The Panda Pug, in the eyes of kennel clubs and registries at least, is not an official purebred Pug. It typically comes about as the result of breeding a Pug with another small dog breed, such as a small Spaniel, or a Pekingese, to create a Pug that has similar markings to that of a Panda.
The Panda Pug shares many of the same characteristics and traits as the Pug so it makes a good pet but it does require a lot of attention.
Breed Overview
Height:
10 – 14 inches
Weight:
14 – 18 pounds
Lifespan:
12 – 15 years
Colors:
Black, white
Suitable for:
Owners that want a loving, demanding dog
Temperament:
Loyal, loving, fun
The Panda Pug is a color variant of the Pug that likely came about as a result of mixing a Pug with another breed. It has the physical markings of a Panda, especially with the black and white coat that matches that of a Panda. The breed is intelligent and makes a good pet, but it is not officially recognized by kennel clubs and registries because it does conform to breed standards and because it is not a purebred Pug dog.
The exact history of Panda Pugs remains somewhat unclear, but it is likely that they originated in China in the 1990s when the Pug was bred with the Tibetan Spaniel. The aim of the cross was to create a Pug that had the black and white markings of a Panda. However, as this is not a purebred dog, other breeders have also attempted to create their own Panda Pugs, breeding a Pug with other small breeds to achieve the same result.
How Panda Pugs Gained Popularity
The Panda Pug is still very rare and has not really gained much popularity as yet. There is no doubt that the cross looks cute, combining the features of the Pug with the markings of a Panda, but because it is not purebred and is not accepted by kennel clubs, it has yet to gain popularity with potential owners. The Pug, in general, though, is a very popular breed that is famed for its fun and loving nature. As well as being popular in China, where it originates, the Pug’s popularity has spread throughout the world and it has become one of the most popular companion breeds of dog available.
Formal Recognition of Panda Pugs
Panda Pugs are not formally recognized by kennel clubs or registries, and there are two reasons for this. Firstly, if the Panda Pug markings are naturally occurring, it doesn’t meet the color requirements of the Pug. Black Pugs are accepted and are permitted a small amount of white marking on the paws, but they are not permitted more white than this on their body. But, if the Panda Pug was created by breeding Pugs with other breeds of dog, they are not purebred Pugs and would therefore not be accepted by registries. The breed would have to be bred for many generations before it had a chance of becoming officially recognized.
For now, at least, Panda Pugs remain very rare. Most Pug breeders attempt to ensure their dogs are purebred which means not crossing them with other breeds, even to create appealing markings. Despite this, some breeders do market them as being exotic or rare and put a hefty price tag on them. You can expect to pay up to $1,500 for a Panda Pug if you can find a breeder that sells them.
2. They are Not Usually Purebred Dogs
Because they are not an official breed, very little is really known about Panda Pugs, but it is generally accepted that they came about as a result of breeding Pugs with one or more other breeds of dog to achieve the unique markings. This means that they are not purebred Pugs and it means that they are not accepted by kennel clubs.
3. They Can Do Very Well In Agility Competitions
This isn’t specific to Panda Pugs but Pugs, in general, can do very well in agility classes and courses. Although the breed struggles with respiratory problems as a result of their face and skull shape, they enjoy the challenge of agility. And agility doesn’t necessarily require fast running, so Panda Pugs and other Pugs can do very well in this canine sport discipline.
Pugs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and there is no reason to think that a Panda Pug would be any different, although it may take on some attributes of the other breed used in its inception.
Pugs are small and don’t require a lot of exercise which means that they can live in apartments. This is further supported by the fact that the breed is not typically known for being very vocal. They are also caring and loving, getting along with their humans as well as other people and potentially other animals as well.
There are a couple of potential cons to the Pug breed, though. First is the fact that they are prone to breathing and eye problems because of the shape of their head. Second is the fact that they are quite demanding of time and attention from their humans and can suffer separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Conclusion
Pugs in general make good pets that can be great companions for people of all ages. They are intelligent and so can be trained, don’t require excessive amounts of exercise, and they are loving and attentive. The Panda Pug is a hybrid or mixed breed that combines the Pug with a Tibetan Spaniel or other breed to give the dog the physical markings of a Panda.
Not recognized by kennel clubs or registries, the Panda Pug is a rare dog that has yet to really pique the interest of breeders or owners around the world.
