mite.
Epilepsy
Dogs with epilepsy experience seizures, which can be minor or severe, just like humans do. Although there is no cure, it is treatable.
How to Care For a Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Puppy?
Exercise & Living Conditions
The ideal amount of daily activity for this dog is between one and two hours. This exercise can take many different forms, including running, swimming, and strolling.
Due to their tremendous prey drive, they should be trained to walk well on a leash since they will want to chase practically anything that moves.
Given that this mix is predicted to grow to be a huge dog, apartment living is not an option. Instead, he would be more suitable to live in a medium- to a large-sized house with lots of space to get silly.
He would also value having access to fresh air by having his own fenced yard. You may also need to introduce him to the local delivery guy.
Diet & Nutrition
The Cane Corso Pit should not be denied a nutritious meal because it is a large, active dog mix, and it would suffer more than a smaller breed pup when given low-quality dog food.
To keep up with its high energy, this vigorous dog should eat three to four cups of age-appropriate kibble that is intended for large breed dogs. This would give him the essential nutrients that he needs, as well as the right amount of calories that can support his overall health.
Also, for this hybrid dog, protein is the most essential nutrient, added with some healthy fats, minerals, and carbohydrates.
Pit Corsos are also known for being voracious eaters, which puts them at risk for obesity. Hence, to prevent this from happening, you should stick to a regular feeding schedule, and be careful to measure his food each meal time.
You should also avoid free-feeding your pup, and you can use a puzzle-style feed bowl to make them work for their food and prevent them from eating too fast.
Training
Even though the Cane Corso/Pitbull mix is a smart dog, they require a knowledgeable owner who is adept at handling big, strong dogs.
They are not appropriate for inexperienced owners who might find it difficult to train out guarding and aggressive behaviors.
Early socialization is essential for this large hybrid dog. For him to develop into a self-assured canine, you must expose him to other dogs, animals, people, sounds, and settings. Without this, he will become too protective and troublesome.
The most effective method for teaching this mix is positive reinforcement training. Thanks to his Pitbull ancestry, this dog breed ought to learn new orders easily. You may also tap the help of a professional dog trainer to help you with this crucial task.
We would suggest crate training him because he also detests being left alone. As soon as you bring him home for the first time, make sure a box is ready for him.
You're going to need an impenetrable crate just in case, given his size and strength. With the right training, he'll learn to cherish his safe and secure personal sanctuary.
Buyer’s Guide
What to Look For?
The most straightforward approach to locate a reputable breeder if you're looking for a Cane Corso/American Pit Bull Terrier mix puppy is to speak with established American Pit Bull Terrier or Cane Corso breeders directly.
However, just a heads up, breeders of Cane Corso/Pitbull hybrids are scarce. Few people would consider selling this breed because they are still quite rare.
In addition, it can be difficult to sell mixed-breed dogs because you never know what the future pup will look like.
Always stay away from puppy mills since they frequently sell maltreated or sickly animals. Any dog, but especially a large dog with guarding tendencies, will find this to be bad news.
Find a breeder instead who can demonstrate that they have prior experience with Cane Corso and Pitbull breeding or who has a professional website. Customer reviews provide a wealth of information about a company's reputation.
Always meet the puppies in person, along with their parents, and request to view the health clearances.
You'll realize the extra work was worthwhile when you find a healthy and content puppy.
Price of Corso Pitbull Mix Puppies
A Cane Corso/Pitbull mix's price can vary significantly based on a number of variables. This includes the caliber and pedigree of the parent dogs, the breeder's reputation, your location, and whether or not the breeder gave your dog the required health examinations.
Before selling them, some breeders also administer the first vaccine shot to the puppies and start the socialization and training process. All of this may increase the final cost.
The majority of Cane Corso-Pitbull mix puppies will cost you at least $1,000. If you choose a dog with an unusual color or from two recognized bloodlines, these fees may increase up to $2,500 or even higher.
The purchase price and ongoing costs of having a Pit Corso should also be taken into consideration if you're thinking about getting one.
Some of the initial costs you should budget for include food supplies, beds, collars, leashes, food bowls, and grooming necessities. The total cost of these supplies is about $300.
Is Pit Corso Puppy Right for You?
The Pitbull Cane Corso is a protective dog that can be an excellent family pet and guard dog for deserving and competent owners.
Having said this, these puppies would only be excellent canine companions with proper training and early socialization.
You should also be mindful that these are large muscular dogs. Hence, even if they are properly trained and socialized, it’s still not advisable to have them around kids. They could easily and unintentionally knock small children down during playtime, which can result in injuries.
Pitbulls and Cane Corsos can both be aggressive and possessive. This is helpful if you want a guard dog, but it may become a problem if they are overly protective of their food and favorite toys. So, your child would need to understand the rules and how to act around them.
Also, as mentioned earlier, this dog has a high amount of energy. So, taking this into consideration, as well as their massive size, it’s obvious that this is not the right dog for apartment dwellers. This large and energetic dog would do well in a large house with a fenced backyard.
Conclusion
These enormous dogs adore people and love having them around, but they are wary of strangers.
If properly taught, they will become wonderful family dogs and remain a devoted friend to every member of your family.
Don't let the unfavorable image of these two breeds deter you from pursuing your plan of having a Cane Corso/Pitbull mix.
However, it's vital to note that these are not beginner dogs.
There are many dog breeds out there that are ideal for novice or first-time dog owners.
So, it’s best to avoid getting this breed if you haven't had experience with huge dogs. Don't take the chance of ruining your dog's life or even the life of someone else around you.
A freelance writer and huge animal advocate, with 6 dogs and 3 cats. Graduated with a medical degree and is now spending time running a shelter and rescuing animals in need. Loves a good book, travel and spend time with family and pets.
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