Four Cane Corso puppies carying a stick

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix – The Guard Dog That You Will Love

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The Cane Corso Bullmastiff mix is a mix of two quite popular dogs. It is a big strong dog that is very lovable but also protective.

The main thing it is known for is that it is a guard dog that is very loyal to its family. Not everyone can take care of this family dog, but those who can become very good friends.

Key Takeaways

  • This is a medium-sized dog breed.
  • It has a weight of 90-130 pounds and a height of 24-27 inches.
  • It has a smooth and short coat that doesn’t shed a lot.
  • An intelligent dog breed that is eager to please.
  • Territorial and protective, which makes it a perfect guard dog.
  • The lifespan is around 8-12 years.
  • Common health issues include bloat, hypothyroidism, eye problems, and cancer.
  • It costs around $500 – $2000.

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix History

The exact history of this mix of dog breeds is not completely known. But its parent breeds have existed for a long time.

The Cane Corso is a dog breed that was developed in Greece and then brought to Rome by the Romans. These dogs were used in battles at first. When times changed, they were used as guard dogs which is how they got their name. In the 1980s this large dog came to the US, and in 2010 it was accepted by the American Kennel Club.

The Bullmastiff is actually a mixed breed made of the Bulldog and the English Mastiff. It is believed that this breed was made in the late 1800s in England. They were used as guard dogs and gamekeeper’s dogs. The breed was imported to the US in the 1930s, and in 1934 it became officially recognized by the AKC.

Appearance – The Perfect Guard Dog

The Bullmastiff Cane Corso mix will be a large-sized dog. This is no surprise because both of its parent breeds are large dogs. All Mastiff breeds like the English Mastiff, French Mastiff, Italian Mastiff, and Neapolitan Mastiff are also big dogs.

It is a muscular dog with a broad chest and strong legs. Its head is large and it has a short muzzle. It also has small and floppy ears and almond-shaped eyes of different colors. Its tail is medium and thin.

Bullmastiff Cane Corso Mix Size

It is a large breed with a weight of 90-130 pounds and a height of 24-27 inches. Some dogs can grow up to weigh even 160 pounds. The female dogs are usually a bit lighter and shorter than the males.

Coat And Color

The coat of this breed can be different depending on the genes it inherits from its parent breeds. Usually, it has a smooth and short coat. If the Bullmastiff genes are dominant it can have wrinkled skin. If the Cane Corso dog genes are dominant its skin will be tighter with fewer wrinkles.

The Mastiff Corso mix coat color can vary. The most common colors are bland, brindle, fawn, red, and chestnut.

Photo by @kane_the_cobracommander (IG)

Temperament – A Big Dog With A Heart Of Gold

Because both its parent breeds are guard dogs, this mixed breed is also an excellent dog to have guard your home. It is very territorial and protective so it doesn’t get along with other strange people and animals. You shouldn’t have this dog with a smaller animal inside the house. It has a high prey drive and will chase and attack any small animal.

This dog is also very loyal and affectionate. It doesn’t bark a lot and is considered a quiet dog. It is calm and peaceful and it won’t cause you any trouble. It can be around your small children and act as a gentle giant. It is an intelligent dog and very eager to please, but it can easily get bored. The relatively high energy level requires daily exercise.

Average Lifespan And Health Problems

The lifespan of the Cane Corso and Mastiff mix is around 8-12 years. During its life, it may encounter a few common health issues.

Common Health Problems

Bloat – Also known as Gastric Dilatation Volvulus is a disease of the gastrointestinal system. The dog’s stomach gets filled with gas and it makes it hard for food and gas to be expelled. Eating foods like uncooked rice can cause impaction and bloat. Common symptoms are discomfort, stiff belly, excessive drooling, and fast breathing.

Hypothyroidism – This is a disease that causes dysfunction of the thyroid gland resulting in low thyroid hormone.  The metabolic rate of the dog slows down. Common symptoms include weight gain, lethargy, cold intolerance, hair loss, and slowed heart rate.

Hip dysplasia – This is a musculoskeletal disease that attacks the dog’s joints. The hip joints develop improperly and with time it can lead to arthritis. You will notice your dog having problems with walking, pain in the joints, and limping. “The cause of CHD is multifactorial; however, hereditary (genetics) is the biggest single risk factor. Rapid weight gain and growth through excessive nutritional intake can complicate the development of CHD.”, according to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Cherry eye – The Mastiff and Cane Corso mix can suffer from eye problems like cherry eye, cataracts, glaucoma, and entropion. Cherry eye happens because the third eyelid prolapses and causes discomfort. It should be treated with surgery.

Demodex mange – This disease is caused by a parasite that normally lives in the dog’s hair follicles. “Dogs with immature or compromised immune systems that allow this mite to overgrow will develop clinical signs such as hair loss and red, scaling skin lesions.” says Dr. Katie Grzyb for PetMD.

Ear infections – Dogs with floppy ears are usually predisposed to this condition. Their outer ear is warm and wet making it perfect for bacteria to build up. You will notice your dogs ear become red, eject discharge, and have a very bad odor.

Cancer – The cancer of the lymph nodes called lymphoma is common with the Bullmastiff so this mixed dog might have it too. It appears early in its life. The American Animal Hospital Association says that:

Lymphoma appears most often as swollen lymph nodes under the jaw, in front of the shoulders, or behind the knees. Occasionally, lymphoma may attack lymph nodes in the chest or abdomen, which makes breathing difficult or causes vomiting and diarrhea.

