Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix – Complete Guide with 22 Questions Answered

Physical Attributes

Lifestyle Guidance:

Average

★★★★★

Good

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Minimal

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Below Average

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Very Good

★★★★★

Not suitable

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Reasons to get a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix

• Highly trainable and eager to please (Click here for details)
• A very good family dog (Click here for details)
• A balanced temperament (Click here for details)
• Suitable for owners and families who are active (Click here for details)
• Tolerant and patient with children (Click here for details)
• An excellent guard dog (Click here for details)

Reasons not to get a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix

• Not suited for novice owners
• A very strong and powerful dog unsuited to owners who are frail or elderly
• Expensive food bills
• Some males may occasionally be aggressive or domineering

What is a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

The Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff breeds are very closely intertwined both genetically and historically so that any hybrid is not going to diverge too far from the breed standards of its parent breeds.

What are the history and origins of the Cane Corso Neapolitan 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.

The Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff both descend from an earlier version of Italian Mastiff. This dog cultivated by the Roman Empire is thought to be a combination of the powerful Molossus breeds used as war dogs and for hunting and earlier versions of the English Mastiff which impressed the Romans during their occupation of Britain.Over the following centuries some of these dogs were streamlined to increase their athleticism for the hunt. These became known in as the ‘Cane’ (dog) Corso ‘hunt’ or ‘catch’, although they were still employed in protecting farms. The others kept a slightly heavier muscularity and larger size and specialized exclusively as protection dogs. These became known as the Neapolitan Mastiff.

But, as with any hybrid it is always important to research the founding breeds, the Cane Corso and the Neapolitan Mastiff, 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 a very handsome example of this wonderful hybrid in action 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.

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 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 Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

The Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff are so closely related that this dog is hardly a mixed breed at all. In fact you could argue that this hybrid dog could be described equally well as a lighter and more agile Neapolitan Mastiff or a heavier and stockier Cane Corso.

This is because both of these wonderful dogs descend from the Italian Mastiff. It is thought, however, that the Neapolitan Mastiff may have been influenced by the English Mastiff giving it a heavier and bulkier frame.

What is the temperament and personality of the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

Although they have so much in common, the Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff do have recognisably different temperaments.

The well-muscled Neapolitan Masiff is certainly very deserving of the title of ‘gentle giant’. This dog has a gentle and affectionate nature combined with a laid back temperament. But at the same time the Neapolitan Mastiff remains a brilliant watch-dog. Even if docile and calm at home this is a very alert dog who has very pronounced guarding instincts and is always alert.

But the Cane Corso, due its more hunting focused background, has developed a far higher prey drive and energy level. These dogs are at the very high end of the Mastiff spectrum for being active, unlike the Neapolitan Mastiff which is happy to lounge around for most of the day.

This means that the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix could offer a happy medium of being moderately active, without being quite as boisterous as the Cane Corso. Although it is possible that this hybrid will heavily favor one or the other parent breed.

What you can guarantee, however, is that this dog will be fiercely loyal and protective providing an excellent guard dog. Both the Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff are distrustful of strangers although they have different styles in their approach to fending off unwanted visitors to the home.

Like its cousin breed, the English Mastiff, the Neapolitans are reluctant to bite unless in extreme circumstances and are more likely to use their bulk and huge heads to move people away if they feel threatened. But they will attack if they sense any fear from or threat towards their human pack. They will also sound a sonorous alarm if anyone unfamiliar approaches the house.

But the Cane Corso in ‘catch-dog’s style generally takes a more direct approach and will quite quickly go into attack-mode while protecting the home and the family.

The good news is that both the founding breeds lack the characteristic stubbornness of Mastiff breeds and are trainable and biddable. This means the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix can be fully controlled should welcome visitors arrive.

The Cane Corso is very active dog who needs plenty of mental and physical stimulation to ensure that they are calm and relaxed as a pet in a home environment. This means that the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mix is very likely to be more active than the standard Neapolitan Mastiff. 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.

Both the Cane Corso and the Neapolitan Mastiff can be sensitive so 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.

Inside the home the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff 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.

With all this in place this hybrid 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 Cane Corso Neapolitan Mix is another whose home is where their humans are. This means that they are 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 please click here.