Owning a Mexican Pitbull, also known as a Chamuco, can be an exciting experience for those who are up for the challenge. These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. However, they are also strong-willed and require a firm hand when it comes to training and discipline. It’s important to socialize your Mexican Pitbull from a young age to ensure they do not become too aggressive towards strange people or other dogs (and animals in general). Let’s take a closer look at this breed.
Breed Overview
Height:
18–21 inches
Weight:
25–40 pounds
Lifespan:
8–15 years
Colors:
White, brown, black, gray, and tri-colors
Suitable for:
Active, responsible owners that are willing to train these dogs
Temperament:
Loyal, intelligent, friendly, and active. Natural protective instincts and can be friendly when socialized as pups.
Despite their powerful build, Mexican Pitbulls are not aggressive dogs by nature. They’re friendly and affectionate towards their owners and are known for their loyalty and obedience. They have a playful and curious nature and enjoy spending time with their family. Mexican Pitbulls are also very social and enjoy the company of other dogs.
If you’re in search of a Mexican Pitbull puppy, there are a few places you can look. First, start by checking out local animal shelters and rescue organizations. These organizations often have a variety of breeds, including Pitbulls, and may have a Mexican Pitbull puppy available. Additionally, you can search online for breeders in Mexico who specialize in Pitbulls.
When it comes to the cost of a Mexican Pitbull puppy, it can vary widely depending on the breeder and the specific dog. Typically, a Pitbull puppy can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000, and a Mexican Pitbull may fall on the higher end of that range due to the breed’s rarity.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Mexican Pitbull
Are These Dogs Good for Families?
Mexican Pitbulls have a reputation for being aggressive and dangerous, but this is a misconception. The truth is that Mexican Pitbulls are friendly and affectionate dogs that are great with children and make excellent family pets. They’re also highly intelligent and respond well to training, making them ideal for obedience competitions.
It’s important to start training and socializing your Mexican Pitbull from a young age to ensure that they grow up to be well-behaved and obedient dogs. Mexican Pitbulls can be protective of their family, which can make them wary of strangers. Proper socialization can help them learn to trust and be friendly towards new people.
Mexican Pitbulls are social dogs that enjoy the company of other dogs. However, like all dogs, they require proper socialization to ensure that they get along with other pets. Mexican Pitbulls have a strong prey drive, which means they may be tempted to chase small animals.
So, if you do purchase one of these puppies, be sure to introduce Mexican Pitbulls to other pets slowly and under supervision. They should be taught to interact with other pets in a calm and controlled manner. Mexican Pitbulls that have been properly socialized can get along well with other dogs and even cats.
Things to Know When Owning a Mexican Pitbull:
Food & Diet Requirements
In order to comply with these Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for dog nutrition, you must provide your Pitbull with high-grade canine food made with actual, natural sources of essential nutrients. Meat or poultry (aka protein) should be the main ingredient, with more fat than usual and reduced carbohydrate levels to prevent obesity. Your Pit should get 2 grams of protein per pound of body weight every day to stay healthy.
When considering a diet for your Pitbull, it may be beneficial to chat with your vet about grain-free dog food or other types of food based on individual ingredients. Additionally, fatty acids in the diet can help address any skin problems.
Pitbulls, in some instances, may experience a type of cardiac disorder referred to as aortic stenosis. To maintain the health of your Pitbull’s heart, as well as proper check-up and medicines prescribed by a vet, a nourishing diet is essential.
Exercise
One of the most striking features of Mexican Pitbulls is their muscular build. They have a well-defined, powerful physique that is both impressive and intimidating. Their bodies are lean and agile, making them excellent athletes. They’re also known for their high energy levels and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Mexican Pitbulls aren’t really recommended for apartment living as they need plenty of space to run and play.
These dogs are also known for their high energy levels. They require regular exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, they can become bored and destructive. Mexican Pitbulls are also highly social dogs and enjoy spending time with their family. They can become anxious and stressed if left alone for long periods of time.
Training Mexican Pitbulls while they are puppies is essential for several reasons. First, it helps establish a strong bond between the owner and the dog. Second, it helps in shaping the dog’s behavior and personality. Puppies are like sponges, and they absorb everything in their environment, including learned behaviors.
