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You are here: Home / Breeds / Mix / Cane Corso Pitbull Mix – What Do You Need To Know About This Cross?

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix – What Do You Need To Know About This Cross?

February 12, 2019 By Happy Puppy Team 25 Comments

Cane Corso Pitbull mix

Are you thinking of bringing home a Cane Corso Pitbull mix?

This confident cross is derived from the rare Cane Corso breed and the notorious Pitbull.

Cane Corso Pitbulls are exceptionally strong and can make exceedingly loyal pets.

But can you guarantee a family friendly puppy from this unusual cross?

And is it the right dog for you?

Where Does the Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Come From?

The Cane Corso breed is originally of Italian descent.

However, when the Cane Corso came to the United States, its DNA structure altered significantly.

In the United States population, Cane Corsos were found to share DNA similar variations to Rottweilers and Mastiffs.

In the Italian population of Cane Corsos this was not the case.

The Pitbull is claimed to have been first developed from a powerful mix of breeds in Peru.

More about Pitbulls:

  • The Red Nose Pitbull
  • The Blue Nose Pitbull

The original “Peruvian Pitbull” ceased to be raised in 1964, but a note from the Peruvian department of La Libertad reports that the canine was developed there in 1944.

The original Peruvian Pitbull is now extinct. Modern Pitbulls of this variation are not recognized as their own breed by the AKC.

There aren’t any clear documents on when these two breeds were first combined, but it is likely to have been a very recent development.

This makes it all the harder to give a firm description of this cross, as we simply haven’t seen many examples of it yet.

Cane Corso Pitbull mix

Fun Facts About the Cane Corso Pitbull Mix

Because of their exceptional strength from both parent breeds, Cane Corso Pitbulls make excellent sled dogs!

Congruent with other members of the working breed class, Cane Corso Pitbull mixes are also adept at guarding property and performing rescues.

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Appearance

The Cane Corso Pitbull mix, like its parent breeds, is a short-haired canine and tends to grow very large and very strong.

Some males may become extremely muscular, although this is not all that common.

Expect an adult weight of between 70 and 115 pounds.

Coloring varies based on the coloring of parents and parental ancestry. Shades of brown and gray and brindle coloring seem to be common among this breed.

Based on the statistics of both parent breeds, the adult height of a Cane Corso Pitbull mix will fall between 22 and 28 inches.

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Temperament

The Cane Corso Pitbull is eager to please but also quick to defend.

Both Cane Corsos and Pitbulls have a history of attacking other animals as well as people.

Fortunately, these natural tendencies toward hunting and fighting can be potentially be combatted if the owner is committed to proper ongoing training and early socialization.

It is important to only use positive reinforcement techniques with breeds which are prone to guarding and aggressive behavior.

Puppies that receive this training and socialization right away are more likely to make loving family dogs and trustworthy companions.

However, this is not an ideal breed combination for a novice owner or someone with small children.

Training Your Cane Corso Pitbull Mix

The most important element of training a Cane Corso Pitbull is socialization.

When these dogs are not appropriately socialized, they, like their parent breeds, can become aggressive towards other dogs and potentially children.

For training guidance, refer to our extensive list of lessons and exercises.

Proper training is especially important in the Cane Corso Pitbull mix because of their size and strength.

For tips on potty training a Cane Corso puppy, check out our puppy potty training schedule!

Exercise

Both Pitbulls and Cane Corsos are agile and energetic breeds that require daily activity.

This is also a great time to bond through training.

Cane Corso Pitbulls can swim, although it is not uncommon for either of the parent breeds to be averse to it.

The sooner you introduce your Cane Corso Pitbull to water the better to encourage a healthy aquatic relationship.

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Health

When you buy a mixed breed puppy, it might inherit health conditions from either parent.

It is therefore still important to choose a breeder that fully health tests both parents for conditions relevant to their individual breed, even if there is not a crossover in that particular condition.

As a rare breed, the Cane Corso has a smaller gene pool than more common dogs. So it’s important to look at the co-efficient of inbreeding of this parent.

Fortunately, the potential impact of this may be reduced somewhat by being a cross.

Other potential issues that responsible breeders screen for are hip dysplasia, idiopathic epilepsy, demodex mange, and eyelid abnormalities.

Pitbulls are generally healthy, again with proper screening, although they may become susceptible to allergies in adulthood.

For a Cane Corso Pitbull mix, expect a lifespan of around 11 years.

