Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix: Guide, Pictures, Care & More

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.

divider-paw

Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix Puppies

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.

Parent breeds of the Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix
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.

Exercise 🐕

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.

Cane Corso and Irish Wolfhound
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.

divider-paw

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.

Parent breeds of puppy Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix
The parent breeds of Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix: Left – Cane Corso (otsphoto, Shutterstock) | Right – Irish Wolfhound (Zuzule, Shutterstock)

divider-dog

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.


Featured Image Credit: Left – Cane Corso (Didkovska Ilona, Shutterstock) | Right – Irish Wolfhound (DragoNika, Shutterstock)

The post Cane Corso Irish Wolfhound Mix: Guide, Pictures, Care & More appeared first on Pet Keen.

Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix: Guide, Pictures, Care & More

Among working dogs, the Cane Corso and Dogo Argentino are both favored for their dedicated temperament, size, and strength. They are powerful dogs that are well suited to being guard dogs or hunters and have recently found a place in family homes as loyal companions.

While the origins of the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix are difficult to determine, the breed shares the best characteristics of their parents.

Breed Overview

Height:

24–27 inches

Weight:

80–100 pounds

Lifespan:

10–15 years

Colors:

Black, white, gray

Suitable for:

Active families, experienced dog owners, families with older children, and houses with a yard

Temperament:

Wary of strangers, intelligent, vigilant, energetic, loyal, calm, affectionate

Both the Cane Corso and Dogo Argentino are intelligent, majestic dogs, and their hybrid puppies share many of the same traits. As a large breed, the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is an excellent guard dog that does best in active families with owners who are familiar with dogs.

The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix isn’t one of the most popular hybrid breeds, and their appearance can be intimidating. But these dogs are dedicated, loyal, and affectionate toward their owners.

divider-paw

Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix Puppies

Hybrid breeds are rapidly growing in popularity, but the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is still relatively unknown to many dog owners. Therefore, it can be difficult to find one in your local area, and you’ll likely need to search further afield for a trustworthy breeder.

Although these dogs are often surrendered due to the time and effort that it takes to train them and their wariness around strangers, you may find it challenging to find this breed at rescues or shelters. If you can find a Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix at a shelter, the adoption fee will generally be much more affordable than the price from a breeder.

Remember that these puppies will grow quickly to meet their adult size. A diet formulated for large-breed puppies will help control and manage their growth rate to ensure that their body has the time that it needs to develop properly without risking injuries later.

As they grow, make sure you take puppy classes or hire a professional trainer to aid you in training and socializing your dog. A proper grasp of obedience commands will help you manage their behavior when they’re fully grown.

Parent breeds of the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix
The parent breeds of Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix: Left – Cane Corso (Sbolotova, Shutterstock) | Right – Dogo Argentino (Rafal Rutkowski, Shutterstock)

divider-dog paw

Temperament & Intelligence of the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix

The first thing you need to remember about the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is that they pick up the best and worst traits of both of their parents. Since the mix is still relatively new, there isn’t yet a standard for the breed and they will often be a blend of their parent’s temperaments or lean more toward either the Cane Corso or the Dogo Argentino.

Due to the parent breeds having similar temperaments and intelligence, this difference might not be as drastic as it is in some other hybrids. The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix’s energy levels and ability to get along with other people and pets can vary due to which parent they take after, though.

Most of all, these dogs require a great deal of training and socialization to ensure that they understand how to behave. Their size, weight, energy, and vigilance need to be balanced by a knowledge of how to control themselves and when they need to protect their own. Most of their training should be handled by you, as their owner, so you can develop your bond. For this reason, these dogs are often unsuitable for novice dog owners.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

Descended from two working dog breeds with fierce protective instincts, the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is one of the most loyal companions that you can find. They might not be the most affectionate around strangers, but they form powerful bonds with their family members. In most cases, when properly trained and socialized, these dogs are perfect companions for most families.

These dogs don’t suit every family, however, and their size and weight can make them prone to accidentally hurting young children. While they might not mean to hurt their youngest family members, their high energy and size often work against them.

