Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix (French Mastiff) – 22 Questions Answered

Physical Characteristics

Lifestyle Guidance:

High

★★★★★

Good

★★★★★

Minimal

★★★★★

Below Average

★★★★★

Very Good

★★★★★

Not suitable

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Reasons to get a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix

• A good family dog patient and tolerant with children (Click here for details)
• Completely devoted and loyal temperament (Click here for details)
• High energy dog that will suit those with an active lifestyle (Click here for details)
• Excellent guard dog (Click here for details)
• Gets along with cats and other small pets (Click here for details)

Reasons not to get a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix

• Not suited for the novice dog owner
• Not suitable for the frail or elderly
• Not ideal for the house proud as there may be some drool
• Expensive food requirements
• Needs human companionship most of the time

What is a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

The Cane Corso (aka Italian Corso) and the Dogue de Bordeaux (aka French Mastiff) can certainly be classed as continental cousin breeds. Both certainly descended from the ancient Roman Molosser war-dogs. But the Dogue de Bordeux development then becomes a complex and shrouded in the veils of history.

But, as with all Mastiff breeds, they do have both shared genetic and historical heritage as prized guard dogs but with the versatility to be used as ‘catcher-dogs’ hunting down big game.

This means you can expect a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix to have all the power, muscularity and single-minded fearlessness of a Mastiff. But at the same time both the founding breeds, the Cane Corso and the Dogue de Bordeaux have a reputation for being two of the more trainable breeds amongst the Mastiffs.

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix therefore offers a very exciting prospect of a large family dog, able to protect and guard, but also responsive and adaptable as long as consistent training is put in place.

For some video footage of some beautiful Cane Corso X Dogue de Bordeaux puppies then please click here.

For more information regarding the founding breeds and a whole range of other wonderful types of dogs please feel free to visit our breed guide.

What are the history and origins of the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux.

The Cane Corso – Origins and History

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.

Dogue de Bordeaux – Origins and History

The Dogue de Bordeaux is thought to be one of the oldest surviving breeds from France although many consider that it was the English invaders during the 14th and 15th centuries that created this breed by mixing English Mastiffs and Bulldogs with native French breeds.

Others maintain that Roman Molosser breeds that gave rise to the Italian Mastiff, English Mastiff and the Spanish Mastiff were also extant in France, most likely introduced via the Roman occupation beginning with Julius Caesar in the 1st century BC. It was directly from them, possibly with some intermingling with other Mastiffs or native French breeds that the Dogue de Bordeaux emerged. But the exact truth is lost in the mists of time. But what we can say with certainty is that the name is taken from the concentration of these dogs in the South Western Regions of France around Bordeaux.

These dogs were used for hunting as ‘catcher-dogs’ for boar, deer and other large prey (similar to the Great Dane and Rottweiler in Northern Europe). The role of these ‘catcher dogs’ was to grab and slow down prey already spotted by the faster sight-hounds before the arrival of the hunters. They were also used as guard dogs on aristocratic estates, usually accompany gatekeepers in patrolling and fending off poachers and other intruders. But following the French Revolution in 1789 this role was greatly reduced.

Also used as cart dogs (similar to the Rottweiler in Germany). Like the Italian Mastiffs, the Cane Corso and the Neapolitan Mastiff, as well as the English Mastiff in the United Kingdom, during WW1 and WWII (where they used to pull the wounded and dead from the battlefield) they declined to the point where it is thought that were only a few pairs remaining. This was possibly due to the hefty food requirements of these large dogs during the hardships brought on by war. By 1946 both these breeds had almost disappeared and it is thought there were only around 500 remaining.

But, fortunately, a slender flame of breed awareness was maintained throughout this barren period for the ‘French Mastiff’. In 1863 an exhibition in France celebrating native breeds featured this dog and it was at this point that it was proudly claimed as a national breed with the official conferring of the name ‘Dogue de Bordeaux’.  

