If you are looking for a large dog breed that is loyal, strong, active, and will also guard your home, then consider adopting the American Pit Corso dog. Wondering what kind of a dog breed is that. It is a designer breed that was created by crossing two purebred dogs – the Cane Corso and the American Pit Bull Terrier. The dog breed created as a result of Cane Corso mixed with Pitbull is large and imposing looking. They are also powerful, athletic, and highly protective of their family. But don’t feel intimidated by their size. They may be huge but cane corso mixed with pitbull are actually gentle giants who are loyal and affectionate with their owners. Dive in to learn more about this amazing dog breed.
A brief history of the Breed:
The American Pit Corso dog also known as the cane corso pit mix is a hybrid of the Cane Corso and American Pitbull Terrier. There are no known records of when the breed first came into existence or who first developed the breed. So they have no history as such and they are not yet recognised by any kennel clubs. But both their parent breeds are quite well known and have an interesting history.
The Cane Corso, a variant of the mastiff dog originated in Italy as a guard dog and hunter. It is thought that these dogs have descended from an ancient dog breed called the Molossus, dating back to ancient Greece. The ancient Romans discovered the breed and brought it home with them. They worked as guard dogs and hunting companions. Apart from that, the Romans also trained the breed to fight in wars with them. But it was thought that the Cane Corso has become extinct by the 1900s. But the breed was brought back by Italian Corso lovers.
The American Pitbull Terrier descended from bulldogs and terriers brought to the United States by immigrants in the 19th century. Pit bulls and terriers were crossed with each other to create American Pitbull Terrier. They were bred to be working dogs and performed a variety of tasks like guarding property, herding livestock, and helping during hunts. The American Pitbull were also loyal family companions but they were used for bull-baiting and dog fighting. As a result, the breed earned an unfair reputation for being too aggressive.
The breed resulting from Cane Corso mixed with a pitbull is commonly known as the American Pit Corso dog or pitbull cane corso mix. But depending on which type of Pitbull was bred with the cane corso they are also referred to by other names. For instance, if the Cane Corso is bred with American Bully, then the resulting litter of puppies will be known as Cane Corso American Bully Mix. In some cases, the Cane Corso may be bred with another hybrid like a pitbull mixed with a bully. Hence, you should opt for a reputable breeder if you want Cane Corso mixed with American Pitbull Terrier.
American Pit Corso Dog: Breed Overview
If you’re looking for a loyal companion that will also help you guard the house, then Cane corso mixed with pitbull could be a great choice. A brief overview of the breed has been given below.
Appearance and Size
American Pit Corso dog is a large, powerful breed that grows up to 24-28 inches tall. It has a broad head and neck and a stocky, muscular build and can weight around 70-110 lbs. They have floppy ears and tails that e Their coat is typically short, dense, and can come in a variety of colors like black, gray, fawn, and brindle. However, American Pit Corso pups that take after their Pitbull parent may have some unique coat colors. This is because the coat of a pitbull comes in a variety of colors. So if your American Pit Corso pup has a light gray, white, or blue coat color, it is probably because its parents are cane corso mixed with blue nose pitbull.
Lifespan and health issues
The Cane Corso Pitbull mix, also known as the American Pit Corso, is a large, powerful dog that can live 10-12 years. Due to their size and strength, health issues are a concern for this hybrid breed. Be on the lookout for these potential health problems:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
- Skin Allergies
- Eye Issues
- Bloat
- Heart Disease
Elbow and hip dysplasia:
This is a condition that affects the development and function of the elbow or hip joints, causing pain, stiffness, and arthritis. It can result from genetic or environmental factors, such as obesity, injury, or overexertion. Elbow and hip dysplasia are common in many large dog breeds, such as Cane Corsos and Pitbulls12.
Bloat or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV):
This is a condition that causes the stomach to twist and fill with gas, preventing blood flow and causing shock. It can result from eating too fast, too much, or too soon after exercise, or from stress, genetics, or anatomy. Bloat is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention123.
