Physical Attributes
Male & Female: 18-22 inches (46-58cm)
Male & Female: 75-101 lb (34-45 kg) with the female averaging around 10 lb lighter.
Cane Corso:
Working Group
English Bulldog:
Non-Sporting Group
Lifestyle Guidance:
Reasons to get a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix
- Lovable dog with a mischievous sense of fun (Click here for details)
- Devoted family dog (Click here for details)
- Average exercise requirements suiting owners who do not very active lifestyles (Click here for details)
- A calm and balanced temperament (Click here for details)
- Minimal grooming requirements (Click here for details)
- An effective guard dog (Click here for details)
Reasons not to get a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix
- Not suitable for novice owners
- Will need a secure outdoor space
- May occasionally be aggressive and domineering towards other dogs
- These dogs do not like being left alone – will need almost constant human companionship
- Some potential health issues linked to Mastiff heritage
What is a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
This sturdy, powerful and exuberant mixed breed is a wonderful blend of the Cane Corso and the English Bulldog. Both parent breeds bring Mastiff genes with them forming the perfect partnership of a strong and athletic dog who has a calm and even temperament.
As with any hybrid it is always important to research the parent breeds, the Cane Corso and the English Bulldog, in order to be in position to have guidance on both the physical attributes and the temperament. This is because there is no exact science to predict which characteristics will predominate and how they will be configured in any particular dog.
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.
For an idea of how this hybrid breed may look please click here for video footage of a Cane Corso mixed with an Old English Bulldog.
What are the history and origins of the Cane Corso English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog.
The English Bulldog- Origins
Sadly, while the Cane Corso left its dog fighting roots way behind in the ruins of Ancient Rome, the English Bulldog continued to be involved in cruel sports such as bear and cattle baiting. Following this, as dog fighting became popular in the eighteenth and nineteenth century, this stocky, combative dog gained huge popularity in the fighting pits of England. Fortunately this ‘sport’ was abolished in 1835, but deprived of its core purpose, the English Bulldog nearly went extinct following this ban.
But we can thank a group of enthusiasts for preserving this wonderful and iconic breed. They formed what became known as the Bulldog Club and employed continued selective breeding aimed to keep the breed’s endearing characteristics. At the same time they suppressed aggressive tendencies. The result today is a much-loved breed recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1873. The American Kennel Club quickly followed in 1886. According to AKC registration data the English Bulldog is currently the 5th most popular breed in the United States [1].
Across the pond, the English Bulldog was soon adopted as the national breed of Britain . It is celebrated for its qualities of determination, tenacity and toughness. In the fighting arena, this small and powerful dog was indomitable and it refused to be intimidated by any bigger adversary.
Hence the war-time British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, was named ‘The British Bulldog’ characterizing his strong leadership during the second world war. Although his jowly looks certainly contributed to this nickname! This historic figure has since reciprocated and a number of Bulldogs are still to this day named ‘Winston’ or ‘Churchill’ in honor of the great man.
The Cane Corso – Origins
The Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, 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 Bulldog fulfilled the same role 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 Neapolitan Mastiff Mix, Cane Corso English Mastiff Mix, Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix, Cane Corso English Bullmastiff Mix, Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix, Cane Corso Doberman Mix.
What is an interesting fact about the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
The Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix offers a fascinating combination from two breeds, the Cane Corso and English Bulldog, that share the genetic inheritance of the ancient Mastiff. They also unsurprisingly since form follows function, were both used in driving cattle in Italy and England respectively. These dogs used their powerful jaws to nip at the cattle’s legs in order to prompt them forward.
So the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix is another fascinating example of breeds with common ancient ancestry coming together in one sturdy and muscular package.
What is the temperament and personality of the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
Both the Cane Corso and the English Bulldog have historically similar roles, not only in driving cattle, but also in protecting farms and homes. This means that both these founding breeds like to be close to their owners. So you can expect the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix to be a ‘velcro dog’ who will closely shadow their owners around the house. This dog will absolutely dote on their owners and are intensely loyal.
The English Bulldog does have a reputation for being a little stubborn, and this again may be associated with its Mastiff heritage. But the Cane Corso is celebrated as being an exception to this Mastiff tendency, so a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix should generally be biddable. But both of the founding breeds do have a reputation for being a little sensitive.
This means that the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix will require consistent and patient training. A firm but gentle approach combined by the fact that this hybrid breed will have an unrelenting eagerness to please their owners will also enhance trainability.
But the English Bulldog has a reputation for being a comical and good-natured dog and this combined with the natural playfulness of the Cane Corso is likely to lead to a lovely family dog who is a big goofball. This dog will love a game around tug or fetch. The hybrid dog will prove an amiable family companion excellent with children, and good with other animals such as cats.