The primary health concern with the Cane Corso Pitbull mix is bloat, an affliction that can suddenly strike a healthy dog with no known cause.

Bloat is more likely to affect exceedingly muscular and wide-chested dogs and can quickly become fatal. Know the signs so that you can admit your dog to the vet as soon as it occurs.

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The recommended health tests for a Cane Corso from the National Breed Club are a hip evaluation, elbow evaluation, and a cardiac exam.

Screening for problems early on ensures the prompt treatment of any diagnosis, effectively preventing attrition and any pending decline in overall health.

Care

The grooming needs of a Cane Corso Pitbull vary by the time of year.

During shedding season in the spring, brush daily with a medium-bristle brush and rubber grooming mitt. During the rest of the year, weekly brushing is sufficient.

Your dog’s diet should be proportionate to its age and weight.

Both Cane Corsos and Pitbulls can become prone to overeating, so be sure to portion food appropriately by age and abstain from offering too many treats, which contribute to obesity.

Do Cane Corso Pitbull Mixes Make Good Family Dogs?

Considering the natural defiance and potential aggression of the parent breeds, a Cane Corso Pitbull may not be the greatest addition to a family home.

The brute strength of the animals may also come into play as a problem with children present.

If adopting this breed is of importance to your family, adopting from a puppy and enrolling into training immediately is ideal.

Adopting an adult rescue Cane Corso Pitbull into a family home is not ideal, as the background of the animal and potential traumas that may lead to aggression remain unknown.

Rescuing a Cane Corso Pitbull Mix

When rescuing a Cane Corso Pitbull mix, note that the animal’s background is unknown.

It is common for rescue dogs to have experienced past traumas that influence present behavior.

In canines with aggressive tendencies in their lineage, the effect of these traumas might be severe.

If you wish to rescue a Cane Corso Pitbull, consider the other members of your family first.

A rescue of this breed is a considerably higher risk to children than most breeds.

Raising children may also take up your time to train the animal, which is essential to maintaining the safety of your family and your Cane Corso Pitbull mix.

A rescued Cane Corso Pitbull mix would be best suited to a single person or childless couple who have the time to sufficiently train, socialize, and exercise the dog.

Finding a Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Puppy

Finding a rare breed is tricky. Encountering a rare breed mix is even harder.

If your heart is set on this cross, you might have a long wait for a breeder that has fully health tested their dogs.

It is very important that you meet both parents, too. This will almost always involve travelling to two sites.

Due to the potential for aggression from each breed, make sure you see for yourself that they are relaxed around strangers and of a friendly disposition.

Don’t forget to confirm the credentials of any potential breeders you interact with.

A certified breeder should want to perform a background check on you to ensure the puppy is going to a good home.

Avoid puppy mills and pet stores when purchasing a new puppy.

A credible source should not have a mass of animals available for purchase at one time.

If you can, tour the premises before purchasing. Don’t hesitate to report any concerns to your local animal protection.

Raising A Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Puppy

Raising a Cane Corso Pitbull mix puppy requires significant time and dedication relative to other more docile breeds.

   

Fortunately, both parent breeds are highly intelligent and take quickly to learning.

Refer to our puppy care and training guides for all of the info you’ll need while training your new Cane Corso Pitbull pup.

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Products and Accessories

Cane Corso Pitbull mixes will do well on the same high quality food recommended for purebred Cane Corsos.

For puppy food recommendations, refer to our analysis of the best food for a Cane Corso puppy dog.

As an exceedingly energetic breed, the Cane Corso Pitbull mix enjoys a wide selection of toys.

It is important to select toys that will not present a choking hazard. For ideas, have a look at the best toys for Pitbulls from puppies to adults.

Pros and Cons of Getting A Cane Corso Pitbull Mix

Choosing a Cane Corso Pitbull mix over another breed may mean increased risk of aggression. Your pet will require a significant amount of training and socializing time to achieve proper and reliable behavior.

This breed is not recommended as a family animal.

On the plus side, Cane Corso Pitbulls are loyal and extremely intelligent. They can be trained to work with you, hunt and herd other animals, and rescue those in distress.

They are also often affectionate and eager to please their owners.

Similar Cane Corso Pitbull Mixes and Breeds

For similar breeds, check out these as alternatives to the Cane Corso Pitbull:

  • Rottweiler
  • German Shepherd
  • Belgian Malinois
  • Pitbull Lab Mix

Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Rescues

Below is a list of rescues for Cane Corsos, Pitbulls, and mixes of these breeds.

