Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix (Rotticorso)- Complete Guide with 24 Questions Answered

Physical Attributes

Lifestyle Guidance:

High

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Very Good

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Minimal

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Below Average

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Good

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Not suitable

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What are the reasons to get a Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix?

• A very alert and balanced temperament (click here for details)
• A good family dog who is fun, playful and tolerant (click here for details)
• Minimal grooming requirements (click here for details)
• Can be trained to a very high standard (click here for details)
• An excellent guard dog (click here for details)
• An energetic dog who will suit owners with an active lifestyle (click here for details)
  

What are the reasons not to get a Cane Corso Rottweiler 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
• Will need consistent training and obedience exercises to be kept stimulated

What is a Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix?

Overview

The Rotticorso offers a blending of two parent breeds, the Cane Corso and the Rottweiler, that both walked with the legions of Rome. This is in itself a testament to their quality as protection and guard dogs.

But fortunately with the decline and fall of Rome, the abilities of both these breeds ensured their survival to this present day. So you can expect the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix to combine their superb qualities in one amazing and exciting package.

With this mixed breed you are effectively inheriting a historic canine legacy that has stood the test of time. Not only that, but the Rotticorso represents the intriguing conjunction of two linked bloodlines, through the Mastiff connection, that have been separated over two millennia.

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. The Rottweiler is effectively a smaller, sturdy mastiff which combines a heavy musculature with a large brain.

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

As the Roman Empire expanded, so did the early forebears of both the parent breeds of this hefty hybrid. Here follows an account of the fascinating history surrounding both the Cane Corso and the Rottweiler.

The Rottweiler – Origins and History

It is generally accepted that the strength and size of the Rottweiler comes directly from early interbreeding of Mastiffs and local shepherding and herding breeds. Originally this is likely to have been Italian Mastiffs from Italy which are also the direct forebears of the Cane Corso.

Others claim that this Mastiff influence on the Rottweiler continued in the Medieval era. Some speculate that the Tibetan Mastiff, brought by invading Huns, may have also contributed to the development of the Rottweiler.

But it is certain that with the founding of the town of Rottweil in Germany in the first century AD, that inscriptions reveal that the breed of dog now known as a Rottweiler was recognized as a distinct and valued breed. The influence of local shepherding breeds making this dog an excellent herder and a versatile breed able to take on a number of roles including protecting and driving cattle.

The Rottweiler is also believed to have swept around 14th century Germany with the order of Swabian Knights.  Their primary purpose here was the dangerous occupation of boar hunting.

In the more modern times the Rottweiler became used for pulling carts as well as guarding and protecting. Indeed this breed became known as the ‘Butcher’s dog’ for their use in delivering meat in small carts as well as protecting the pouches containing the meat-sellers’ earnings which were sometimes tied around the necks of these magnificent dogs.

With the advent of the railway and the move away from transporting livestock on land, these dogs became increasingly rare. But they were saved in the early twentieth century by a group of enthusiasts who promoted their usefulness to both the German military and police force.

The Rottweiler fully proved its worth during WW1.  It was a reliable messenger and deliverer of medical supplies.  This breed  also proved adept at using their tracking skills to locate missing and wounded men. To this day Rottweilers have proven themselves to be expert trackers often winning tracking competitions.  This is in keeping with its heritage as a capable hunting dog of yesteryear.

Later in the 20th century this attractive breed became established and popular.   The American Kennel Club first recognized it as a breed in 1931.  The UK Kennel Club followed suit in 1965. Today the Rottweiler rightfully remains very popular. According to the AKC 2021 registration data, the Rottweiler is currently the 8th most popular breed in the United States [1].

The Cane Corso – Origins and History

The Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, like the Rottweiler 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, Cane Corso Neapolitan Mastiff Mix, Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix, Cane Corso English Mastiff Mix, Cane Corso Bullmastiff Mix, Cane Corso Doberman Mix.

Great Dane Rottweiler Mix.

What is an interesting fact about the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix?

Both the Cane Corso and the Rottweiler emerge from the mists of time and reveal that in every epoch of our history our beloved canines have remained right next to us. Both dogs are modern representatives of the ancient breed of Molosser dogs.

These huge hounds hail from an area of Ancient Greece famed for producing these big, powerful dogs that could be used in both war and hunting. The Romans were always very quick to learn from the Greeks and adapt this learning to facilitate the expansion of their Empire, and the Cane Corso and Rottweiler proved to be invaluable to the legions.

While the forebears of the Cane Corso went into war with their Roman masters, the Rottweilers drove their cattle and guarded both livestock and goods.

It is very likely that both types of dogs would have guarded Roman camps against incursions from both human and large animals such as bears and wolves.

Many Rottweiler breeders and experts confirm that the Italian Mastiff, the direct forebear of the Cane Corso, is present in Rottweiler bloodlines.

What is the temperament and personality of the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix?

