Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix: Info, Pictures, Traits & Facts
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If you’re one for keeping up with the happenings in the dog world, you’ve most likely heard of the Cane Corso and the Dogo Argentino. Unfortunately, not everything you’ve heard has been good. Yes, both of these dogs have a reputation for being overly protective of their owners and slightly aggressive when it comes to people or animals they don’t know. However, there is more to these breeds than meets the eye, especially when you mix these two breeds to create the designer dog known as the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix, or the Corso Dogo as many call them.
| Height: | 24–27 inches |
| Weight: | 80–100 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Colors: | Usually black and white but gray and fawn are possible |
| Suitable for: | Experienced dog owners who are active and dedicated to training |
| Temperament: | Protective, intelligent, loyal, and weary of strangers |
It’s difficult to determine when this mix first happened. Most believe they were bred together in the United States during the 1980s when new dog mixes were on the rise. Considering the parent breeds have such different histories, the Corso being an ancient Greek war dog and the Dogo being bred to hunt in Argentina in the later part of the 1920s, this is understandable. What we do know about this dog mix is that they are protective, intelligent, and fearless. Does this mean they deserve the same reputation as their parent breeds? Yes, to an extent. But like with the Cane Corso and the Dogo Argentino, the mix of the two can be great family dogs when they are trained, socialized, and raised in loving homes. Let’s learn more about the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix so you can determine whether this designer dog is the one for you and your family.
Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix Puppies
Before bringing a Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix puppy home, there are a few things you should know. These dogs need a lot of exercise as they have plenty of energy. They are highly intelligent and learn easily but training should start young and be prepared, it will last your new dog’s lifetime. It’s also extremely important that you start socializing your Cane Corso Dogo Argentino at a young age. Both parent breeds are guard dogs that are protective and weary of strangers, other animals, and situations.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix
The temperament of a Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is largely determined by you, the owner. These dogs are powerful and have a hunting background. They are also guard dogs that will put themselves in danger to protect their owners. Considering their background, it isn’t surprising that this mix will not be open to strangers and, without the proper socialization and training, could show aggression. When it comes to their families, however, they can be very gentle, loving dogs.
The intelligence of the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is undeniable. This doesn’t mean life will be easy with this breed. They can be stubborn and love being in charge. This is why seasoned dog owners are better suited to owning this mixed breed than someone new to dogs and training.
Unfortunately, these dogs can be aggressive. This is especially true for Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mixes that are left alone, aren’t worked with, and don’t receive proper socialization when they are young. Normally, this aggression doesn’t show to their families, but this breed prefers to be the dominant part of the relationship. To avoid any issues, make sure you establish your role as alpha early on so your dog respects you and the love will grow.
Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪
Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mixes can do well with families, but they are strong dogs that are fiercely protective. For these reasons, it would be best for this mix breed to be in homes with experienced dog owners. Small children could easily get hurt by a Cane Corso Dogo Argentino that hasn’t been properly trained. Their high energy and size mean bumping and knocking little ones down is a possibility. Older kids may do better as they can understand this breed’s need to work off their energy. These dogs aren’t the greatest choice for families with small children.
Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?
The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix isn’t going to make friends with the family cat or the dog next door without a lot of training and socializing early on. They have a high prey drive, which can make them dangerous for small animals. If you plan on having other pets in the home, proper introductions are necessary. You should also start socializing your Cane Corso Dogo Argentino as a puppy. Taking them on walks in the neighborhood and allowing them to meet other animals will help them understand that not everything they encounter is a threat.
Things to Know When Owning a Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix:
Food & Diet Requirements 🦴
The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino is a large dog breed. Yes, they need high-quality dog food to keep them healthy but keep in mind that becoming overweight could be an issue. Make sure any food you give this breed is of the best quality possible with animal protein being the main ingredient. For this breed’s size, most suggest 4 to 4 ½ cups of high-quality high-protein kibble per day. This amount can be divided into two feedings or three if you prefer to space things out more.
Exercise 🐕
A Corso Dogo mix is going to require a lot of exercise. Both parent breeds are extremely hyper, potentially hyperactive, so it only makes sense that the combination would bring those characteristics along for the ride. If you’re looking at things in terms of minutes, you’ll need at least 90 minutes per day to dedicate to strenuous play and exercise. Activities such as hiking, jogging, tossing the frisbee, fetch, tug-of-war, and even cart pulling can help keep your Corso Dogo mix in great shape. That doesn’t mean, however, that your dog will be tuckered out after those 90 minutes. You’ll need to provide mental stimulation in the form of games or even interactive toys beyond this requirement. Adding in long walks will also help ensure that your Corso Dogo doesn’t get bored, which can lead to them getting into a bit of mischief.