Therefore, it’s the perfect time to teach them what’s acceptable and what’s not. Training Mexican Pitbulls while they’re puppies also helps in preventing destructive behaviors such as chewing, digging, and excessive barking. Here are some ways to train these young tough pups:
Basic Obedience Training
The first step in training your Mexican Pitbull puppy is basic obedience training. This training will teach your puppy the essential commands, such as sit, stay, come, and heel. These commands will create a foundation for more advanced training in the future.When training your puppy, avoid using punishment or negative reinforcement, as this can create fear and aggression in your puppy. Consistency and repetition are key when training your Mexican Pitbull puppy, so be patient and keep practicing until your puppy has mastered each command.
Crate TrainingCrate training is also an essential part of Pitbull puppy training. Crates provide a safe and secure space for your puppy to rest and sleep, as well as a way to prevent destructive behavior when you’re not home. When crate training your puppy, make the crate a positive and comfortable space, using treats, toys, and blankets to create a cozy environment.Never use the crate as a punishment for unwelcome behavior because it can lead to anxiousness in your pup. Gradually increase the amount of time your puppy spends in the crate, starting with short periods and working your way up to longer periods.
Socialization TrainingSocialization training is critical for Pitbull puppies, as it will help them become well-adjusted and confident around other dogs and humans. Start socializing your puppy from a young age by exposing them to different environments, people, and animals (especially dogs). Use positive reinforcement approaches, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior during socialization. It’s also essential to supervise your puppy during socialization, to ensure their safety and prevent any negative interactions.
Leash TrainingLeash training is an essential part of puppy training for Pits, as it will teach your puppy to walk calmly and obediently on a leash. Start leash training your puppy by introducing them to the collar and leash gradually, using positive reinforcement techniques to reward good behavior. Practice walking your puppy on the leash in a quiet and familiar environment, gradually increasing the distance and distractions.
Advanced Training TechniquesOnce your Pitbull puppy has mastered basic obedience commands, you can move on to more advanced training techniques, such as agility training, trick training, and scent training. These training techniques will provide mental and physical stimulation for your puppy, as well as challenge their intelligence and problem-solving skills. Use positive reward systems such as treats, reassurance and verbal praise, to encourage positive behavior during advanced training.
As with any breed, grooming your Mexican Pitbull not only helps them look and feel their best, but it also has health benefits. Regular grooming can help prevent skin irritations and infections, as well as mats and tangles in their fur. It also allows you to inspect your dog’s skin and coat for any abnormalities or signs of parasites. Here are some tips to groom your Mexican Pitbull the right way.
BathingMexican Pitbulls have short fur, so they don’t need to be bathed as often as other breeds. However, it’s still important to keep them clean and fresh. It’s recommended to bathe your Mexican Pitbull every 4–6 weeks, or as needed if they get particularly dirty.When bathing your Mexican Pitbull, make sure to use a canine shampoo and any anti-flea medication needed. Human shampoo can be too harsh for their skin and cause irritation. Use lukewarm water and avoid getting water and soap in their eyes, nose, and ears. Dry them off with a towel or blow dryer on a low heat setting.
BrushingBrushing your Mexican Pitbull’s fur is essential for maintaining a healthy coat and preventing mats and tangles. It’s recommended to brush your dog at least once a week.Use a brush specifically designed for short-haired breeds, such as a rubber curry brush or a bristle brush. Start at their head and work your way down their body, being gentle around sensitive areas like their belly and legs.
Nail TrimmingRegular nail trimming is important for your Mexican Pitbull’s health and comfort. Overgrown nails can cause pain and difficulty walking. It’s recommended to trim your dog’s nails every 4–6 weeks, or as needed if you hear them clicking on hard surfaces.Use a dog-specific nail clipper and trim the tip of their nail, being careful not to cut the quick (the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels).
Grooming Tools and Products for Mexican Pit Bulls
Having the right grooming tools and products can make a big difference in the quality of your Mexican Pitbull’s grooming experience.
Here are some essentials to have on hand:
Dog-specific shampoo and conditioner
Rubber curry brush or bristle brush
Nail clipper
Styptic powder (to stop bleeding if you accidentally cut the quick)
Ear cleaner
Toothbrush and toothpaste (specifically designed for dogs)
It’s also a good idea to have a grooming table or designated grooming area where you can easily access all your tools and products.