Cataracts:
This is a condition that causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy, impairing vision and leading to blindness. It can result from aging, injury, infection, diabetes, or genetics. Cataracts can be treated surgically or medically, depending on the severity and cause12.
Cherry eye:
This is a condition that causes the third eyelid gland to protrude and become inflamed, resulting in a red, swollen, and irritated eye. It can result from infection, injury, genetics, or immune system disorders. Cherry eye can be treated surgically or medically, depending on the severity and cause12.
Eyelid issues:
These are conditions that affect the shape, position, or function of the eyelids, causing irritation, infection, or injury to the eye. They include entropion, ectropion, distichiasis, and trichiasis. They can result from genetics, trauma, or inflammation. Eyelid issues can be treated surgically or medically, depending on the severity and cause12.
Demodex mange:
This is a condition that causes hair loss, itching, and skin infections, due to an overgrowth of microscopic mites that live in the hair follicles. It can result from a weak immune system, stress, genetics, or poor hygiene. Demodex mange can be treated with topical or oral medications, depending on the severity and cause123.
Epilepsy:
Epilepsy: This is a condition that causes recurrent seizures, due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can result from unknown causes (idiopathic), or from underlying diseases, such as liver or kidney problems, brain tumors, or infections. Epilepsy can be treated with anti-seizure medications, depending on the frequency and severity of the seizures
By closely monitoring your pitbull and cane corso mixed breed dog for these potential health issues, you can help keep them happy and by your side for years to come. Early detection and proper treatment of any medical conditions will be key to managing them and maintaining your dog’s quality of life. You should also consider adopting an American Pit Corso puppy from responsible breeders. This is because, responsible breeders screen parent dogs for common health conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and allergies.
Temperament
The pitbull and cane corso mix has a temperament that can be described as loyal, protective, and affectionate towards their families. They are intelligent, energetic, and enjoy being around people. However, American Pit Corso dogs have a strong protective instinct and tend to be aloof towards strangers owing to the fact that both their parent’s breeds are used as guard dogs. They also have a moderate to high prey drive as both the parent breeds used to be hunting companions and have a history of attacking other animals. If not properly trained they will chase pets and other animals.
Hence, they need early socialization and training to help curb aggressive tendencies and ensure they behave well around strangers and other dogs. In addition, these pups require daily exercise, play, and mental stimulation to be happy and well-adjusted. Without it, they can become bored, and restless, and develop unwanted behaviors.
This mix breed can make a devoted companion for an active owner. However, they may not be suitable for families with young children or inexperienced owners due to their large size and potential aggression. With proper care and training, the Cane Corso Pitbull can be a gentle, loving, and loyal dog and will thrive in a family environment. But they require an experienced owner who can establish themselves as the leader of the pack.
Training and Exercise
As a mix of two working breeds, the Cane Corso Pitbull also sometimes known as mastiff pitbull cane corso needs plenty of exercise and activity. Aim for at least 60 minutes of exercise per day for an adult dog. Walks, jogs, hikes, fetch, and tug-of-war are all great options. Without enough exercise, these dogs can become restless, bored, and may develop behavioral issues.
Early socialization and training are essential for this mix. Enroll your puppy in an obedience training class as soon as possible, and continue reinforcing training at home. Be patient but firm, and use positive reinforcement techniques like treats, praise, and play. Focus on basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it,” as well as socialization to prevent aggression or fearfulness.
Dietary Requirements
The Cane Corso Pitbull mix has a hearty appetite and needs a high-quality diet to stay healthy and energized. As a large breed, your pit corso should be fed dog food specifically formulated for them to ensure proper growth. Their food should contain animal protein sources as the first ingredient. This includes beef, chicken, or fish.
Their food can contain grains, vegetables, fruits, and carbohydrates but it should not be the primary ingredient. Meat-based protein should make up at least 25-30% of the food. You can also supplement fish oil, probiotics, multivitamins, Glucosamine, and chondroitin to your Pit Corso dog’s diet.