What exercise is required for the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

It is important that a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix should be kept lean and healthy and this requires a good level of physical and mental exercise.

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. But the Neapolitan Mastiff is a far more typical Mastiff happy with around an hours walking and from then on a slow patrol around the boundaries of your home.

This means you should plan for this hybrid breed to have in excess of an hour’s walking each day with some interactive play offered through puzzle games and toys, as well as ‘treasure hunts’ and similar activities which involve challenge.

It is also worth noting that 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 Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff.

Is the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix a good family dog?

If you are looking for a moderately active dog who is absolutely devoted to the family and wants to be at the center of everything then the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix would offer an excellent choice.

This 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.

Both founding breeds have a reputation for being tolerant and patient with children, although as with all breeds, interaction must be carefully supervised. This dog may not be ideal for households with very small children as this dog will be very strong and powerful and may accidentally cause injury during play.

Who is the ideal owner of a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

Any experience with large and powerful breeds would be hugely beneficial for a prospective owner of a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix. Also, due to its size, power and natural desire 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.

The Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff Mix will not generally suite novice owners as they need 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 awe-inspiring hybrid breed.

What are the grooming requirements of the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

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

Those dogs who favor the Neapolitan Mastiff may have some wrinkling around the face. This area should be cleaned regularly as part of a grooming routine, particularly after eating to avoid lingering food particles causing any infection.

How much space is required for a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

The Cane Corso Neapolitan Mix is going to need a lot of space. This is a large dog, and the Cane Corso influence may well introduce a higher activity level.

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 Neapolitan Mastiff Mix is not recommended for apartment living.

What is the lifespan of the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

The lifespan of the Cane Corso is generally between 10 to 12 years. For the Neapolitan Mastiff the lifespan is shorter at around 8-10 years.

This means that the probable lifespan for a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff Mix in order to have a higher awareness of how best to care for your dog in consultation with a vet.

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

What kind of training is required for a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

The Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix is likely to be a biddable dog who will do well in training.

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.

This dog may also pull on the leash a little, so training to this dog to heels should be foregrounded. Socialization with other dogs will help avert some of the domineering and aggressive behaviors associated with both founding breeds.

This dog may be a little sensitive in training, and the Neapolitan Mastiff influence could introduce some stubbornness. This means an approach based around positive reinforcement will be essential.

Training for separation anxiety should also be prioritized for the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mix 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 Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff stands at around 27-32 inches (69-82cm), while the female is smaller ranging from around 24-27 inches (61-68cm) from feet to withers.

A Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix male is likely to be very large reaching somewhere between 26-30 inches (66 -76 cm) from feet to withers. While the female is likely to be slightly shorter at between 24-27 inches (61 – 69cm).

How much is a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff usually weighs upward of around 155lbs (70 kg) while the female generally weighs in excess of 105lbs (48kg).

This means that an adult male Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix is likely to weigh somewhere around 130 lb (59 kg) with the female somewhere around 100 lbs (45 kg).

Where should I get a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix from?

If you are looking for a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff Mix will tend to be slightly less domineering and boisterous in play. The female will also tend to mature more quickly and be a little more focused in training.

The female is also likely to be slightly less stand-offish with strangers. But both genders offer an adoring, protective family dog.

What colors are common for a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix?

In general the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix can be a variety of solid or partial colors but the following colors are common:

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

Does a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix get on with other dogs?

This breed are 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.

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.

This hybrid breed dog may exhibit some aggressive and dominant behaviors towards unfamiliar dogs but these can be curbed through consistent socialization.

Does a Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff and the Cane Corso can naturally have a high prey drive, so the Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Masiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff Mix make a good guard dog for the home?

This Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix will be hard to beat as a guard dog. This dog is not only hugely powerful but will also be a reliable, vigilant and biddable in protecting both family and home.

Add to this that both founding breeds are naturally suspicious of strangers. So with the muscular build of the Neapolitan Mastiff 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 Neapolitan Mastiff 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, Neapolitan Mastiff 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:

Mastino Rescue, Inc (USA)
Neapolitan Mastiff Rescue (International)

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

Cane Corso UK and Molosser Rescue (UK)