Training 🎾
Training is where most of your time will be spent when it comes to the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix. Training is a lifetime commitment with this breed as they constantly need to stay in check and work on socialization. This mixed breed, thanks to its parents, is very trainable. They are highly intelligent dogs that can learn commands easily. The only issue is, they can also be stubborn and want to be the dominant one in the relationship. This is why this breed isn’t recommended for first-time dog owners. They need someone familiar with training that can be firm and also gives clear commands and expectations. When training this breed, boundaries must be established. You’ll need to show your Corso Dogo mix that you are the alpha. Only by doing this will you earn your dog’s respect and have successful training sessions.
Training and socialization sessions should start early in your dog’s life. Yes, this breed has a short attention span, so sessions may only last 10 to 15 minutes, but you can do several throughout the day. The earlier you start, and the more consistent you are, the better you’ll manage this breed. Like any dog, they respond best to positive reinforcement. Make sure you praise your dog when they do something right. Yes, treats can be used here and there but try not to rely on them as training is a lifetime commitment with this breed. Too many treats could lead to obesity and that is the last thing you want with this large dog breed.
Grooming ✂️
The grooming needs of this mixed breed are fairly minimal. Like most dogs, they shed, but not a lot. You’ll have two main shedding times throughout the year, spring and fall. These dogs do have short coats but they’ll still require brushings several times a week to remove any loose hair and debris from time outside playing.
Bathing your Corso Dogo mix should only happen when the dog needs it or once a month. If you bathe them too much, you’ll wash away the natural oils their fur and skin need to stay healthy. We aren’t saying allow your dog to get stinky, but don’t overdo it.
If you feel comfortable with trimming your dog’s nails, this should be done every few weeks or when you notice they are getting too long. If this task makes you nervous, veterinarians and groomers will gladly step in to help. You should also ensure your Corso Dogo’s ears stay clean to avoid infections and that their teeth are brushed several times a week with dog-friendly toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- See Also: 11 Best Dry Dog Shampoos
Health and Conditions 🏥
While both the Cane Corso and the Dogo Argentino are relatively healthy dog breeds with long lifespans, there are a few hereditary conditions they are prone to. This is the case for most large-breed dogs. Some conditions can be avoided by choosing reputable breeders who put the health of their dogs first and sticking to a routine veterinarian schedule to ensure your dog is in the best health possible.
- Eye issues
- Ear infections
- Mange
- Gastric torsion (Bloat)
- Joint dysplasia
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
Male vs Female
When it comes to the battle of the sexes, it looks like the ladies have this one. Female Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mixes are a bit more docile than their male counterparts. This makes them a bit easier to train and socialize. They are also smaller by a couple of inches and a few pounds. The size difference can make them easier to handle for certain people. You can expect the males to have a bit of a stubborn streak and try to establish dominance more. If you’re not confident with your training skills, females may be the better choice.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Cane Corso Dogo Argentino Mix
1. The Cane Corso is considered an ancient dog breed.
The history of the Cane Corso, one of the Corso Dogo’s parent breeds, is a bit legendary. These dogs date back to ancient Greece and were used as war dogs. They fought alongside Greek soldiers when the Romans attacked. When the war ended, they made their way to Italy where they began their lives as guard dogs and the protectors of the farm.
2. The Dogo Argentino was bred for hunting large prey.
It isn’t surprising that the Dogo Argentino, the other parent breed of the Corso Dogo, was bred to hunt. What is surprising is the prey they were after. These dogs didn’t go after foxes or small animals. No, they were bred to hunt in packs and take down large prey like mountain lions and boars.
3. The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is loving…to their families.
When it comes to a Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix don’t expect your dog to be showering everyone who visits your home with kisses and snuggles. We’ve already mentioned that these dogs aren’t normally fans of strangers. While this can be kept at bay with proper socialization, they are still the kind of breed that only gives their love to the family.
Final Thoughts
The Cane Corso Dogo Argentino mix is a beautiful, powerful dog. Their formidable appearance and striking features make them appealing to many people. Unfortunately, this breed isn’t for everyone. These dogs need a strong owner with experience to keep them in check. When proper training and socialization are in play, these dogs can be loving members of the family who will be by your side no matter what happens.
Featured Image Credit: Left – Eudyptula, Shutterstock | Right – Miguel Santiago, Pixabay
