Physical Attributes
Male: 26-28 inches (66cm-71cm )
Female: 24-26 inches (61-66cm)
Male: 140 lb to 180 lb (64-82 kg)
Female: 120lb 170lb (54-77kg)
The Bullmastiff has a dark mask to the face which may be inherited.
Cane Corso:
Working Group
Bullmastiff:
Working Group
Lifestyle Guidance:
What are the reasons to get a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
- A very loyal and devoted dog (click here for details)
- A good family dog patient and tolerant towards children (click here for details)
- Minimal grooming requirements (click here for details)
- Can be trained to a good standard (click here for details)
- Good with cats and other small animals (click here for details)
- A quiet dog who seldom barks (click here for details)
What are the reasons not to get a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
- Not a dog for a novice owner
- Needs a strong and confident owner
- A range of potential health problems associated with a big dog
- Cannot be left alone for very long
What is a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
Overview
The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix offers a mixed breed which is powerful, loyal and tenacious. This dog is nearly all Mastiff and therefore has gained its physical heritage from the ancient Molosser dogs of Ancient Greece and Rome.
The Cane Corso in Italy, in slight contrast to its sibling Italian breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff, is the most athletic and lean of the Mastiffs. While the Bullmastiff is a sturdy, solid and dependable dog with a very friendly disposition.
This combination promises a powerful and athletic mixed breed who is happiest when as close as possible to its human pack and patrolling the boundaries of your home.
What are the history and origins of the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
In order to truly understand the qualities and character of a classic or hybrid breed it is essential to have an idea of their original purpose and development.
So here follows an account of the fascinating history surrounding both the Cane Corso and the Bullmastiff.
The Bullmastiff – Origins
The Bullmastiff was developed in England, during the latter years of the nineteenth century, through the crossing of the English Mastiff with the English Bulldog in order to produce the perfect guard dog.
These early Bullmastiffs accompanied gamekeepers as the patrolled the lands of the gentry to catch and deter any poachers. This was not just some kind of cat-and-mouse game played out in the English countryside. The legal penalties surrounding poaching were severe, and you could be put to death if you were caught. Hence the expression ‘might as well be hung for a sheep as a lamb’.
This means poachers would attempt to kill gamekeepers if caught. Some would also be accompanied by their own dogs which they could set upon the gamekeepers in order to effect escape. This is why the Bullmastiff became the dog of choice for fending off poachers (and their dogs) and became popularly known as the ‘game-keepers night-dog’.
The combination of early hunting and fighting breeds gave the Bullmastiff all of the single-minded determination of the English Mastiff on the hunt, with the tenacity and fearlessness of the pugnacious Bulldog. Dog experts have concluded that the Bullmastiff is around 60% Mastiff, and 40% Bulldog, ensuring a good sized dog that could knock and pin down an intruder.
While the Mastiff had excelled at tracking and holding large prey, this dog was not quick enough to track down poachers. At the same time the Bulldog was too naturally aggressive to just hold or detain their captive and did not have the size to comfortably bring down a person.
This meant the English Bullmastiff offered the perfect blend of speed and restraint in the pursuit of poachers. They also inherited the Mastiff tendency to grip rather than savage their prey, which was perfect for capturing a poacher and placing them into the not-so-merciful hands of the law.
During the day the Bullmastiff provided an excellent guard dog and protector of the family for the gamekeeper. It was ironically this side-line role as a loving and gentle protector of the family that later threw this breed a life-line and still attracts owners to them to this day.
But with the demise of the poaching laws, this breed lost its main purpose and the numbers of Bullmastiffs heavily dropped. But it was their role as a protective and gentle family dog which ensured this wonderful breed’s survival.
A group of enthusiasts, who recognized their continuing potential as guard dogs, founded the Bullmastiff Club in the 1920s and the breed was standardized and officially recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1924.
This impressive breed began to attract attention over the pond in the USA and the AKC soon followed in recognizing them as a breed in 1934. It is fitting testament to this beautiful breed of dog that they currently rank at a very respectable 55th in the AKC popularity rankings of 2020 based on registration data [1].
The Cane Corso – Origins
The Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, also has roots extending back to the ancient Molossian war dogs from Ancient Greece.