How To Take Care Of This Mixed Breed

Taking care of the Bullmastiff mixed with Cane Corso requires you to take care of the food, grooming, exercise, and proper training.

Nutrition

Make sure to feed a high-quality and nutritious diet to this big dog. Try to find food that has a lot of protein. Use dog food with fewer carbohydrates. Lots of carbs can lead to obesity and mobility problems.

The food should also be rich in vitamins and minerals, as well as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

If you are choosing a specific dog food, make sure to choose the ones meant for large dogs. Consult your vet for the exact amount you should feed your dog. It will depend on the age, gender, and weight of the dog.

Grooming

The parents of this breed are pretty low shedders and are considered moderate-maintenance dogs. That said, there is information out there that some of these Bullmastiff and Cane Corso mixes shed a lot during spring and fall. Make sure to brush your dog at least once a week.

You can bathe your dog once a month. Make sure to use a dog-friendly shampoo that is good for its skin. Brush its teeth regularly so they remain healthy and fresh. Clean its ears and watch out for wax buildup to prevent ear infections. Clip its nails from time to time to prevent them from getting big.

Exercise And Training

This is a big dog that comes from a family of breeds that are used as protectors. So it needs moderate exercise throughout the day. Make sure to give it around 1 hour of exercise every day so you satisfy its needs. You can take a walk or do more active exercises like running or hiking. If don’t satiate its exercise needs, the dog will start jumping on you because of boredom. 

The Bullmastiff Cane Corso mix is a moderately intelligent dog and eager to please so training can be easy. The problem is that this dog tends to get bored quickly so make sure you keep the training sessions fun and short. Use techniques like positive reinforcement and establish yourself as the leader. Proper socialization and mental stimulation are also important from an early age.

Photo by @kane_the_cobracommander (IG)

How Much Does This Mixed Breed Cost?

The price of this hybrid breed is not high because its parents are not expensive breeds. Usually, a Bullmastiff Cane Corso mix puppy will cost you somewhere around $500 – $2000. The higher prices come from high-end breeders. Some rare colors and bloodlines can also cost more.

You need to make sure that you get your puppy from a reputable breeder. The breeder should give you all the information and health clearances you need about your puppy. You need to know the health history and bloodline of the dog. If you can, you can also ask to meet its parents and siblings to know more about the dog you will be getting.

If you feel like rescuing a dog, you can go to a shelter rescue and see if they have this mixed breed. You might be surprised to find the perfect friend to give a home to.

Are There Any Other Breeds Similar To Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mixes? 

The Cane Corxer is a mix between the Cane Corso and the Boxer. This dog is similar to the Cane Corso Bullmastiff mix by its intimidating look and protective instinct.

You can try mixing the Cane Corso breed with other strong dogs as a great substitute. Such are the mixes with the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pitbull Terrier. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Bulldog are also good choices.

If you want a weirder combination, you can try mixing a Cane Corso with a Golden Retriever, a Labrador Retriever, or a German Shepherd. Another unusual combination is the mix between the large Great Dane and the Cane Corso.

Photo by @kane_the_cobracommander (IG)

Is The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix For You?

This breed is a mix of dogs that are known for their strength and loyalty. So it’s no wonder that it is such a good guardian dog to have at home.

It has a sturdy build with a muscular body and strong legs. Its appearance is similar to one or the other parent breed. With a short and smooth coat and almond-shaped eyes, it is a beautiful dog to have at home.

It is generally a quiet dog that is a loving member of the family. Dog owners should be careful if they have other small pets at home because of its high prey drive.

The Cane Corso Mastiff mix is relatively healthy with a few diseases that it can be predisposed to. With early socialization, a nutritious diet, proper grooming, and enough exercise and training, you can let your dog be happy and healthy.

FAQ

Is the Bullmastiff mixed with Cane Corso a good apartment dog?

Even though this is a big dog breed, an apartment can be a good place for it. It is a quiet dog and if you give it enough exercise it will fit right in.

Should you get a male or female King Corso Bullmastiff mix?

Male dogs are usually larger and more prone to territorial behavior and aggressiveness. Female dogs are calmer and nurturing, while also having lower energy levels. However, every dog is an individual and can be trained accordingly.

Who is the ideal owner of a Bullmastiff mixed with Cane Corso?

This owner needs to have experience in interacting with a large dog breed such as this one. The owner needs to be dominant and have enough time to train the dog properly. Having an active lifestyle and enough space at home is also useful.

Is this dog breed a good first pet?

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff mix is not recommended as a first pet. This is because even though it’s intelligent, it can be hard to handle if you don’t set yourself as the leader of the pack.

Is the Cane Corso Bullmastiff mix good with kids?

Yes, this mixed dog is good with children. It is very patient and affectionate so it can take care of them. That said, you should always keep an eye on them just in case.

Does a Cane Corso Bullmastiff mix get on with cats?

If the introduction is done appropriately, both animals can live together in harmony. Even though it can have a high prey drive, this dog can be taught to cohabitate with anyone willing to compromise.

More dog breed resources

Here are a few other resources that introduce other dog breeds you may be interested in or haven’t heard of yet.

You can find a lot more information on other dog breeds on our site Dogisa!

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