You also need to consider the energy levels of these dogs. The Cane Corso and the Dogo Argentino are both working breeds and highly active. Their offspring are the same way and will need regular exercise and plenty of it to help manage their energy. These dogs are best paired with active families and older children.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

Unfortunately, the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix isn’t one of the best breeds for multi-pet households. While they can learn to get along with other pets if they grow up with another dog or a cat, this breed inherits their parents’ high prey drive and can be dangerous around smaller or even larger animals.

If they’re not taught to understand that not every animal or stranger that they see is a potential threat, these dogs can be dangerous toward people outside of the family. This is why socialization from a young age is essential for guard dogs like the Cane Corso, the Dogo Argentino, and their hybrid puppies.

divider-dog paw

Things to Know When Owning a Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix

Taking care of any dog is a great responsibility. The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is similar to both of their parent breeds, which makes many of their care needs the same. These may vary greatly from dogs that you might already be familiar with or less active breeds.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

High-quality dog food that’s high in protein and appropriate for your Cane Corso Dog Argentino mix’s age is the best option when it comes to feeding this dog. Quality ingredients will ensure that your dog has a healthy, balanced diet, and the protein content will help them maintain their activity levels. You can also feed them homemade meals, but make sure you discuss nutritional requirements and recipes with your veterinarian before you start making your own dog food.

Exercise 🐕

The Cane Corso and the Dogo Argentino are working dogs with a history of hunting. While the Cane Corso had a more varied purpose than the Dogo Argentino, both breeds were developed to have high energy levels to ensure that they could handle all the tasks that they were given. The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix needs a significant amount of exercise too.

Regular exercise in the form of long walks at least twice a day and playtime will help manage their energy levels.

Training 🎾

All dogs should be trained and socialized to ensure proper behavior as they grow. With a breed like the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix, though, this need becomes even more crucial. Their size, weight, and strength can quickly become unmanageable for many owners as the puppy grows into an adult. Their wariness around strangers can also lead to aggression and result in your dog being seen as unsafe, particularly around people.

These dogs are highly intelligent, but they still benefit from an experienced owner who is familiar with training large breeds. They need firm guidance, positive reinforcement, and training from their owner rather than a boarding facility. Puppy classes or hiring a professional trainer can help you determine the best training methods for this breed.

Grooming ✂

How often you need to groom your Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix depends on which parent breed your puppy takes after the most. These dogs can have the short double coat of the Cane Corso or the single-layered coat of the Dogo Argentino. While both breeds have minimal grooming requirements due to the shortness of their fur, the Cane Corso tends to shed more throughout the year.

A bristle brush, grooming mitt, or currycomb are often all that you need to use to tend to these dogs, and they rarely need baths unless they get particularly muddy or smelly. Their minimal grooming requirements shouldn’t let you completely forget about their needs, though. You need to brush their teeth, clean their ears, and trim their claws regularly.

Health and Conditions 🏥

The hardiness of the Cane Corso and the Dogo Argentino doesn’t just show itself in their appearance; it also plays a part in their health. Both breeds are generally healthy, with only a few common medical issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, as is common with many large-breed dogs. The Dogo Argentino is also often commonly afflicted with hearing loss and may require alternative training methods if they do lose their hearing.

A trustworthy breeder will always screen for genetic health issues. This doesn’t always mean your puppy won’t develop a problem, but it can help reduce the risk to your dog.

Minor Conditions
  • Allergies

  • Eye issues

Serious Conditions
  • Hip and elbow dysplasia

  • Hearing loss

  • Bloat

divider-paw

Male vs. Female

There is little difference between male and female Cane Corso Dogo Argentino dogs beyond the obvious. The females are also slightly smaller and lighter than the males.

All members of the breed share the same loyalty and protective vigilance, though their temperament may vary slightly among individuals. Both males and females will need the same level of training and socialization, which novice dog owners can find challenging.

When you’re looking for a Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix, try not to dwell too much on the sex. You should spend time with the puppy to make sure that their temperament and personality match yours and that they have a connection with you. This initial bond will help you two build a strong friendship.