Please add to this list in the comments below to help others find the perfect Cane Corso Pitbull mix rescue.

  • Must Love Corsos Rescue
  • Cane Corso Rescue Inc
  • Red Rock Canyon Cane Corso
  • Bobbie’s Pitbull Rescue & Sanctuary
  • Prairie Pitbull Rescue
  • All Bullie Rescue

Is a Cane Corso Pitbull Mix Right For Me?

If you are a single individual or childless couple with plenty of experience in socialization and positive reinforcement dog training, a Cane Corso Pitbull mix could be a good fit.

If you have children at home, you may want to consider another more family-oriented breed or ensure you purchase a Cane Corso Pitbull puppy and not a rescue.

The most important deciding factor should be the amount of time you are able to commit to training and socializing your Cane Corso Pitbull.

References and Resources

American Kennel Club.
Bell, J., Cavanagh, K., Tilley, L. Veterinary Medical Guide to Dog and Cat Breeds. Tenton NewMedia 2012.
Cossios, E. D. The Peruvian Pitbull: an extinct dog breed. Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos 2018.
Parker, H. G., Dreger, D. L., Rimbault, M., Davis, B. W., Mullen, A. B., Carpintero-Ramirez, G. and Ostrander, E. A. Genomic Analyses Reveal the Influence of Geographic Origin, Migration, and Hybridization on Modern Dog Breed Development. Cell Press Cell Reports 2017.

 

Comments

  1. Jasmyne R Baker says

    January 19, 2021 at 05:53

    I’m looking to train my corso pit mix. He is a out 4 months old. I do have small children. We love him so much and he loves me. He does ok with my small children ad we use a lot of positive reinforcements. I do though need tips. He does not answer to his name. He is a bit of a wild puppy. How do I get him to answer to his name?

    Reply
    • Meg Austwick says

      January 19, 2021 at 08:16

      Hi Jasmyne, you may be interested in taking a look at our online puppy training courses.

      Reply
  2. Donna hillesland says

    October 11, 2020 at 07:39

    I am getting a cane Corso and a Minnie pit mixed Need info on this breed

    Reply
  3. TERESSA Bryant says

    July 12, 2020 at 15:42

    My Boyfriend is getting a Cane Corso/ Pit Terrier how can I put my fear aside around these puppies

    Reply
    • Susan Griffiths says

      January 27, 2021 at 02:47

      I got my Cane Corso/Pitbull puppy at 10 weeks. Rudy lived to be 13 yrs old. I miss him terribly. He was the gentlest dog I ever had. He didn’t bark and was never aggressive. I socialized him from the beginning and the worst habit he ever had was swallowing a dead robin whole when I tried to get it away from him. He weighed 110 pounds. HIs joints were a problem. Shoulder surgery at 10 months and a knee surgery at 1 yr and 10 months. I walked him only on leash after that on the advice of my vet. Just make sure you socialize him and train him very young. I wish I had avoided letting him run when he was young. He grew very quickly!

      Reply
  4. Justin C Crossen says

    March 24, 2020 at 02:22

    I just got a female mix corso and pit at 7 weeks old, I want to have her trained to be a service animal to help me and my daughter with autism and these breeds are loyal and very protective dogs which I want I trust my dogs as they trust us. How much do the mix puppies go for if when she is older and has some?

    Reply
  5. Steve S. says

    February 17, 2020 at 19:09

    Anyone have cane/pit puppies? Contact me if their up for sale, thank you!

    Reply
  6. DAVID MONE says

    December 27, 2019 at 09:23

    I just got a corso pitbull mix the pit side is actually from the hulks bloodline koby grand daughter. I have a female so far she is great mature maybe is because I have a jackrusslle that is 6 years old she respects him a great deal but she shows no fear infact she pushes his buttons she is now going on 8 weeks. I must say she is lovely does have a lot of strenth as a pup she moves my other dogs bed with him in it. Lovely thing is she stomps both her paws and slightly barks to show she has no fear. She has been spending time.with my neighbors dog witch is a half shitzu and chiwwawa. She is full of energy and keeps my corso/pit active and plays with her so much. If she is in her aprtment my corso/pits wines by her door till she is able to meet up with her again. So far so good with this breed. I left my email for anyone that is interested in learning more about her as she grows I am willing to send pics and videos. Also.as her feeding I started a raw meat diet with meat fruits and veggies and I’ve been feeding it to my lack as well and the shitzu. This is not my jackrusslle first time around a corso. So please feel free to contact me if anyone wants to know more. Happy holidays

    Reply
    • Oz says

      January 12, 2020 at 05:58

      I just got 2 females..12 weeks old now..very clever girls. I can see agression though..can you send me some pictures of yours please.