With the Rotticorso you are gaining a powerful Mastiff but without the characteristic stubbornness of this group of breeds, and with an added dash of intelligence gained through the Rottweiler influence.

The Rottweiler is not just brawn; it also has plenty of brains.  In Stanley Coren’s ranking of intelligence this breed appeared in the top 10 [2]. The Rottweiler is highly intelligent and responds very well to training.  and is highly valued for its versatility.  Here it rubs its muscular shoulders with dogs like the German Shepherd and the Doberman.  It is an alert dog which has been used for a variety of purposes in the military and police services.

Add to this the fact that the Cane Corso is also considered the most adaptable and trainable of the Mastiff breeds and you can expect the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix to be adaptable and perfectly manageable both inside and outside the home.

This mixed breed dog will also have the many virtues of Mastiff based breeds. Although a formidable protector of the family, this dog is very likely to have a friendly and well-balanced temperament. They will be very eager to please and be highly biddable.

Both parent breeds were bred to live and work closely alongside their humans. This means the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix will want to be as close to their beloved human family as possible. This means that this dog will be very tactile and tend to lean on members of the family or sit close to their feet. They will also want to be at the center of everything.

The herding influence through the Rottweiler also means that they will generally not be a one-person within a family context and will distribute their affections.

These dogs are likely to adore children and will be highly protective of them. The Rotticorso will be an active and playful canine companion, although it is always important to supervise children and dogs at all times.

But remember that these very protective dogs can be suspicious of strangers so socialization from an early age should ensure that this dog is able to recognize that a friend is not a foe.

The Cane Corso Rottweiler mix will have a huge and loving personality but they will require strong canine leadership to make sure that they can be successfully managed at all times.

This dog will thrive on mental and physical stimulation so training routines, interactive games and any scent or obedience based trials will prove hugely beneficial for this dog. They will also gain stimulation from patrolling their territory in a secure, outside area. But ensure that fencing is secure as some, like the purebred Cane Corso, may also be expert escapologists able to either go over or through low or flimsy fencing.

Both the Cane Corso and the Rottweiler 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 parent breeds to occasionally be aggressive and domineering towards other dogs of the same gender.

But this having been said most well-socialized dogs will be playful and friendly with other dogs in the park.

This mixed breed dog can usually live with other dogs, although this may be easier if they are different genders. 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.

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

What does the Rottweiler Cane Corso Mix look like?

As can be imagined the Rottweiler Cane Corso Mix will have many physical features in keeping with its strong Mastiff heritage. But it is always important to remember that there is no exact science to predict how a specific mixed breed dog will favor one of the parent breeds in either physical appearance or temperament

This will include a large, broad head with a relatively short powerful muzzle. The head will be framed by medium-sized ears that are likely to be slightly pendant. The eyes will be almond-shaped and suggest an alert or inquisitive expression.

The powerfully muscled body will be characterized with a straight back leading to a thick tail carried no higher than slightly above horizontal to the body. The legs powerful with well-muscled hindquarters. The feet are likely to be rounded and cat-like.

The whole frame of this dog will give an impression of muscular sturdiness combined with agility and stamina.

What exercise is required for the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix?

The history of both parent breeds relates to driving cattle over many miles as well as hunting large quarry also over long distances.

These dogs should be kept lean and healthy and require a good level of physical and mental exercise. A Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix 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.

It would also include, ideally, obedience drills as this working dog will enjoy learning a range of commands.

At home this dog will be keen to engage in interactive play at every opportunity and mental stimulus may be provided by puzzle games and toys, as well as ‘treasure hunts’ and similar activities which involve challenge.

The Rottweiler is also an excellent tracking dog, and the Cane Corso also has inherent abilities in this respect. So this dog will also benefit from any trailing and tracking that may be offered. For extra stimulation at meal times the Rottweiler Cane Corso mix could be scatter-fed to encourage them to work for their food.

It is very important to be aware that the Cane Corso and the Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler Cane Corso Mix a good family dog?

A Rottweiler Cane Corso Mix will offer an excellent family dog who will absolutely dote on all members of the human family. This dog will be absolutely devoted to all members of the family and will offer a fun, energetic and playful canine addition to a household.

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.

This dog is likely to quite high-energy so will suit a family or owner with an active lifestyle.

This hybrid breed is also very likely to be the strong and silent type, only barking infrequently to raise an alarm when necessary. This means that this dog will not interfere too much with a nice, quiet ambience at home.

The Rottweiler Cane Corso Mix is also likely to have good house-manners and will generally be clean around the home. But be aware that a mixed breed favoring the Cane Corso may have a tendency to drool so may not suit the very house-proud.

Who is the ideal owner of a Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix?

The Cane Corso Rottweiler 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.

This dog will do better with an owner who is able to offer a secure outside area. This will provide the mental and physical stimulation for a dog whose parent breeds were designed to guard and protect.