An article written in 1982 by Dr. Carl Semencic, an American Academic, first opened the door to interest in this breed in the USA and the Dogue de Bordeaux began to gain a delicate paw-hold in the country in the 1980s. This was further promoted in cultural consciousness with the starring of a ‘Dogue de Bordeaux’ in the film Turner and Hooch in 1989 [1]. This French Mastiff was officially recognized by the AKC in 2008 and is currently ranked at a very respectable 71st based on 2020 registration data [2].

Linked Hybrid Breeds:
Cane Corso Great Dane Mix, Cane Corso German Shepherd Mix, Cane Corso Boxer Mix,
Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix, Cane Corso English Mastiff Mix, Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix,
Cane Corso English Bullmastiff Mix, Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix, Cane Corso Doberman Mix.

What is the temperament and personality of the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

The Dogue de Bordeaux is powerful and robust dog is very similar in temperament to its cousin breed the Neapolitan Mastiff. But like the Cane Corso this is a Mastiff which is relatively high energy which is an inheritance of their hunting background.

This means that the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux dog is going to be an active dog who could potentially be demanding in terms of time spent in interactive play and exercise. But if this is provided this dog will prove to be good company in the home.

This dog promises to be a ‘gentle giant’ with a calm, balanced temperament. But this hybrid breed will still be constantly alert with very pronounced guarding instincts. The Dogue de Bordeaux tends to be less instinctively wary of strangers than is typical for the Mastiff guard types. This will be balanced against the Cane Corso’s natural distrust of unfamiliar people.

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix therefore offers the perfect middle-ground for a protection dog. This loyal canine will be prepared to leap into action if necessary, but will look to its owners for direction. This balance will make socializing this dog to accept welcome visitors relatively straightforward. With a loud deep bark, this hybrid breed will also sound a sonorous alarm if anyone unfamiliar approaches the house.

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix will also be entirely devoted, affectionate and loyal making them excellent family dogs. Both of the founding breeds have traditionally been close-quarter guarding breeds and do much better if they are kept inside as part of a loving family rather than outside as working guard dogs.

This hybrid breed is almost guaranteed to be a huge ‘velcro dog’ and will shadow family members all day. At rest they will lay as close as possible to their human pack and will be constantly tactile and affectionate.

Inside the home the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mastiff Mix will adore the children in the family but must be trained to be careful due to their size and bulk. 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. This will be helped by the fact that the Dogue de Bordeaux, like the English Mastiff, is a very reluctant biter under any circumstances.

But be aware that these dogs do drool prolifically and can also be clumsy, so a prospective owner will need to Mastiff-proof their house and this hybrid breed many not be suited to the house-proud.

Both the Cane Corso and the Dogue de Bordeaux breeds can be sensitive. This means training must be based around positive reinforcement in order to ensure that this powerful hybrid breed is a good canine citizen outside the home. 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 dogs.

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix will do well in a multi-canine household. But be aware that the male hybrid may clash with other large male dogs as they can be domineering.

Although both the Cane Corso and Dogue de Bordeaux inherit a high prey drive from their hunting heritage, owners report that these breeds will happily cohabit with other dogs and smaller animals. This means the hybrid breed is likely to be disposed to be a friend to both canine and feline alike and happily view them as part of their pack. 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 Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix is another dog whose home is where their humans are. But be aware that the Dogue de Bordeaux, like the English Mastiff, does not like any change in routine. But this will be offset by the more adventurous spirit of the Cane Corso. This means that they are likely to be adaptable and will not be anxious by a change in routine or setting on a dog-getaway holiday.

For the different stages in a puppy and adult dog’s development of their temperament and character please click here.

What exercise is required for the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

A Cane Corso is the most active of the Mastiffs, largely gained from its hunting heritage, and should receive around 1.5 hours of walking each day and this ideally should include games such as fetching games such as Frisbee and ball games. The Dogue de Bordeaux is also relatively active for a Mastiff breed and requires in excess of an hour walking, ideally with an opportunity to roam and explore off-leash.