How Often Should You Groom Your Mexican Pitbull?
The frequency of grooming your Mexican Pitbull depends on their individual needs. As mentioned earlier, bathing should be done every 4–6 weeks, brushing at least once a week, and nail trimming every 4–6 weeks.
However, you may need to groom your Mexican Pitbull more frequently if they have a skin condition or are prone to matting. On the other hand, if your Pit spends most of its time indoors and doesn’t get dirty often, you may be able to stretch out the time between baths.
Skin Allergies: Oftentimes skin allergies and other issues will develop from parasites, improper grooming, poor hygiene, or other health issues. Skin allergies can cause itching, redness, and rashes, which can typically be treated with medicated shampoos, antihistamines, and steroids. If you notice your dog excessively licking, scratching, or biting on a certain area, it could be a sign of an allergy or infection, in which case it’s best to do a bit of investigating and call your vet for a consultation.
Ear Infections: These can cause discomfort and pain, and if left untreated, can lead to hearing loss. Regular cleaning and inspection of the ears can help prevent infections, and antibiotics can be prescribed by a veterinarian if necessary.
Dental Issues: Dental issues such as gum disease, tartar buildup, and tooth decay can be prevented by regular brushing and dental checkups. If left untreated, these issues can lead to tooth loss, pain, and infection. It is important to keep a close eye on your Pitbull’s health and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any changes in their behavior, appetite, or overall wellbeing. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper grooming can help keep your Pitbull healthy and happy.
Serious Conditions
Thyroid Disease: Thyroid disease is an ailment that affects the functioning of this endocrine organ. All Pitbulls have a high chance of developing a thyroid issue such as hypothyroidism. This can lead to excess weight and skin troubles due to the thyroid glands not making enough hormones.Behavioral changes, such as fearful aggression, can result from thyroid disease in addition to the physical symptoms. The vet will run blood tests to determine if your Pitbull has thyroid disease. The pooch might require regular intake of thyroxine to manage the condition.
Ichthyosis: Ichthyosis is a skin condition that involves an excessive buildup of skin, most often described as dry and scaly. Overall, it’s a disorder that is present at birth, and can be a painful problem for Pitbulls. Signs of this condition include thickened skin, and a hardened layer on the paw pads. This peculiar skin condition exhibits indications resembling those of fish scales or dandruff in humans. If not dealt with, the scales will become more intense with the Pitbull’s increasing age.
Bloat: These pits may also develop bloat. Bloat, or gastric dilatation volvulus, is a condition where the stomach becomes distorted due to an accumulation of gas or fluid. This can lead to a dangerous twisting of the stomach. Unfortunately, some Pitbull owners may downplay the seriousness of this medical issue, however, it can be deadly within a few hours. When a dog with this disorder eats, they may end up having too much gas in their stomachs. Also, consuming fermented food and “air eating” can make the condition even worse.So, if your pup has a swollen abdomen and appears to be nervous, you should take him to the vet straight away. The physician can look into techniques to release the air.
Cataracts: Mexican Pitbulls are also susceptible to cataracts. A cataract is an eye disorder that results in the clouding of the lens of the eye. It’s typically age-related and can interfere with vision. This breed is more likely to develop cataracts than other breeds. The cause of this can be either genetic or arise from other ailments like hypocalcemia, diabetes, and uveitis. If caught early, pharmaceutical treatments can be used to reduce the cataracts, however, surgery may be necessary if the condition has progressed. Puppies of this breed are more prone to juvenile cataracts, which usually appear before 6 years of age.
Male vs Female
By just looking at them, you typically wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between a male and female Mexican Pitbull, unless you look at their nether regions. But there are certain differences between male and female Pitbulls that should be taken into consideration when deciding which gender to adopt. One of the most noticeable differences is size. Male Pitbulls tend to be larger and more muscular, while females are generally smaller and leaner.
Additionally, male Pitbulls may be more dominant and territorial, while females may be more affectionate and nurturing towards their owners and family members. But note that these traits can vary greatly depending on the individual dog and their upbringing, so it’s not a hard and fast rule.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Mexican Pitbull
1. Mexican Pitbulls are sometimes referred to as Mexican Staffordshire Terriers.
2. The breed was developed in Mexico in the 1980s for illegal dog fighting rings.
3. Mexican Pitbulls are highly trainable and can be taught to perform a variety of tasks, including assisting people with disabilities and working as search and rescue dogs.