Due to the protection and guarding role being ingrained heavily in the temperament of this dog, they will want to be very close to their humans as much as possible. This means the ideal owner will be able to provide human companionship most of the time. T

If it is essential to leave the Cane Corso Rottweiler 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 behaviors in the house which will be the reflection of the dog’s stress.

What are the grooming requirements of the Rottweiler Cane Corso Mix?

The Rottweiler Cane Corso Mix will have a lovely short, sleek coat that only requires very moderate grooming. A couple of brushings a week to remove dead and circulate natural oils around the skin will suffice.

Both parent breeds of this dog do not do well in the heat. So brushing should be undertaken 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 Rottweiler Mix?

The Rotticorso will certainly fall into the category of large in terms of physical size. This mixed breed will also be full of energy and will require large amounts of physical and mental stimulation.

This means a prospective home for the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix will need a large, secure outdoor area in which this dog can engage in interactive play as well as independently patrolling to gain further mental and physical stimulation.

Indoors this active dog will ideally have space in which to roam as well as a good area in which to stretch out and lay down.

This Rotticorso is not an ideal candidate for apartment living.

What is the lifespan of the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix?

The lifespan of the Cane Corso is generally between 10 to 12 years. The Rottweiler’s typical lifespan is between 8 and 11 years

This means that the probable lifespan for a Cane Corso Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler Mix include:

• Coronary Heart Disease and other related heart conditions
• Gastric Torsion (bloating)
• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia.
• Bone cancer
• Brain tumors
• Corneal erosion
• Entropion
• Ectropion

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

The Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix promises to be a quick learner in any training class and able to master a range of commands.

Neither of the parent breeds have the stubbornness that is often associated with Mastiff breeds but rather an intense desire to please their owners. Add this to the fact that the Rottweiler is a highly intelligent dog who does well in obedience and trials and any Schutzhund based trials. Indeed, the Cane Corso can also be trained to a very good standard.

A priority for this very powerful dog will be loose leash walking and heel work as this dog may have a tendency to pull on the leash. This should be prioritized along with establishing good safety behaviors such as ‘stay’ and ‘wait’ to ensure that this powerful dog is entirely biddable and manageable on a walk.

Ideally this dog will develop really good recall, as this high-energy dog will enjoy romping around off the leash.

If possible this dog will enjoy any being trained for tracking or trailing based activities as this will offer extra stimulation and exercise.

A conscientious owner will also ensure early socialization and training is consistent. This will ensure that this large, powerful dog is both confident and secure in a range of situations including interactions with unfamiliar dogs and people.

Training for separation anxiety should also be introduced at as early as stage as possible for the Cane Corso Rottweiler 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 example of the heights that a Rottweiler Cane Corso Mix can achieve in training please click here to see Max the Rotticorso in action.

How big will a Cane Corso Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler male stands generally between 24-28 inches (62-69cm). The female is slightly shorter characteristically between 23-26 inches (57-65 cm) tall

A Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix male is likely to reach the following sizes:

Male – 24-28 inches (61cm-71cm )
Female – 23-26 inches (58-66cm)

How much is a Cane Corso Rottweiler 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 robust Rottweiler is a heavy dog with the male between 87-135 lbs (39kg- 61kg) and the female weighing in at between 84-100 lbs (38-45 kgs).

This means that an adult Cane Corso English Rottweiler Mix is likely to weigh:

• Male: 85lb to 125lb (39-57 kg)
• Female: 80lb to 100lb (36-45kg)

Where should I get a Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix from?

If you are looking for a Cane Corso Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler Mix will tend to be slightly will be more calm and mature more quickly.

The male dog will tend to be a little more boisterous in play and can be aggressive towards other males. They are also likely to be a little more suspicious of strangers.

Both genders will make excellent family dogs as well as alert guardians.

What colors are common for a Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix?

• In general the Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix can be a variety of solid or partial colors if they favor the Cane Corso parent breed but the following will be common:
• black
• grey
• stag-red
• fawn
• apricot
• brindle
• grey

It is also possible that they will favor the Rottweiler and have the classic black and tan coloring of this parent breed.

Does a Cane Corso Rottweiler 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 in play when it reaches more gargantuan proportions.

Does a Cane Corso Rottweiler 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 softened by the the Rottweiler influence as this breed do not generally chase cats.

So 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 Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler Mix make a good guard dog for the home?

This Cane Corso Rottweiler Mix will prove to be an absolute natural as a canine guardian of the family and the home. This dog will combine alertness and protectiveness with an ability to be controlled and managed if there is a false alarm or welcome guests arrive.

They are also an agile and fast breed meaning they will provide a very imposing deterrent to any potential home invaders. This dog will also bark an alarm if they sense that something is awry.

Where can I found out more?

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

Links:

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

Cane Corso UK and Molosser Rescue (UK)

United States Rottweiler Club (USA)

Adoptarott (USA)
American Rottweiler Club (USA)

Rottweiler Welfare Association (UK)
Rottweilers in Need (UK)