      Reply
    • Michelle says

      April 14, 2020 at 16:57

      Hi David I would love some more information on the food you prepare for your dog. As my Cane Corso is having a lot of allergies to dog food and she is on a grain free food.

      Reply
      • Andreas W Goodman says

        October 24, 2020 at 13:50

        Do you happen to know alot about these corso/pit mix. I have one his 3.5 now 130 + lbs and I was looking for more answer about them.

        Reply
  7. DiAne says

    December 16, 2019 at 03:36

    My son just got a 5 month old grey cane Corso pit. I have the paperwork from shelter that She was adopted at 8 weeks old her name was nala and it got changed to Zoey. We are in NJ and I would like to know more about her history and any siblings. Does anyone on this site have puppies that were born around July 13 2019? This site is amazing as I learned a lot about these dogs.

    Reply
    • Loren says

      January 20, 2020 at 00:19

      I’m bourt have half am bulldog scout blood line and 25% cane Corso and 25%am pitbull terrier
      See

      Reply
    • Anessa says

      October 8, 2020 at 06:02

      YES!!! I believe I have every piece of information you are looking for!! Unless this is a huuuge coincidence, BUT I pray it’s not!!! I also live in NJ, I have the sibling to
      “Nala” AKA ZOEY!!!
      I pray you see this reply, I’ve been trying to get my response posted for weeks!

      Reply
      • Andy goodman says

        October 24, 2020 at 13:52

        Do you have any info on corso/mix

        Reply
  8. Tina says

    August 19, 2019 at 03:32

    Does anyone know how much they run? We have a blue pit and blue cane corso, both on papers, that we did not plan on mating but things happen! ;0) we are now a few days away from 9 puppies!

    Reply
    • Trap says

      October 24, 2019 at 18:18

      $1000 to $2500 depends on coloration.. Blues, which is rare… Sometimes even more.

      Reply
      • Rockgin says

        November 21, 2019 at 16:53

        No chance. At the end of the day, it’s a mix/mutt and there isn’t a long history of strategic breeding to establish and define a “breed standard” in regards to build, aesthetics, and most of all, temperament. In my opinion, the temperament when crossing these breeds (who have very different temperaments), is completely unknowable…which is a negative for a potential buyer/adopter of pups. Seeing a Cane Corso pup, with documented lineage, can fetch $1000 and much more AND highly glamorized pitbull breeds these days can also command a high price, though many don’t look anything like the original or AKC recognized breed standard. But again, a mix (IMO) does not and should not command a high price because there truly isn’t a breed standard and pups would only sell if there is a strong emotional connection with a buyer…regardless of the breed mix. And…I have an 80lb, brindle, Cane Corso/Pitbull mix and he’s amazing looking, incredible build, incredibly intelligent, protective, great sense of humor, with about a 30/70 pit/corso personality…he’d make a great breed standard 🙂

        Reply
    • Diane says

      December 16, 2019 at 03:39

      Do you still have any left?

      Reply
  9. William Benjamin says

    June 2, 2019 at 21:04

    We own one got him as a puppy took him around people and children he is two and well behaved but will not let strangers near the grandkids or on the property he is 110 lbs of joy thinking about getting another one they are very smart

    Reply
    • Lizbelle says

      July 18, 2019 at 03:50

      Well if u do decide on another one. I have some. Lol. My female surprised us with a litter of 11. First time and vet said maybe 3 to 6. I think she was a little off. Lmao.

      Reply
      • Rebecca Van Fossan says

        October 18, 2019 at 21:53

        We just lost our lil girl. Rescued as “bill mastimastiff /boxer mix, but after receiving dna results 50% cane corso, 40% American bulldog and 10% bull mastiff. She was an amazing girl. The best dog anyone could ever have. She pretty much loved everyone. Your puppies are already probaby already adopted, but if not, please let me know.

        Reply
      • Diane says

        December 16, 2019 at 03:42

        Do you have any left?

        Reply
  10. Iwalani Meyer says

    March 3, 2019 at 07:58

    I am amazed on how much facts and truth I own one and he is 9mths …and already heading to 87pds.. …but he is my baby and loyal

    Reply
  11. Keaton says

    February 14, 2019 at 01:57

    I own a pitbull cane corso and this Is 100% true every bit of it

    Reply

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