But although the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix is likely to be very goofy, this dog will be powerful and accidents could happen, particularly with small children. This makes early socialization an absolute to avoid accidents between this huge hound and other canine, human and even feline members of the family.
The Cane Corso is a very high-energy breed who has very high exercise requirements. But the English Bulldog by contrast is a very low-energy and laid-back dog. This means this hybrid breed is likely to fall somewhere in the middle and provide a somewhat calmer version of Mastiff than offered by the Cane Corso.
But the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix will still need exercise and the opportunity to amble around off the leash. They will also enjoy some interactive play and short daily obedience drills to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
In terms of strangers, the Cane Corso is known to tend towards being suspicious and aloof. But this will be offset by the natural friendliness of the English Bulldog. This dog has a very gentle temperament and have been bred even during their fighting past to be human-oriented.
But you can expect this dog to bark an alarm and to become protective if family members are in any way stressed or anxious owing to the presence of an unfamiliar person. This blend of personalities also means the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix will offer a dog willing to tackle unwanted strangers, but entirely biddable with welcome guests.
The Cane Corso can be a little domineering and occasionally aggressive to unfamiliar dogs, particularly if they are the same gender. This is also true of the English Bulldog, albeit to a lesser degree. It will therefore be important to socialize this dog from an early age to ensure harmonious canine interactions out on walks or in the park.
But both dogs can happily live with smaller animals and other dogs. 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.
This dog is very likely to suit a family or single owner who want a big dog who requires only an average amount of exercise and walking (unless the Cane Corso is heavily favored). Their energy levels and exercise are likely to be roughly equivalent to a Mastiff type dog like the Dogue de Bordeaux or Bullmastiff. But any prospective owners will need to have the physical strength to manage this dog, as well as the time to invest in training and socialization.
For the different stages in a puppy and adult dog’s development please click here.
What exercise is required for the Cane Corso English Bulldog?
It is a little hard to be precise with a hybrid dog but the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix is likely to have around average exercise requirements. The Cane Corso is on the active end of the Mastiff scale, while the Bulldog is low-energy.
This means this dog is likely to need around a walk of an hour each day in addition to interactive play including tugging and chasing games.
If possible this dog would also benefit from 20 minutes of obedience training a day to provide additional mental stimulation.
Is the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix a good family dog?
With the right training and socialization in place, the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix promises to be a wonderful family pet. The Cane Corso really does deserve the title ‘man’s best friend’ as they are absolutely devoted to their humans At the same time the English Bulldog is highly affectionate and with a laid back temperament.
The hybrid breed therefore promises to be a moderately energetic family dog who dotes on all members of its human pack while at the same time maintaining a consistent desire to be at the center of everything.
The Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix will be playful but over zealous or boisterous. This dog will also be tolerant and patient with children, although as with all breeds, interaction must be carefully supervised.
Who is the ideal owner of a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
The ideal owner of this hybrid breed will be someone who has experience of large breeds and who is willing to invest the time in socialization and training this dog as a puppy.
The Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix promises to be a very powerful dog who will need consistent obedience training to ensure that this dog is fully manageable outside the house
This dog is likely to have a balanced temperament but will still be large and so an owner will need a secure, outdoor space to allow this dog room in which to explore and amble around.
This dog will not suit owners who cannot be at home for most of the time. Otherwise they are very likely to suffer from terrible separation anxiety and may even exhibit destructive behaviors around the house reflecting their distress.
This hybrid breed, particularly when you thrown in the Bulldog’s reputation for stubbornness, will require strong canine leadership. Any less experienced dog owners should prioritize attendance at puppy training classes and be prepared to invest the time in learning how to train and care for this magnificent hybrid breed.
What are the grooming requirements of the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
The Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix will have very minimal grooming requirements. The short coat is only likely to require a weekly brushing.
But be aware that the English Bulldog is brachycephalic, so has a short muzzle that is not as efficient cooling through panting. So this hybrid breed may suffer in hot weather and brushing should then take place daily to remove dead hair and improve air circulation around the body . Please click here for other tips on keeping your dog safe in hot weather.
There is also a chance that the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix may inherit some wrinkling from the English Bulldog. If so it is important to clean around the face and eyes carefully. This is particularly crucial after eating to avoid a build-up of bacteria and possible infection.
How much space is required for a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
The Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix is likely to be a medium to large dog. Due to the Cane Corso inheritance this dog will be active, and would ideally have a secure outdoor space for interactive play.
For these reasons this hybrid breed is not recommended for apartment living.
What is the lifespan of the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
The lifespan of the Cane Corso is generally between 10 to 12 years. While the English Bulldog has a lifespan of around 9-12 years.