3 Little-Known Facts About The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix

1. They Are Descended From Big Game Hunters

It’s rarely wise to judge a book by its cover, but in the case of the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix, there is a reason for their fierce appearance. Their ancestors—on both sides of their parentage—were primarily bred as fighting dogs of some kind.

While the Dogo Argentino found a more traditional role in hunting from the start of their history, the Cane Corso found a place on the battlefield alongside Roman soldiers. Only when the need for war dogs in Rome lessened did the Cane Corso find a purpose in hunting, farming, and guarding livestock.

Most of all, though, both the Cane Corso and the Dogo Argentino helped their owners hunt big game animals. Due to their size and strength, they frequently brought down wild boar and other large animals. Their hunting instincts have been handed down to their mixed puppies. Teaching your Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix how to manage their energy and instincts is essential when you’re training them.


2. They Are Incredibly Versatile

One of the most well-loved traits of the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is their versatility. Although the Dogo Argentino was primarily used for hunting large prey, the Cane Corso had a much wider range of jobs, and their adaptability lives on in their offspring.

After their use on the battlefield ended, the Cane Corso was used as a hunting companion but also as a livestock guardian and for other farm work. Both breeds have always worked closely with humans, and their mixed puppies are just as dependable and well-suited to a range of jobs.


3. They Adore Their Families

Many dogs adore making friends of all shapes and sizes. The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix isn’t one of them, though, and their natural wariness can make visiting with your friends a challenge, particularly if your dog isn’t properly socialized. That said, despite the vigilant suspicion that these dogs have toward strangers, they aren’t scared of showing their soft, affectionate side to their family.

While you’ll never catch them cuddling up to your best friend, once your guests have gone home, your puppy will be right back at your side to smother you with adoration.

divider-dog

Final Thoughts

When it comes to the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix, they’re not a well-known hybrid breed, and their intimidating appearance can put off many people. They are descended from two powerful working dogs that both have histories of working closely with humans. The Cane Corso began as a war dog fighting alongside Roman soldiers, and the Dogo Argentino was a fighting dog bred to hunt wild boar and other large animals.

Their appearance and wariness of strangers can make many people timid around these dogs. Toward their family members, however, the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is a loyal and affectionate companion that does well in active families and alongside single dog owners. They do need plenty of exercise, training, and socialization to ensure that they know how to behave.

If you can put in the time and effort to help these dogs grow to be the best that they can be, they will reward you with affection, protection, and loyalty that few other breeds can match.


Featured Image Credit: Left – Cane Corso (Didkovska Ilona, Shutterstock) | Right – Dogo Argentino (GeptaYs, Shutterstock)

The post Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix: Guide, Pictures, Care & More appeared first on Pet Keen.

Cane Corso Husky Mix: Guide, Pictures, Care & More

If you’re looking for a devoted, affectionate, and fearless guardian, the Cane Corso and Siberian Husky mix will be a perfect choice. Despite the imposing size, it has energy for days and can easily scare away a potential threat. This dog doesn’t bark that often and, when properly socialized, can be welcoming to strangers. It can be a bit stubborn, but with the right training, it will quickly turn into a new best friend for your family.

Breed Overview

Height:

20–27 inches

Weight:

40–100 pounds

Lifespan:

8–14 years

Colors:

Varies depending on the parents

Suitable for:

Families with adult kids

Temperament:

Intelligent, affectionate, loyal, protective, easy to train, standoffish toward strangers

Siberian Huskies are playful, open to strangers, and eager to please their owners. Cane Corsos are just as loyal, protective, and also quite intelligent. So, with a Cane Corso Husky mix, you’ll get the best of both worlds! These dogs are big, strong, and ready to fly in the face of danger to protect their human owners. Just how friendly are they, exactly? Should you adopt a Cane Corso Husky mix as a family pet? How do you feed, train, and groom it? We have the answers right here!

divider-paw

Cane Corso Husky Mix Breed Puppies

The first thing you’ll notice about the Cane Corso Husky mix when checking out the pups at local breeders and adoption centers is how affordable they are. As the name suggests, this isn’t a purebred doggo. On the one hand, that’s bad news, as you won’t be able to compete in any shows with it. However, that also means the dog doesn’t cost a fortune. A dog shelter might hand it over to you for as cheap as $50–$100 or even for free!