These huge and powerful hounds where then employed as the Roman empire expanded. The forebear of the Cane Corso, known generically as the Italian Mastiff, was used as a war dog, and to grace the amphitheatres in battles with a range of other creatures including bears and lions.
As the Roman Empire declined these dogs were highly prized for both guarding and protecting houses and farms, but also in the hunting of large game such as boars and bears.
In fact the word ‘Cane’ means ‘dog’ and ‘Corso’ means to catch hence the English translation of this dog’s title is ‘catch-dog’. In this capacity this Italian Mastiff proved its bravery and formidable strength widely across the hunting fields of Italy, while the English Mastiff and even larger breeds such as the Great Dane performed the same function in Northern Europe.
These breeds were designed to follow the lead of the speedier Sight-Hounds, then to employ their bulk and power in holding down and restraining large prey until the hunters could arrive.
Linked Hybrid Breeds:
Cane Corso Great Dane Mix, Cane Corso German Shepherd Mix, Cane Corso Boxer Mix,
Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix, Great Dane Boxer Mix, Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix,
Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix, Cane Corso English Mastiff Mix, Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix,
Cane Corso Doberman Mix.
What is an interesting fact about the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
The Cane Corso Bullmastiff is nearly all Mastiff with small sprinkling of Terrier influence from its Bulldog heritage.
This mixed breed in itself represents the diversification of uses of the Mastiff group of breeds. While the Cane Corso hunted boar and game, the Bullmastiff became more specialized in hunting the hunters (or, as they were called by arguably greedy landowners at the time, poachers).
From here both dogs survived near extinction to both excellent guard dogs and wonderful members of the family.
We can be very grateful that the Cane Corso and the Bullmastiff have survived into modern times as now popular breeds. The fact that we have the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix which combines their best qualities is a very welcome added bonus.
What is the temperament and personality of the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix has will have a personality not too dissimilar to the Cane Corso English Mastiff Mix. But the old English Bulldog influence does add a little more energy and drive to this Mastiff based hybrid.
The most prominent characteristic of the Bullmastiff Cane Corso Mix will be the constant desire to be close to the owner or family. This dog is unlikely to a be a ‘one-person’ dog, but rather will bond closely with everyone in the family.
Both parent breeds, the Bullmastiff and the Cane Corso, have for many years been bred as close-protection guard dogs of their human families. As a consequence they will want to be with you as much as they can and have been known to follow their owners everywhere in the house (not even the bathroom is safe). They will also have a tendency to lean their bodies on when they are at rest.
The Bullmastiff Cane Corso Mix will offer very easy company and are always good fun. These dogs are also tolerant and excellent with children, although as with all dogs this must be monitored by an adult. They thrive when they are in a home where they can be at the center of anything happening in the household.
This mixed breed will be very playful and will demand plenty of interactive games based around fetching and tugging. While the Cane Corso offers an energetic exuberance, the Bullmastiff brings a calmer and empathetic temperament. This means the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will always be up for some active fun, but at the same time is likely to be more docile and laid-back than a purebred Cane Corso.
If you enjoy a bit of peace and quiet the Bullmastiff Cane Corso Mix may be the perfect dog for you. The Bullmastiff is known as the ‘silent watch-dog’ owing to the breed’s natural tendency not to bark unless to signal something is awry. Similarly, the Cane Corso is not a frequent barker, and will generally only do so when necessary, such as somebody unfamiliar approaching the house. So this mixed breed dog will make an excellent TV buddy unlike a more talkative breed such as the Siberian Husky.
But anyone who may mistake this tendency to be quiet for dopiness would be in for an unpleasant shock. The Bullmastiff Cane Corso Mix will offer an exceptionally alert guard dog, able and very willing to rise to the occasion in the event of an intruder entering the home.
But this dog will prove very far from aggressive. In fact, like the English Mastiff, this hybrid breed is likely only to bite as a final resort. Indeed, although the Cane Corso is naturally distrustful of strangers, this will be softened by the natural friendliness of the Bullmastiff. This promises a perfectly balanced temperament which will make socialization easier in ensuring your dog is calm upon the appearance of welcome guests.