This means that the probable lifespan for a Cane Corso English Bulldog is between 9-12 years.
What are the potential health issues for a Cane Corso English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog Mix in order to have a higher awareness of how best to care for your dog in consultation with a vet.
But it is very important to keep these dogs fit. The Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix will need a good amount of exercise particularly as they are notoriously keen on their food. So care must be taken to ensure that they do not put on weight. A heavy dog will put extra pressure on ligaments and joints. This can lead to protracted and painful health complications.
A possible concern for a conscientious owner of this hybrid breed is that the English Bulldog is brachycephalic. This means that they have very short snouts and squashed features, and could potentially be inherited to some extent in this dog. This can cause labored breathing, so this should be monitored at all times.
Also breathing difficulties are exacerbated by hot weather. The short snouts do not allow for enough panting for cooling. It is strongly advised that you keep your dog cool.
Other potential health problems for the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix include: cardiomyopathy, CHD and other related heart conditions linked to the Mastiff breeds in general. They might also be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Other issues afflicting this hybrid breed may include allergies and eye conditions such as cherry-eye and PRA.
What kind of training is required for a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
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 and occasional aggression towards other dogs which is a characteristic of both the Cane Corso and the English Bulldog.
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.
But with this genetic inheritance, it is very likely that the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix can be trained to a good standard. But be aware that both founding breeds
This hybrid breed will be more relaxed and comfortable at home if frequently mentally stimulated with fetching games based around balls or a Frisbee. Both breeds have herding background lodged in their past so will enjoy any obedience based trials or dog sports. It is advised that on any walks these dogs are offered includes obedience drills to help their socialization and ensure they are fully biddable outside of their home.
Due to their strength and bulk, it will also be important to prioritize leash training and heel work. This dog will also enjoy exploring off-leash so recall training also needs to be consistently introduced early on
A Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix, particularly if the English Bulldog’s reputation for stubbornness features strongly, may mean a tendency to test boundaries. But their sensitive temperaments dictate that training needs to be focused around positive enforcement with lots of praise heaped upon them for desired responses and behaviors.
Training for separation anxiety should also be prioritized for the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix both for their mental welfare to avoid 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.
How big will a Cane Corso English Bulldog 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 stout and muscular English Bulldog stands at around 13-16 inches (33-45cm).
This means that the height of the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix may vary significantly depending on which founding breed is favored. But it is likely to range between around 18-22 inches (46-58cm) with the female only slightly shorter.
How much is a Cane Corso English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog weighs in at around 50lb (22.5 kg) with the female lighter at around 40lb (18kg).
This means that an adult Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix is likely to weigh somewhere between 75-101 lb (34-45 kg) with the female averaging around 10 lb lighter.
Where should I get a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix from?
If you are looking for a Cane Corso English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog Mix will receive a balanced diet in the correct portions. It is also important to balance feeding against exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
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 full protect your Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix 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 English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog Mix tends to be slightly less domineering and boisterous in play. Although both genders can occasionally be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs of the same sex.
Both genders offer a devoted family dog able to protect the household if necessary.
What colors are common for a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix?
In general the Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix can be any solid or partial color, although black, brindle, or fawn are the common colors they may inherit from the founding breeds.
Does a Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix get on with other dogs?
This Cane Corso English Bulldog will certainly able to cohabit with other dogs. This is also true of both founding breeds but ensure you follow clear steps in introducing established dogs to a puppy or another dog.
The Cane Corso is also full of energy and gregarious with familiar dogs, while the English Bulldog is more laid-back but is able to make canine friends very easily.
If there is already an established dog in the household and they are 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 English Bulldog 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. The Cane Corso can naturally have a high prey drive, but this will be tempered by the English Bulldog who has now has a very low prey drive. But 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 English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog Mix make a good guard dog for the home?
This Cane Corso English Bulldog Mix will certainly provide a reliable and sturdy guardian of the family and the home. The English Bulldog is a people-oriented dog with a friendly disposition but the Mastiff inheritance also makes this dog protective of the family.
The Cane Corso background should also mean that this dog has the healthy suspicion of strangers upon which effective guardianship of the home depends.
This sturdy and muscular hybrid breed will therefore prove hard to beat as a deterrent to any would-be intruders.
Where can I found out more?
If you are considering a hybrid breed such as the Cane Corso English Bulldog 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, English Bulldog 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 English Bulldog Mix puppy consult a professional vet or animal dietician at the earliest opportunity.
Links:
Bulldog Club of America (USA)
Bulldog Rescue Network (USA)
Cane Corso Rescue (USA)
Must Love Corsos Rescue (USA)
Cane Corso UK and Molosser Rescue (UK)
Bulldog Rescue and Rehoming (UK)
