Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix: Complete Guide

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix

My friend often describes her Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix as a gentle giant that loves to purr when being petted or hugged. However, she wishes there were tips and tricks she knew about this crossbreed before owning one. In this article, we’ll share everything you need to know about the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix. Let’s get started!

What is a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?

A Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is, as the name suggests, a Cane Corso mixed with Bullmastiff— two large and powerful dog breeds. 

The Cane Corso belongs to an ancient lineage of warrior dogs famous for their intimidating appearance and excellent guarding skills. The name “Cane Corso” roughly translates to “bodyguard.”

The Bullmastiff originated from English Mastiffs and Bulldogs. Although this dog was a result of crossbreeding, it has been around long enough to be considered a pure breed; even the AKC accepts them now. The original purpose of this dog was warding off intruders and subduing poachers. 

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is not much different from its parents. Both the Cane Corso and the Bullmastiff have similar personalities, size, and build. Although this breed is sometimes called a Cane Corso and Mastiff mix, that name belongs to another dog: a cross between a pure Mastiff and a Cane Corso. A Cane Corso Mastiff mix is also called an English Mastiff and Cane Corso mix.

What are the similarities and differences between Cane Corso and Bullmastiff?

mastiff mix cane corso
Bullmastiff Mix Cane Corso getting treats from owner

The Cane Corso and the Bullmastiff aren’t much different from each other. In fact, another name for the Cane Corso is the Italian Mastiff. Both dogs belong to the Molossian family and originated in Europe.

Let’s check out some of the similarities and differences side by side.

Cane CorsoBullmastiff
Size groupLarge dogsLarge dogs
HeightMales: 24 to 27 inches
Females: 23 to 25 inches
Males: 25 to 27 inches
Females: 24 to 26 inches
WeightMales: 99 to 110 pounds
Females: 88 to 99 pounds
Males: 110 to 130 pounds
Females: 100 to 120 pounds
OriginItalyBritain
TemperamentLoyal, calm, braveAlert, loyal, protective, calm, brave
GroomingVery easyEasy
SheddingModerateModerate
CoatShortShort
ColorBrindle, fawn, red, grey, black, chestnutBrindle, fawn, red
AffectionLove their human familyLove their human family
BarkingMinimalMinimal
Owner experienceRequire experienced ownersRequire experienced owners
PurposeWorking dogWorking dog
PurityPurebredPurebred
AKC RecognitionYesYes
Weather preferencePrefers warm and mild coldAverage to cold
DroolingHighHigh
HealthVery healthyVery healthy
Lifespan9 to 11 years8 to 10 years
Energy levelHighLow
Recommended pregnancies per year11
Average litter size58
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Fully grown Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix

Weighing well over 100 pounds and standing over 2 feet tall at the shoulders, the Cane Corso and the Bullmastiff are both giant dogs. A Cane Corso and Bullmastiff mix inherits the gigantic body of its parents.

A fully grown Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix typically weighs around 90 to 130 pounds, with some getting as heavy as 160 pounds. These dogs have a solid, muscular build and are 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulders. Female Cane Corso Bullmastiffs are a few pounds lighter and a couple of inches shorter than males.

As you can guess, these enormous dogs would need plenty of living space. Having them as pets in a small apartment in the city would be a terrible idea. The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will be uneasy in such a cramped space, and they will also be very clumsy—like a bull in a china shop!

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix puppies

cane corso bullmastiff
Bullmastiff Cane Corso Mix puppy

A Bullmastiff Cane Corso mix puppy doesn’t leave its mom until it is over two months old. Taking away a Cane Corso Bullmastiff pup too early will give them separation anxiety and behavioral issues for life.

These puppies grow rapidly. A 6-month-old Bullmastiff Cane Corso mix puppy weighs around 60 pounds— bigger than many adult dogs. These dogs have insanely powerful jaws, and during teething, they will chew on almost anything.

Expect to lose some of your chewable personal belongings to a Bullmastiff Cane Corso Mix puppy.

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix temperament

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is an excellent guard dog due to its alert and protective nature. These dogs are highly territorial and don’t like other dogs or humans intruding where they live. 

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is a calm and quiet dog and doesn’t bark too much. These dogs are highly devoted to their owners, but they don’t make friends with other humans. 

Avoid having another small pet at home with these dogs around; the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix loves chasing after and hunting down animals due to their high prey drive instinct.

The loyalty and courage of the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix come from their ancestors’ excellent abilities as warriors, guards, and hunters.

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix health issues

Although crossbred dogs are generally healthier than purebred dogs, they are not 100% immune to congenital diseases. The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix isn’t much different. This type of dog is also prone to several health issues. But these problems aren’t specific to this breed, and they can occur in any dog.

Some typical Bullmastiff Cane Corso health issues are:

1. Food allergies

Food allergies are unpredictable, and any dog can have an allergy to any random food item. If you’ve just brought home a Cane Corso Bullmastiff mix puppy, you may not know what kind of allergies they have. 