Mastiffs do have a reputation for being stubborn and occasionally unwilling to do something without being bribed with food or treats. It is true that this trait has been inherited from both the Mastiff and the Bulldog. But fortunately the Cane Corso bucks this Mastiff trend. This again offers the likelihood that the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will largely be compliant and adaptable.
This friendly outgoing dog will also be a great companion outside of the home. This dog will enjoy plenty of exercise and will relish some time to investigate and explore off-leash. If possible thrown in some obedience training to keep this intelligent and powerful dog stimulated and entirely manageable at all times.
Both the Cane Corso and the Bullmastiff can be sensitive so training must be based around positive reinforcement This should include extensive socialization at puppy classes and generally around other dogs in order to soften a natural tendency in both founding breeds to occasionally be aggressive and domineering towards other dog
The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will adore the children in the family but must be trained to be careful due to their size and bulk and for this reason any play must be very closely supervised. It is also highly advised to continue to encourage ‘soft-mouth’ during socialization from the transition of puppyhood avoid any unintended injury to small children or any other smaller dogs in the household. But, as mentioned, the English Mastiff influence is likely to curtail any desire to bite
With all this in place this mixed breed will happily cohabit with other dogs and smaller animals. But if you are bringing a puppy home to an established dog this should be done in a carefully structured way as outlined in introducing a puppy to an older dog.
The Bullmastiff does not cope very well with change, as they were initially trained to look out for broken fences, trodden down foliage and other irregularities when patrolling for poachers. So your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix may be a dog who is sensitive to any change or upheaval.
This may also include any change of scene such as a family holiday. In order to counter this ensure small shifts of routine are included in socialization.
For the different stages in a puppy and adult dog’s development please click here.
What exercise is required for the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
The history of both parent breeds relates to hunting, so it is no surprise that the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is likely to be an The Cane Corso is on the active end of the Mastiff spectrum, while the Bullmastiff hovers around the middle being more active than its own parent breed, the English Mastiff.
It will be important with this large mixed breed that this dog remains as lean and healthy as possible to avoid placing extra strain on joints, ligaments and the heart.
This means that this dog will do well on being walked in excess of 1.5 hours each day. This can be divided into one walk of around an hour and supplemented by two shorter walks or three walks of around half-an-hour or more.
If possible this should include some time off-leash as this inquisitive dog will enjoy patrolling and investigating the surroundings. The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will also enjoy a games surrounding tugging, fetching or chasing.
It is very important to be aware that the Cane Corso and the Bullmastiff can suffer from gastric torsion (bloating). This means exercise should be carefully planned not to coincide within an hour either before or after eating to fully protect your dog from this potentially very dangerous condition.
Is the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix a good family dog?
A Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will provide a loving, affectionate and devoted family dog for those who have space and time to investing in training and socialization.
Both parent breeds have the reputation for being tolerant and patient towards children. But, as with all dogs, they should never be left unsupervised. This is particularly true of very small children who might be vulnerable to unintended harm due to the sheer bulk of this dog.
But this dog may not be the first choice for the house-proud as both the Bullmastiff and the Cane Corso slobber, so this will certainly be a feature of the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix. Owners must be prepared to have towels available all day in order to clear up the saliva trails that these dogs will leave behind.
But every bejewelled ribbon of slobber will be laced with love. This dog will always be eager to please and will do anything for its beloved human owners, and offers an loving and adorable companion to anyone looking for a large, dependable dog.
Who is the ideal owner of a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is a large dog who will require a firm canine leader to fully socialize and train this huge hound.
Experience with large and powerful breeds would be hugely beneficial. An owner will also need the physical strength and confidence to manage this Mastiff-based mixed breed both inside and outside the home.
It is also essential the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix has a secure outdoor area. For this mixed breed such an area not only provides for play and exercise but also to provide the mental and physical stimulation of patrolling and guarding a territory. This is in keeping with the historic role of both parent breeds as guard dogs.
This dog will do best in a household where they have human companionship most of the time. They will be at their most comfortable and happiest when in close proximity to their human owners. This means this Mastiff hybrid breed will not suit an owner or family if they need to be left alone for any significant period during the day.