You should also keep a close watch on the food portion size of your adult cane corso and pitbull mix. An adult pit corso will eat 3-5 cups of dry food per day, split into two or three meals. Puppies need more, about 4-6 cups total. Measure portions based on your dog’s age, size, and activity level. It’s best to consult with your vet on an appropriate feeding schedule and amount for your pit corso’s needs.
Feeding your Cane Corso Pitbull mix a nutritious, high-protein diet, providing the right amount of calories for their age and size, and adding certain supplements when needed will help keep your pit corso happy, healthy, and full of energy for many years. Be sure to always have fresh, clean water available for your dog as well.
Grooming
The American Pit Corso dog is a low-maintenance breed. Owing to its heritage as Cane Corso mixed with Pitbull, the breed has a short, dense double coat that is water resistant. They shed their coats throughout the year.
Here are some basic tips that you can follow while grooming your American Pit Corso –
Bathing
The cane corso pit mix doesn’t need a lot of baths. In fact, bathing too frequently can strip the coat of natural oils and dry out their skin. So bathe them once every two to three months or if their coat gets dirty. When you do bathe them, use a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat and skin healthy. Be sure to brush them first to loosen any dead hair and dirt before bathing.
Brushing
Brush your Cane Pit once a week to remove loose hair and distribute oils. Use a slicker brush and undercoat rake to brush through their coat. Pay extra attention to thicker areas like behind the ears, legs, and tail. Regular brushing will minimize shedding around the house and keep their coat shiny and tangle-free.
Nail Trimming
Trim your Cane Pit’s nails once a month or if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use nail clippers made for dogs and cut the nails below the quick, pink area where the blood vessels and nerves are. Be very careful not to cut the quick, as it will bleed and cause pain. If you do cut the quick, have some styptic powder on hand to help clot the bleeding.
Ear Cleaning
Clean your Cane Pit’s ears regularly to remove wax and prevent infection. Use a dog ear cleanser and cotton balls. Apply the cleanser and wipe away any dirt or wax. Never use Q-tips, as these can damage the ear canal. Check their ears once a week for any foul odors or irritation, as this can indicate an infection that requires vet attention.
Keeping up with regular grooming and hygiene is essential to your Cane Corso Pitbull mix’s health, happiness, and bonding with you. Set a consistent routine and check them over each time you groom for any concerning lumps, skin issues, or injuries that need vet care. With regular grooming and care, you’ll keep your Cane Pit clean, comfortable, and looking its best.
American Pit Corso: Cost and Where to Buy
American Pit Corso can be an expensive mix to purchase and maintain. This hybrid breed is considered a designer breed, and therefore not widely available. Hence breeders can charge between $500 to $2,000 or more for a puppy, depending on the breeder’s reputation and the dog’s pedigree. Shelter and rescue organizations may have American Pit Corsos available for a lower adoption fee, around $50 to $500.
When you are searching for a cane corso mixed with pitbull for sale, you should look for a responsible breeder that health tests their breeding dogs to reduce the risk of genetic disorders in the puppies. Ask the breeder about the parent breeds’ temperaments and health clearances. A reputable breeder will be able to provide you details on their puppy’s diet, and health records. When you buy from a reputable breeder, you will also be able to know if the parent breeds are pure or a crossbreed such as bully pitbull mix.
Wrapping Up
So is the Cane Corso mixed with pitbull the right choice for you? The American Pit Corso is loyal and protective and will make a great addition to any family. But they can become overprotective and aggressive if they are not trained and socialized from a young age. Hence they may not be suitable for first-time or inexperienced owners. However, if you can devote the time, patience, and energy required to properly train and socialize one of these pups, then you will have a furry friend for the rest of your life.
So, if you are up for the challenge, start doing your research to find a reputable breeder for the American Pit Corso dog in your area.
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