To avoid your canine friend having an adverse reaction to any ingredient, feed him a new diet in tiny quantities and observe how his body reacts. If they seem fine, you may consider that food safe.

Certain ingredients are known allergens; some of them are frequently used in dog food. So, make sure to be extra careful when giving your dog any food containing such an ingredient.

2. Bloating

Bloating is a painful and potentially harmful ailment in which the dog’s belly gets filled with gas or fluid. It can also cause gastric torsion: a severe condition in which the dog’s stomach twists in on itself. Gastric torsion requires surgical treatment.

Another name for bloating is Gastric dilatation-volvulus or GDV. This condition can be unpredictable and hard to catch.

Some symptoms of bloating include general discomfort, stiff belly, rapid breathing, and excessive drooling. Unfortunately, the Cane Corso Bullmastiff is already a heavy drooler, making bloat identification more challenging.

Fun Fact: When dogs eat too much Brussel Sprouts, it can cause bloating and lots of gas as well. Check out Can Dogs Eat Brussel Sprouts? to find out how much of this healthy vegetable your pooch can have.

3. Hypothyroidism

Dogs are more susceptible to hypothyroidism than other animals. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland decreases its production of a hormone responsible for controlling metabolism. This hormone is called thyroxine and helps determine how much food gets turned into fuel for the body.

Hypothyroidism is marked by a decrease in appetite and weight gain, followed by hair loss, infections, skin dullness, and even seizures. Luckily, hypothyroidism is easy and inexpensive to treat, and many Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix make a full recovery.

4. Joint dysplasia

Large dogs are prone to joint diseases, and a large and heavy dog like the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is no stranger to elbow and hip dysplasia. This condition occurs due to imbalanced growth of the joint ball and sockets. This malformation results in loose hip and elbow joints and can lead to arthritis.

This condition develops during puppyhood but doesn’t become a problem until the dog is older. Puppyhood obesity is the leading cause of poor joint formation. Owners often find chubby puppies adorable and think overfeeding them will make them grow big.

But in truth, the owners are subjecting them to a life of pain.

5. Skin allergies

Food allergies don’t just mess up a dog’s digestive system, they also cause irritation and rash on their skin. Other causes of skin allergies include environmental elements — such as pollen, mold, and dust — and dermatitis caused by fleas.

Not every Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix would be allergic to these elements, but allergies do exist in dogs, which is why you should always have complete knowledge of what your dog is allergic to.

If you are not sure, we highly recommend that you bring your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix to the vet. The vet will perform a physical examination as well as blood work and other appropriate exams to test for skin allergies.

6. Eye issues

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is also prone to several eye conditions that can lead to infection and even loss of sight in the affected eye. Common eye issues include Glaucoma, Cataracts, Entropion, and Cherry eye.

Cataracts occur in older dogs and happen when the lens starts becoming opaque. Glaucoma is a painful infection of the eye that can lead to swelling and blindness. Cherry eye is when the third eyelid swells up and causes redness and irritation. Lastly, Entropion is when an eyelid curls and grows inwards, rubbing against the eye and causing severe pain.

You may be interested in: How To Soften Dog Eye Boogers?

7. Demodex mange

Demodex mange is another common health issue in Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix. This mange occurs when the population of demodectic mites—a parasite naturally present on the dog’s skin—grows out of control due to a weak immune system.

Demodex mange produces bald patches and uneven skin on the dog’s body. It usually starts on the affected dog’s lips, head, and legs before spreading to other body parts. Demodex mange isn’t infectious and is pretty easy to treat through oral medicines.

8. Ear issues

Poor hygiene can put your dog at risk of developing ear issues. An excessive wax buildup in the ears traps humidity and gives pesky bacteria ideal conditions to prosper. The ear area is also warm, making it perfect for all kinds of infections to thrive.

An ear infection is indicated by a distinct smell and the presence of red sores on the dog’s ears. This infection can spread and possibly reach the inner ear, causing the dog to lose its sense of balance and start circling.

9. Torn knee ligaments

Heavy and active dogs like the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix shouldn’t engage in activities that put excessive stress on their joints and ligaments. Some overweight dogs can fall victim to tears and injuries in their knees, requiring surgery.

Keeping your dog’s weight in check should be your top priority. It would be best if you also avoid activities that put a torsional load on your Cane Corso Bullmastiff’s knees, particularly during their senior years.

10. Cancer

Cancers of the skin and lymph nodes are prevalent among Bullmastiffs, and the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix inherits this susceptibility as well. These dogs usually develop cancer during their early years, unlike other dogs who experience it in their senior years.

Cancer is dangerous, but catching it early can prevent your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix from a grim fate. Always be on the lookout for any unusual growth or infection on your dog’s body. Surgery can get rid of some cancers, whereas some cases require chemotherapy.

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix diet

Your Cane Corso Bullmastiff needs high-quality dog food primarily consisting of protein. Carbs are ok in small quantities, but avoid fats as much as possible.

These dogs should stay lean during puppyhood. Feeding them too little will stunt their growth, whereas overfeeding them will cause disproportionate growth, leading to joint dysplasia and obesity. 