The Cane Corso Husky mix isn’t very popular among dog lovers. So, for most rescue organizations, finding a pet parent for it is not an easy task. Breeders don’t have much use for them, either. Do keep in mind, though, that depending on where you live, it might not be easy to come across a Cane Corso Husky mix in the first place. Take your time: monitor local shelters, breeders, and even social media publications. Be patient, and your efforts will be rewarded.

Parent breeds of Cane Corso Husky Mix
The parent breeds of Cane Corso Husky Mix: Left – Cane Corso (CharlitoCZ, Shutterstock) | Right – Siberian Husky (andrescarlofotografia, Pixabay)

divider-dog paw

Temperament & Intelligence of the Cane Corso Husky Mix

As far as the smartest dog breeds go, Huskies and Cane Corsos are right on top of the list. Worriers and work dogs at heart, they are quite intelligent and can easily take on tasks like herding, guarding, and watch duty. More than that, both breeds have enough wits to participate in the toughest competitions. And, naturally, their “lovechild”, the Cane Corso Husky mix, has all these traits and then some.

On top of walking, running, and hiking, this dog can play some of the most demanding games and learn the toughest tricks. As for the character, the Siberian Corso is very calm and centered and doesn’t bark or howl without a reason. Affectionate and eager to make friends with new humans and animals, this mighty doggo also has a playful, cheerful side. It’s quick to adapt, too, which means the dog won’t have a hard time finding its place in a new home.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

The short answer is yes, they are. Despite the large size, the Cane Corso Husky mix is a tender, loving, and caring animal. It also has a fragile heart and shouldn’t be offended or be left alone for long hours. This is one of those dogs that put the well-being of its family above its own safety. And, just like the Huskies and Corsos, it’s only truly happy when the bond with the owners is strong. But this mix-breed is not a clingy beast and doesn’t require your attention all the time.

As long as you spend an hour or two playing/hanging out with the dog, it won’t be taken over by separation anxiety, develop bad habits, or lose its temper. One more thing: while large outdoor spaces are preferred, a well-trained and socialized Siberian Corso should be alright in an average-size house or even apartment. This is only true if you walk it for 30–60 minutes and let it breathe fresh air.

What About Little Children?

The Cane Corso Husky mix is an exemplary pet for a family with adult children that know how to behave around dogs. However, if you have little children in the house, this mix-breed won’t be the best choice. True, it has a highly protective nature and will safeguard the little ones from outside threats. In addition, it’s a fairly patient and tolerant breast. Still, you should NEVER leave it alone with kids: supervision is mandatory if you want to avoid accidents.

Some children are a little too playful and energetic and tend to get overly touchy. Pulling its coat, touching its eyes, or trying to ride this dog might provoke it. The Siberian Corso rarely bites (especially someone they know), but even a loud bark or aggressive move will be enough to scare the children. Besides, this is a large animal: it might accidentally hurt a baby. So, you’ll either have to serve as a 24/7 supervisor or wait until your toddlers get older and learn the basics of dog interaction.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

For the most part, yes, it does. By default, the Cane Corso Husky mix (especially its Corso side) isn’t the most approachable dog for fellow four-legged creatures. But, if you socialize it while it’s still a pup, you will be able to turn it into a more open, trusting, and curious pet that will be welcoming to other dogs. What about cats: can you trust a Siberian Corso around your favorite furballs? Again, it all comes down to the dog’s upbringing.

Now, there’s a common misconception that Cane Corsos don’t like felines, but that’s not true. When properly trained, they get along with kitties just fine. Huskies, in contrast, are predators and might be hostile toward cats. With this breed, supervision is critical. Does that mean a Siberian Corso is a danger to cats? For the most part, no, but caution is advised. Try introducing these two pets to each other under strict supervision and see how it goes.

divider-dog paw

Things to Know When Owning a Cane Corso Husky Mix:

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

It takes one glimpse at this mighty dog to realize that it needs a lot of food to grow. Siberian Huskies aren’t the largest breed out there, but the Italian Mastiffs sure do need their fair share of food. You still need to be conscious about how much food you feed the Siberian Corso, of course. As a bigger-than-average canine, it gains extra weight a little quicker than the smaller pooches. This is especially true for older dogs that don’t move around that much.