If it is essential to leave the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix for any period of time regularly then it is absolutely imperative to offer training for separation anxiety at an early stage to prevent destructive behaviours in the house which will be the reflection of the dog’s stress.
What are the grooming requirements of the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will have very minimal grooming requirements. A couple of brushings a week to remove dead and circulate natural oils around the skin will suffice.
The Bullmastiff does have some wrinkling to the face and this could be inherited in a hybrid dog. If so, this area should be cleaned regularly as part of a grooming routine, particularly after eating to avoid lingering food particles causing any infection.
The Bullmastiff parent breed is brachycephalic meaning that they cannot keep as cool as other dogs through panting. So brushing should be daily during periods of hot weather as well as other measures to ensure that this dog is kept cool.
How much space is required for a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
When you combine the energetic and powerful Cane Corso with the sturdy solidity of the Bullmastiff then you might expect that this dog is going to need space both inside and in a secure outside area.
This will give the playful Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix the opportunity to engage in interactive games with their human owners and gain mental stimulation through patrolling their territory
The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is going to need a lot of space to stretch out in, but even more in which to play.
This mixed breed will not be suitable for apartment living.
What is the lifespan of the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
The lifespan of the Cane Corso is generally between 10 to 12 years. The lifespan for the Bullmastiff can vary between 8-10 years.
This means that the probable lifespan for a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is between 9-11 years. Sadly the larger examples of the breed will tend towards the lower lifespan.
What are the potential health issues for a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
Mixed breed dogs are potentially healthier than classic breeds of dogs, but it is still important to be aware of some of the health complications that can afflict the parent breeds. This will heighten awareness of how best to care for your dog in consultation with a vet.
Potential health problems for the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix include:
- Coronary Heart Disease and other related heart conditions
- Gastric Torsion (bloating)
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia.
- Bone cancer
- Brain tumors
- Corneal erosion
What kind of training is required for a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
The Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is very likely to have a sprightly but balanced temperament which will lend itself well to training.
If the Bullmastiff does have a reputation for being stubborn, but owners of this breed argue that this is largely unfair. They do require a little more patience but they can be trained to a very good standard. The Cane Corso is widely celebrated as almost uniquely amongst Mastiff breeds not having this characteristic stubbornness.
Additionally both parent breeds as close guard dogs will have natural recall and a constant eagerness to look to their owners for leadership and praise.
This means that the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will be a dog able to be trained to a good standard. In keeping with their heritage of the parent breeds as having a measure of independence on the hunt, this dog is likely to pull on the lead, so leash training and heel work will be a priority.
A conscientious owner will also ensure early socialization is consistent and wide-ranging. This will ensure that this hybrid breed’s highly developed guarding instincts are fully compatible with welcoming guests to the house and this dog being well-disposed to unfamiliar fellow canines in the park. This will be helped by a fundamentally benign and kind nature that both parent breeds will pass on to this dog.
Training for separation anxiety should also be prioritized for the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix to avoid genuine distress for your dog and any destructive behaviors in the house.
Click here for an outline of the benefits of training. Click here for information on socializing a puppy and here for socializing an adult dog.
For an impressive example of the potential of this breed to be trained and socialized even after a difficult start feel free to watch this heart-warming video detailing an Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix dog called Deimos. Click here to see his training transformation.
How big will a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix get?
The height range of the Cane Corso is generally between 24-27.5 inches (60-69cm) for the male with the female only slightly shorter between around 23-26 inches (58-66 cm) from feet to withers. The height of the Bullmastiff male is set at around 25-27 inches (63-69cm) and the female around 24-26 inches (61-66 cm).
A Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix male is likely to reach the following sizes:
Male – 26-28 inches (66cm-71cm )
Female – 24-26 inches (61-66cm)
How much is a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix likely to weigh?
For the Cane Corso the weight should be proportionate to the height of the dog to achieve the preferred leaner working appearance at around 88-110 lb (40-50kg). The male Bullmastiff weighs anything between 115-130 lbs (52-59kgs) with the female weighing in at around 105-120lbs (48-54kgs).
This means that an adult Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix is likely to weigh:
- Male: 140 lb to 180 lb (64-82 kg)
- Female: 120lb 170lb (54-77kg)
Where should I get a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix from?