Mexican pit bulls have gained popularity in recent years, appearing in movies, TV shows, and even music videos. One of the most famous Mexican Pitbulls is Hulk, a dog that gained fame for his massive size and muscular build. Hulk has appeared in several TV shows and has a large following on social media.
Mexican Pitbulls have also been featured in movies such as “The Sandlot” and “Little Giants.” They have also appeared in music videos for artists such as Snoop Dogg and Pitbull. Mexican Pitbulls are often portrayed as tough and fearless, but in reality, they are friendly and affectionate dogs that make great family pets.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering getting a Mexican Pitbull, it’s important to remember that they require regular daily exercise and playtime to keep them happy and from running wild around your home. They’re also highly social dogs and require plenty of attention and affection from their owners. With proper care and training, Mexican Pitbulls can make great companions and loyal family pets. It’s important to start training these dogs while they are still young puppies to prevent them from becoming stubborn adults that are difficult to control.
If you are looking for a companion dog that can also protect your property, you cannot go wrong with an Irish Wolfhound and Cane Corso mix. Though rare, this mix is known for its imposing appearance and protectiveness.
However, this mix has many other characteristics that may surprise owners unfamiliar with it. In this article, we will discuss the Cane Corso Wolfhound Mix in terms of its temperament, physical traits, care tips, and more.
Breed Overview
Height:
22–28 inches
Weight:
100–140 pounds
Lifespan:
10–12 years
Colors:
Black, brindle, fawn, blue, red, or gray
Suitable for:
Active families, households with older kids, and anyone looking for a guard dog
Temperament:
Intelligent, loyal, and protective
As the name suggests, this dog is created by crossing a Cane Corso with an Irish Wolfhound. The Irish Wolfhound is a rangy, big, and scruffy-looking dog that was initially bred for hunting and as a guard dog. However, beneath the rough exterior is a sensitive and pleasant dog that forms lifelong bonds with its owners.
On the other hand, the Cane Corso, or “Corso” in short, is a muscular and large-sized Mastiff breed that is highly intelligent, loving, docile, and very devoted to protecting its owners despite their aggressive appearance. Overall, Cane Corso requires moderate care and maintenance and will require plenty of exercise, socialization, and training.
Since the Cane Corso Wolfhound Mix is an exceptionally large-sized dog, puppy development usually spans between 20–24 months to grow into full maturity. Physically, these puppies can grow incredibly fast between the first 9–10 months. After that, their growth rate slows down in the adolescent stage to gain fat and muscle mass, and this can last between 10–16 months.
These puppies reach their full adult size between 12–14 months.
Socially, the Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix grows steadily and will reach sexual maturity between 11–12 months and full mental maturity by the time they are two years old. However, some dogs may still display puppy-like behavior for a few extra months.
Since this mix features two different parent dog breeds, you should first inquire about the different characteristics of the parents before mixing them and affecting your dog’s general temperament. You can also opt to meet the parent dogs to get a rough idea about the kind of temperament they will give their puppies.
The parent breeds can also affect the adaptability of the puppies. Consult your breeder to get an idea of the potential adaptability range you can expect from a particular litter of mixed puppies.
The parent breeds of Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix: Left – Cane Corso (CharlitoCZ, Shutterstock) | Right – Irish Wolfhound (DragoNika, Shutterstock)
Temperament & Intelligence of the Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix
The Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix is known to be an incredibly protective and loyal dog that always puts its owners first. They make great companions and will enjoy playing Frisbee or fetch at your local dog park.
They are also very intelligent—a trait passed down from both parent breeds. They can quickly and easily learn new tricks and commands. However, if owners do not invest in proper training, their instinct to take charge can be an issue for the pet parents.
All in all, the Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix is confident, reserved, quiet, and very attentive to its surroundings.
Are These Dogs Good for Families?
The characteristics of the Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix make them an ideal choice for a family companion. Besides being loyal and caring, the dogs also seem to be aware of the potential problems their huge size can cause.
While they can get along with kids, they are best suited for families with older children. This is because, as a large dog mix, it can easily knock over and trample young kids and smaller pets.