So, before you start feeding it, consult with a veterinarian. They’ll help come up with the right diet that will not only keep the dog healthy but also fit. While the general recommendations are roughly the same, the diet will be slightly different depending on the doggo’s age and activity level. And remember: the meals have to be rich in protein, minerals, and vitamins. Also, to avoid bloating, break the daily meals down into 3–4 small portions.

Exercise 🐕

Siberian Corsos are highly active, energetic dogs, thanks to the healthy genes inherited from both parent breeds. They’re quick to catch on, too, and don’t take forever to learn a new trick. At first, it will take time for the dog to warm up to you and become familiar with your commands. But, pretty soon, it will start to feel like the furry bud can “finish your sentences”. A Corso Husky relies heavily on high-level exercises to stay in top form.

Since Huskies and Corsos were bred to serve as working and guardian dogs, they aren’t used to lying on the couch and acting a fool. You won’t have to do anything fancy to keep them entertained, though. Just like any other dog, a Siberian Corso enjoys walks, jogs, runs, Frisbee, tug-of-war, and even swimming. On average, 1–2 hours of exercise is enough for this big dog to sustain its health and muscle tone.

To sum up:

  • The Corso Husky mix needs at least an hour of daily exercise

  • It’s a very smart dog that likes intelligent games as well as running/walking

  • Always include high-intensity exercises in the routine to keep the pet fit

  • Don’t leave the Siberian Corso alone for a long time. Otherwise, anxiety will kick in

  • Talk to a vet to find the perfect diet as these dogs are prone to obesity

Training 🎾

The one thing to keep in mind when training a Cane Corso Husky mix is that both its parent breeds are highly intelligent yet a bit stubborn. This is a trait that many clever canine citizens share, by the way. The smarter the dog, the more headstrong it’s going to be. With that, the Cane Corso Husky mix is quick to follow commands. And the reason for that is simple: it wants to please its owner. However, to achieve the best results, it’s important to start the training as soon as possible.

You need to let the doggo know who’s the master in this relationship. Don’t be too harsh with it, as both Siberian Huskies and Italian Mastiffs are easily offended, especially if you already have a strong bond. But, again, do your best to establish yourself as the “boss”. Be demanding yet patient, and don’t forget to treat your four-legged bud for a job well done. Positive reinforcement plays a key role in creating a healthy relationship with the Siberian Corso.

Here’s a recap:

  • Siberian Corsos catch on fast and are eager to please

  • Depending on the dog’s genes, it might be a bit stubborn

  • As the owner, you need to be persistent and patient

  • Make sure the dog recognizes you as the master/alpha

  • Socialize the pup at a young age to make it friendly toward strangers

  • These dogs are perfect for big families with adult children

  • Little kids will require supervision at all times, though

Grooming ✂

This dog has a short, double-layered coat that sheds moderately throughout the year and extensively when the season hits. To help the fur stay in shape, we recommend brushing the Siberian Corso daily. Use a combination of hound gloves, medium-bristle brushes, and grooming mitts to keep the hair clean and healthy. Now, Huskies only need to be bathed 2–3 times a year, while Corsos should be showered at least once in two months (or even every other week).

Thus, a Cane Corso Husky mix will be happy if you bathe it once a season (2–3 months). Buy a shampoo that was specifically formulated for large dogs and short double coats to the best effect. As for the nails, trim them regularly to help the dog avoid discomfort while running. This is important: both Huskies and Corsos are prone to ear infections. So, don’t forget to clean their ears weekly. Tooth brushing should be done twice a week.