The exact number of calories your Cane Corso Bullmastiff needs depends on its age, gender, and weight. Consult with your vet to know the ideal food quantity for your dog.

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix exercise requirement

These big dogs are chock-full of energy, and they require both physical and mental stimulation daily. The ancestors of Cane Corso and Bullmastiffs were warriors, hunters, and chasers, so it’s natural for the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix to be highly dynamic.

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix requires at least two hours of exercise each day. The playtime has to stimulate their bodies and minds enough so that they can stay calm for the rest of the day. During playtime, allow them to roam freely, run around, and discover stuff on their own, if possible.

Many owners will allow their Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix to roam freely in the backyard with the help of Wireless Dog Fences to keep their furry friends safe and prevent them from escaping.

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Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix weight

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is a huge dog. Fully grown, this gentle giant can weigh 90 to 130 pounds easily. However, depending on the parentage, some Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix can grow as heavy as 160 pounds!

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix training

Training your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is tricky. Although these dogs are intelligent and eager to please, they tend to get bored and tired quickly. So, if you’re trying to teach one command over and over, your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix may grow bored and move to something else. 

It’s best to train your Cane Corso Bullmastiff for 2 hours or less per day. Make sure your pooch isn’t high on energy when you do that, but not too tired either. A hyperactive Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will be very challenging to train. Keep a firm attitude and reward them appropriately for the best results. 

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix socialization

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is a reserved dog breed that usually doesn’t like to mingle with other dogs. Both the Cane Corso and the Bullmastiff are loyal to their family, highly territorial, and alert dogs that are protective of their owner. 

Training and early socialization can help your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix to behave nicely around other dogs. However, his bodyguard instincts won’t allow him to be friendly to strangers. If you’re having friends over, don’t expect your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix to be very hospitable.

Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix grooming needs

The Cane Corso is a fairly low shedder, and a Bullmastiff sheds moderately. This makes Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix a low shedder and needs moderate-to-low grooming. Some Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix, however, suffer from abnormally high shedding, especially during spring and fall seasons. 

General hygiene is also essential for this big dog. Clean their teeth daily and watch out for any wax buildup in their ears. It would be best if you also keep their nails clipped or filed down, or they’ll have a hard time walking around.

RELATED: Best Dog Nail Grinders – Reviews and Comparison

Bathing them once a month is enough. However, when you do bathe your pooch, make sure to use dog-friendly shampoos to keep their skin and coat moisturized and healthy.

How much do Bullmastiff Cane Corso Mix cost?

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff isn’t a costly dog, and you can find plenty of sellers online. If you want, you can opt for a high-end breeder to make sure you get the best and healthiest pup possible. However, high-end breeders may ask for a price that averages around $1,000 to $2,000.

Some rare coat colors and bloodlines can cost even higher.

These dogs aren’t exceptionally rare, though, and you shouldn’t have much trouble finding one. You can also adopt Cane Corso Mastiff puppies for a much lower price — maybe even free.

Are Italian Mastiffs and Cane Corso the same dog breed?

Have you ever seen a Cane Corso Italian Mastiff Mix? You probably have. The Cane Corso and the Italian Bullmastiff are the same dog, and a Cane Corso Italian Mastiff mix would be a purebred Cane Corso.

A Cane Corso Italian Bull Mastiff is just another name for a Cane Corso Bullmastiff. So, if you ever come across a dog labeled as a Cane Corso Italian Bullmastiff, you can assume it’s just a regular Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix.

English Mastiff Mixed with Cane Corso

As we’ve discussed above, the Bullmastiff was bred from Bulldogs and Mastiffs in 18th century England, making English Mastiffs the ancestors of the Bullmastiffs. 

The English Mastiff is another giant dog, reaching over 32 inches tall and tipping the scales at 220 pounds. A Cane Corso English Mastiff mix isn’t a cross you see too often, but we assume it will be larger than a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix.

Cane Corso French Mastiff Mix

The French Mastiff, or Dogue de Bordeaux, is one of the oldest French dog breeds. Another member of the Mastiff family, this dog isn’t any smaller than its cousins. 

A French Mastiff mixed with Cane Corso would have a wrinkly face. A Cane Corso and French Mastiff mix has the same loyal and loving nature; however, they may not mix well with other dogs.

Is the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix right for me?

If you’re a new dog owner and have no previous experience with large dog breeds, then this dog will be a nightmare to handle. These giants are gentle, but they need to know you’re the alpha, and you can’t do that unless you have experience dealing with big dogs.

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix also needs plenty of living space due to its size, so go for a toy dog if you live in a small apartment or house in the city. You should also be able to handle their exercise needs, so make sure your lifestyle is active enough for them.

The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is not a dog for newbies, but if you think you can handle these massive canines and can commit to their physical, mental, and emotional needs, the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is one of the best dogs you can get.

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The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Resources:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/277046051_Body_measurements_and_morphological_evaluation_of_Italian_Cane_Corso

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/cane-corso/

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