Also, it is susceptible to a sudden burst of energy, which can cause accidents in your home. So, supervision is necessary when this dog is around smaller children.
Does This Dog Get Along With Other Pets?
Generally, the Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix is considered a friendly canine that can easily get along with pets, including other dogs. However, if you are hoping to integrate this huge dog into your family, it’s best to introduce two dogs while at the puppy stage.
Also, even though it can live with cats as a sighthound, it will naturally want to chase after them. Again, you should try to introduce the two animals while young to get a positive response.
However, if you keep smaller animals like rabbits, do not leave your dog alone with them. Your dog is very likely to chase after it, possibly leading to serious injuries or worse.
Things to Know When Owning a Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix
Food & Diet Requirements
As a highly energetic dog, the Cane Corso-Irish Wolfhound Mix requires an age-appropriate and high-quality diet to satisfy its nutritional needs. In a commercial store setting, the diets can either be labeled senior, adult, or puppy. If you come across a diet labeled as “all life stages”, you should only feed this to your puppies because the composition of the food is not formulated for older mature dogs.
Keep to a diet recommended and approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). With AAFCO-approved diets, you don’t need to buy additional mineral and vitamin supplements. But some supplements may come in handy for digestive and joint health as well as providing your mutt with a well-rounded health plan.
These dogs are susceptible to stomach issues, so you should take some precautions before feeding. For instance, instead of giving your dog one huge and heavy meal, consider giving it smaller meal portions spread throughout the day.
Moreover, avoid feeding your dog animal bones or table scraps because this can easily cause diarrhea, vomiting, stomach upset, and a general lack of appetite. Also, foods high in fats can cause pancreatitis.
Generally, you should only feed your Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound mix 3 to 4 times a day and on a regular schedule. Adult dogs should only be fed twice a day. The amount of food you give your dog will, of course, depend on your dog’s specific energy requirements and the food’s specific caloric density. But it’s best to consult your vet first.
As a muscular and athletic dog, the exercise requirements for Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix are very high. Mental stimulation and physical activities that benefit their general well-being include regular walks, bike rides, and jogs, as well as muscle toning exercises such as weight pulling or playing tug of war.
Generally, an adult dog will need about 90 minutes of exercise per day. However, this will depend on the age and activity level.
The best way to ensure that your puppy grows and thrives into a healthy mature dog is by exercising it from 3 months of age. You can do this by taking short leashed walks (about 5-10 minutes) around your neighborhood. You can then increase the frequency and length of the walk as the puppy grows.
Without regular exercise, your dogs will likely become frustrated, bored, disobedient, and even worse, aggressive towards your household members. So, by engaging your dog in physical activities, you get to increase your safety and improve your dog’s general peace of mind.
If your dog is indoor raised or you happen to live in an apartment building with minimal open space for exercises, you can provide chew toys or balls to help him burn excess energy.
The parent breeds of Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix: Left – Cane Corso (Miroshnikova Arina, Shutterstock) | Right – Irish Wolfhound (Barbora Bridges, Shutterstock)
Training
As earlier mentioned, this mix is considered attentive and eager to please, thus easier to train using positive training techniques such as praise or treats.
House training: Usually, this mix is often considered clean and tidy. Be that as it may, house training tends to take longer. This can be attributed to the fact that they usually have a strong hunting instinct which may prompt them to follow their nose instead of listening and paying attention to the commands from the owner.
Crate Training: Experts recommend that you need to crate train this dog because it can easily attempt to escape your compound in search of an interesting smell. Crate training is also a good way to potty train your mutt because it will not want to soil its sleeping area.
Guard Dog Training: As you may have gathered, these dogs can make excellent guard dogs. However, you need to socialize your puppies from a very young age so that they can learn to distinguish between foes and friends.
Grooming
Just like their parent breeds, the Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix features glossy, short-haired, and double-layered coats that don’t shed frequently. However, they shed profusely after they blow their coats in fall and spring.
Here are some grooming needs to practice:
Skin Care: When it comes to skincare, this mix is surprisingly very low-maintenance, only requiring bathing a few times a year, preferably in spring when the shedding is high or when they simply get dirty. If you bathe your dog more frequently, you are likely to strip off the natural oil coat that helps protect the skin from foreign agents.