Health and Conditions 🏥

Thanks to its mighty parent breeds, the Siberian Corso is a very healthy dog. If you follow our recommendations on diet, training, exercises, and grooming, you should be able to keep the pet in tip-top shape. However, as a large doggo, this chap is prone to Gastric dilatation-volvulus, AKA bloat. Other health conditions include joint dysplasia, retinal atrophy, and idiopathic epilepsy. Here’s a closer look at the most common health issues:

Minor Conditions
  • Cataracts

  • Hypothyroidism

  • Zinc Deficiency

  • Follicular dysplasia

  • Glaucoma

Serious Conditions
  • Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)

  • Joint dysplasia (hip/elbow)

  • Idiopathic epilepsy

  • Demodex mange

  • Eyelid abnormalities

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy

  • Uveodermatologic Syndrome

divider-paw

Male vs Female

And now, let’s talk about the differences between boys and girls. Male Cane Corso Husky mixes are taller and weigh more. Plus, they are a bit more aggressive, especially toward other male dogs, and tend to mark their territory. But, strangely enough, male Siberian Corsos are more open to humans and other pets. The females need a little bit more attention and are more protective by nature.

The lifespan is roughly the same, though, and there aren’t any striking visual differences. The males and females need daily exercises, a capable trainer, and a home that makes them feel loved and cherished. As they grow up, both sexes become wiser, stronger, and more conscious about their surroundings. Adult Coros Husky mixes are amazing family dogs.


3 Little-Known Facts About the Cane Corso Husky Mix

1. No Kennel Club Recognizes It as a Breed

As the name suggests, the Cane Corso Husky mix is a mongrel, not a purebred. So, it can’t compete in any official dog shows like Crufts or the Westminster Kennel Club show. It’s not categorized as a “standalone” breed by any of the reputable kennel clubs. We’re talking about the AKC, British KC, and the UKC (United Kennel Club). Therefore, if it’s important for you to get a doggo that will be allowed to compete in international shows, you might want to pick a different pet.


2. Its Parent Breeds Come from Italy and Russia

The Ancient Greeks were famous for breeding giant war dogs called Molossi. When the Romans fought the Greeks, they were fascinated by these canines and brought them back to Italy to breed with local dogs. Modern-day Cane Corsos are their successors. For that reason, they’re often called the Italian Mastiffs. And what about the Huskies? Well, as you’ve probably already guessed, they’re hailing from Russia.

More specifically, these loyal buds are from Siberia. Chukchi, the indigenous people of the Chukchi Peninsula, bred them to serve as companions and sled dogs. That’s why Huskies are so strong, durable, and ready to take on heavy work. A quick note: back in 1925, Siberian Huskies helped Leonhard Seppala, a famed musher, deliver a vaccine to Alaska to fight a diphtheria epidemic. They were on the road for almost six days!


3. These Dogs Rarely Drool

It’s no secret that many large dogs tend to drool a lot. Well, that’s not the case with the Siberian Corso. While it’s not 100% drool-free, you won’t have to change the blankets, bed linens, or clothes very often. Cane Corsos have a standard drooling level for a dog this big, but Huskies rarely salivate enough to ruin precious furniture. So, with the Cane Corso Husky mix, you should expect below-average drooling.

divider-dog

Final Thoughts

There’s very little not to like about the Cane Corso Husky mix. Most dog parents are looking for a playful, charming, and loyal dog to join their families, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with this champ. It’s a large, mighty dog, a devoted protector for a loving family. While it does have a stubborn side, in general, the Siberian Corso is an obedient, easy-going beast that will faithfully follow your commands.

You will have to exercise with it daily, though (for at least an hour or two), and teach the dog how to behave at a very young age. And no matter how much effort you put into the training, it’s still not recommended to have this doggo around little children. Seniors also might have a hard time trying to keep up with this overzealous beast. At the same time, if you’re in the market for an athletic, graceful, and loyal new member of the family, the Cane Corso Husky mix will be a perfect pick!


Featured Image Credit: Left – Cane Corso (Didkovska Ilona, Shutterstock) | Right – Siberian Husky (SonjaLindberg, Pixabay)

The post Cane Corso Husky Mix: Guide, Pictures, Care & More appeared first on Pet Keen.