This means you should expect to walk a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix for up to 90 minutes each day. As a relatively active Mastiff this hybrid breed will also need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to ensure that they are calm and relaxed as a pet in a home environment. So this dog will benefit from interactive play at home, alongside opportunities for games based around fetching and tugging. If possible around 20 minutes a day of obedience training will provide further stimulation.

It is also worth noting that the Cane Corso and the Dogue de Bordeaux can suffer from gastric torsion (bloating). This means exercise should be carefully planned not to coincide within an hour either before or after eating in order to fully protect this hybrid breed.

Also be aware that any large Mastiff needs an exercise regime that will prevent overweight. This will avoid extra strain on the heart as well as joints and ligaments. These can become serious issues for these breeds as outlined in the health issues section.

Is the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix a good family dog?

In keeping with the Mastiff heritage of the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix, this dog will make an absolutely excellent family pet.

Although if considering this hybrid breed ensure that you have time to offer this dog the relatively high level of exercise required alongside interactive play.

TThis dog will be fiercely protective of the family and very eager to please. But they will need an investment in training and socialization to ensure they are not over-protective and are well-disposed towards welcome guests.

If this is in place, this huge hound will be a loving member of the family. Both the Cane Corso and Dogue de Bordeaux have a reputation for being tolerant and patient with children.

This means the balanced and calm Cane Corso Doge de Bordeaux Mix promises to be an enthusiastic but considerate and safe play-mate for smaller human members of the family. Although as with all breeds, interaction must be carefully supervised. Also be aware that very small children may inadvertently be injured by this large dog.

Who is the ideal owner of a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

The ideal owner will be active, and any experience with large and powerful breeds would be hugely beneficial. Also, due to the size, power and natural desire of this dog to patrol and protect a property, it is highly preferable that any home for this dog has a secure outside area.

An owner will need to invest time in socializing and training this hybrid breed to fully ensure that this dog is adaptable and biddable both within and outside the home. This hybrid breed can be trained to a good standard, but on occasions will have a mind of its own, so the training regime will need to be consistent and ongoing.

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix is dog with heritage from breeds designed for close protection of people. This means they they will be happiest when in close proximity to their human owners. This also means they 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 this dog 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.

As you might expect with a hybrid with a Mastiff background, the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mastiff Mix will not generally suite novice owners as they need strong canine leadership.

What are the grooming requirements of the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix will have very minimal grooming requirements. The short coat is only likely to require a weekly brushing.

Those dogs who favor the Dogue de Bordeaux may have some wrinkling to the forehead. This area should be cleaned regularly as part of a grooming routine to avoid the build-up of bacteria.

How much space is required for a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix is going to need plenty of room. This is a large dog, and not only is the Cane Corso is an active breed, but the Dogue de Bordeaux is no slouch either.

This means there will ideally be lots of space inside, but this dog will also benefit from a good-sized outdoor area in which to patrol and explore.

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix is not recommended for apartment living.

What is the lifespan of the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

The lifespan of the Cane Corso is generally between 10 to 12 years. The Dogue de Bordeaux has a shorter lifespan of around 7-10 years.

This means that the probable lifespan for a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix is likely to be around 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 Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

Hybrid 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 founding breeds of the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix in order to have a higher awareness of how best to care for your dog in consultation with a vet.

Be aware that the Dogue de Bordeaux is brachycephalic, possibly due to some Bulldog influence in the development of the breed. This may cause some breathing issues and reduces the ability to keep cool through panting. This may affect a hybrid breed who favors this founding breed.

Potential health problems for this dog include: cardiomyopathy and other related heart conditions. They might also be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Other issues afflicting this hybrid breed may include hypothyroidism, gastric torsion, ectropian and entropian.

What kind of training is required for a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix promises to be a dog who, with patience and consistency, can be trained to a good standard. The Cane Corso is arguably the quickest and most able of all Mastiff breeds in training. While the Dogue de Bordeaux can do well in training, but sometimes displays the trademark Mastiff stubbornness.