Coat Care: It’s good practice to brush your dog’s coat during the shedding season. But as a general rule of thumb, brush your dog’s coat weekly, preferably using a bristle brush, a hound glove, or a rubber grooming tool to remove dander and dead hair before it falls on your clothes and furniture. Brushing also promotes new fur growth.
Eye Care: Your dog’s eyes should always be clear and without any discharge or redness. So, make sure that your dog’s lashes are not long enough to rub on the eye. You can clean the eyes with mild-eye cleaning wipes to prevent tear staining.
Ear Care: Check for a bad odor or any redness in your dog’s ears because they might be a sign of an ear infection. However, you shouldn’t regularly clean your dog’s ears if there aren’t any signs of infections because it can create more problems than it would solve. Any excessive amount of moisture in the ear can easily promote bacterial growth in the ear canal, thus leading to ear infections.
Nail Care: The dog’s nails should be cleaned and trimmed regularly. If you allow your dog’s nails to grow excessively long, they can cause problems with running and walking. It is also extremely painful for dogs.
Health and Conditions
While Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound mixes are generally healthy dogs, they are also prone to some conditions inherited from the parent breeds. Potential owners of this dog should be on the lookout for the following health issues that affect this dog.
Minor Conditions
Demodectic Mange: This is a skin condition that can develop in dogs due to a genetic disposition. Some signs may include scaly skin, red bumps, hair loss, itchiness, and thickening and darkening of the skin. Smaller lesions tend to resolve themselves in about two months. But larger lesions can be treated and managed with oral or topical medications
Obesity: Obesity can stress your dog’s body, paving the way for other health issues. Therefore, it is always best to work with your local vet to come up with a suitable nutritional plan for the different stages of your dog’s life.
Serious Conditions
Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: Hip Dysplasia is a common degenerative joint malady that affects the hind limbs, while elbow dysplasia affects the front limbs. This condition can progress into arthritis later on in life.
Idiopathic Epilepsy: Epilepsy is simply a seizure disorder, while “idiopathic” refers to medical issues that arise spontaneously, even when there is no apparent cause. These seizures tend to occur in dogs below age 3. While this disease may not have a cure as of yet, it can be managed.
Eyelid Abnormalities: Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix breeds are highly likely to inherit eye conditions from the parent Cane Corso dogs. They include Entropion, Ectropion, and Cherry Eye. These eye abnormalities can cause secondary bacterial infection, chronic irritation, and even conjunctivitis. The only way to correct these eye issues is through surgery.
Bloat and GDV (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): This life-threatening condition can suddenly occur when a dog’s stomach enlarges because of bloat and then later twists on itself because of GDV. Granted, bloat can sometimes be treated with medical intervention, but GDV requires immediate corrective surgery to save the mutt’s life. Thankfully, you can prevent your dog from developing this often-fatal disease using gastropexy. This is a type of surgery done on puppies that are being neutered or spayed.
Lifespan
Note that this dog tends to have a shorter lifespan which can discourage dog enthusiasts from adopting or purchasing it. It lives up to 9 years and thereabouts, while other family breeds, like Retrievers and Labradors, can live twice as much as this. So, it may be an unappealing breed to dog enthusiasts looking for lifelong companions.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix
1. The Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix Can ‘Talk’.
Indeed, this dog breed can talk or at least vocalize. You can expect snuffles, snorts, and howling sounds somewhere between singing and barking.
2. This Dog Extremely Sensitive to Their Owners
This dog is much more attuned to different mood swings from the owner. They may even think that they are the main cause of your grief, happiness, pride, or even anger. Most owners describe the relationship with this dog as one of depth and subtlety.
3. They Thrive When Given Something to Do
This dog will be in its element when given a task to do. It could be working on a farm or even participating in dog sports such as agility, tracking, and scent work.
The parent breeds of Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix: Left – Cane Corso (otsphoto, Shutterstock) | Right – Irish Wolfhound (Zuzule, Shutterstock)
Final Thoughts
The Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix is a very handsome and rare dog from two very distinct purebreds. While not common in many households, it has steadily been rising in popularity due to its keen mind, appearance, and devoted nature.
They feature an even temperament, making them suitable as family pets regardless of other dogs being present in the household. They are also loved because of their unwavering loyalty and willingness to protect their owners.
(@jackblackkthepug)
Shoyu & Shabu the pugs 
(@tamotsu_y_yukie)