If you are looking for a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix puppy then always contact a reputable breeder. You should always have the opportunity to see the puppies interacting with the mother. If there is little interaction with the ‘mother’ be cautious as occasionally unscrupulous breeders can bring in another female dog for appearances. A breeder should also have details of the father available on request.
In addition you should have access to the medical records of both parents and any kennel club certificates.
If possible, adoption is a kind and rewarding option. But ensure that you thoughtfully discuss the details of a rescue dog with the charity or rehoming organization in order to offer a dog an appropriate forever home.
If you already have a dog , then please feel free to browse these tips on how to introduce a puppy to an older dog.
What are the feeding requirements of a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
It is always a good idea to consult with a vet or animal dietician regarding feeding requirements in the early days of ownership, as each dog will be unique. This will ensure that your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will receive a balanced diet in the correct portions. It is also important to balance feeding against exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
As noted in the exercise section both the Bullmastiff and the Cane Corso can suffer from gastric torsion (bloating). This means exercise should be carefully planned not to coincide within an hour either before or after eating to fully protect your dog from this potentially life-threatening condition. If you have any concerns or want extra information on this then consult a vet for advice at the earliest opportunity.
Should I get a male or female Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
Each dog is unique, so the following only offers a general guide rather than a rule but male and female dogs can have different dispositions. In general the female Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix will tend to be slightly more playful, active and boisterous. The female will tend to be more calm and focused and will mature more quickly.
Both dogs will be incredibly loyal always looking to be near their owners and happy as long as their humans are safe and comfortable.
What colors are common for a Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix?
- In general the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix can be a variety of solid or partial colors but the following are the most common:
black - grey
- stag-red
- fawn
- apricot
- brindle
- grey
The Bullmastiff has a dark mask to the face which may be inherited.
Does a Cane Corso Bull Mastiff Mix get on with other dogs?
This large mixed breed will get along with other dogs in the household, but ensure you follow clear steps in introducing established dogs to a puppy or another dog.
If that there is an established dog in the house who is small, however, ensure that socialization is put in place with the puppy so it continues to be sensitive and careful play when it reaches more gargantuan proportions.
Does a Cane Corso Bullmastiff get on with cats?
If sensitively introduced to cats as a puppy then it is often the case that that they can successfully live with these smaller pets. The Cane Corso can naturally have a high prey drive, but this will be offset by the calmer influence of the Bullmastiff who has a relatively low prey drive and so is not inclined to chase smaller animals.
But careful and structured introductions should be put in place to ensure canine-feline harmony in the house. To summarize ensure you take the following steps:
Step 1
This introduction should start with putting down items that belong to the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix puppy before the arrival to accustom the cats to the scent.
Step 2
Confine the puppy to a specific area in the house using a baby gate or other suitable barrier. This should certainly include at feeding times. This could be a room with a baby-gate. The area of confinement should be swapped around the house as well as a safely enclosed outside area.
Step 3
When ready allow the puppy out on an appropriate leash or harness and proactively praise positive interactions and correct any chasing.
Step 4
Ensure the cats always have escape areas including high places to promote their sense of confidence and safety.
Does the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix make a good guard dog for the home?
This Cane Corso Mastiff Mix will prove to be an absolute natural as a canine guardian of the family and the home. This dog will also be a formidable prospect for any intruder and at the same time be entirely biddable.
This dog will always look to their humans for guidance so any welcome guests will be entirely safe.
Where can I found out more?
If you are considering a hybrid breed such as the Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix always research both founding breeds to ensure that you are fully prepared for the arrival of your dog and nuance your training and lifestyle provision for your exciting new canine family member accordingly.
Please feel free to browse our breed guide for more information on the Cane Corso, Bullmastiff and other breeds. Also a good breeder should be willing to offer you advice and guidance when you take your puppy home.
As noted above if you have any queries or doubts regarding the health or feeding of your Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix puppy consult a professional vet or animal dietician at the earliest opportunity.
Links:
American Bullmastiff Association (USA)
American Bullmastiff Rescue Association Rescue Service (USA)
Bullmastiff Rescue and Adoption UK (UK)
Cane Corso Rescue (USA)
Must Love Corsos Rescue (USA)