Early socialization and training will need to be consistent and firm for this large, powerful breed and in order to manage their highly developed guarding instincts. This will ensure harmonious relationships with new people and unfamiliar dogs. Early socialization with other dogs will help avert some of the domineering and aggressive behaviors associated with both founding breeds.

This dog may also pull on the leash a little, so training to this dog to heels should be foregrounded. This dog may occasionally lose focus and get distracted so early work on developing a dog’s focus will help the dog be immediately responsive to commands

As the Cane Corso and the Dogue de Bordeaux are both dogs who were bred for close quarter protection, it is small surprise that they suffer terribly from separation anxiety. Training to cope with separation anxiety should therefore be put in place the earliest opportunity.

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.

How big will a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux 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 male Dogue de Bordeaux stands at around 24-27 inches (61-69cm) at the shoulder with the female only slightly shorter at 23-26 inches (58-66cm).

A Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix male is likely to reach somewhere between 24-27 inches (61-69cm) from feet to withers. While the female is likely to be slightly shorter at between 23-26 inches (58-66cm).

How much is a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux weighs in excess of 105 lbs (47.5 kg) with the female at around 99lbs (45 kg) or more.

This means that an adult male Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix is likely to weigh somewhere around 110 lb (50 kg) with the female somewhere around 90 lbs (40 kg).

Where should I get a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix from?

If you are looking for a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux Mix will tend to be slightly less domineering. The female will also be less disposed to be aggressive towards an unfamiliar dog.

The male dogs are can be more playful and slightly more boisterous than their female counterparts.

What colors are common for a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix?

In general the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix can be a variety of solid or partial colors. But the following are common:

• black
• grey
• stag-red
• fawn
• apricot
• brindle
• grey

It is possible that this dog may inherit a black or brown mask from the Dogue de Bordeaux parent.

Does a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix get on with other dogs?

The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix is able get on with other dogs in the household.

This is also true of both founding breeds 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.

The male of this hybrid breed may exhibit some aggressive and dominant behaviors towards unfamiliar dogs but these can be curbed through consistent socialization.

Does a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix 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. Both the Dogue de Bordeaux and the Cane Corso can naturally have a high prey drive, so the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix is very likely to inherit a natural tendency to chase.

So careful and structured introductions should be put in place to ensure canine-feline harmony in the house.

This introduction should start with putting down items that belong to the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix puppy before the arrival to accustom the cats to the scent.

The next step is to confine the puppy to an area. This should certainly include at feeding times. This could be a room with a baby-gate. The area of confinement should be circulated around the house as well as a safely enclosed outside area.

When ready allow the puppy out on an appropriate leash or harness and proactively praise positive interactions and correct any chasing.

Ensure the cats always have escape areas including high places to promote their sense of confidence and safety.

Does the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix make a good guard dog for the home?

This Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix offers a formidable and very powerful guardian of the home and family. But the mellowness of the Dogue de Bordeaux blended with the more exuberant Cane Corso also promises a dog that can both leap into action if necessary, but also will also not be too impulsive. This means they will look to their owners for guidance ensuring that intended guests are not intimidated by this impressive Mastiff.

Add to this that both founding breeds are naturally suspicious of strangers. So with the hefty muscularity of the Dogue de Bordeaux and the athleticism of the Cane Corso it is hard to think of a better canine deterrent to would-be intruders.

Where can I found out more?

If you are considering a hybrid breed such as the Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux 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, Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Neapolitan Mastiff Mix puppy consult a professional vet or animal dietician at the earliest opportunity.

For a breakdown of the similarities and differences of the founding breeds, the Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff, then please click here.

Links:

Dogue de Bordeaux Rescue Inc (USA)
Dogue de Bordeaux Welfare (UK)

Cane Corso Rescue (USA)
Must Love Corsos Rescue (USA)

Cane Corso UK and Molosser Rescue (UK)