The Majestic Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix: A Comprehensive Guide
If you‘re looking for a large, loyal and protective companion, the cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix may be your ideal match. This striking hybrid combines two ancient mastiff-type breeds – the cane corso from Italy and the dogue de bordeaux from France. The result is a majestic and muscular dog with a dignified presence.
As a prospective owner, you likely have many questions about this uncommon mixed breed. What will they look like? What kind of temperament can you expect? Are they difficult to train? Do they have any special care requirements? In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about the cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix.
Parent Breeds at a Glance
To understand the cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix, it helps to first explore the two parent breeds that create it. Both the cane corso and dogue de bordeaux have long histories as guardian and working dogs.
The Cane Corso
The cane corso is an Italian breed dating back to ancient Roman times. Their name roughly translates from Latin as "bodyguard dog." Standing 23.5 to 27.5 inches tall and weighing 88 to 120 pounds, the corso has a large, athletic build well-suited for defense and hunting work.
Corsos have short, stiff coats that are usually black but can also be gray, fawn or red, sometimes with brindle patterns and a black or gray mask. They have broad, heavy heads with hanging ears and a powerful jaw.
The corso‘s temperament is confident, intelligent and intensely loyal. They bond closely with their owners and are instinctively protective. While not overtly aggressive, they are aloof with strangers and have strong guarding instincts that require early training and socialization.
The Dogue de Bordeaux
The dogue de bordeaux, also known as the French mastiff or Bordeaux mastiff, was developed in France as early as the 1300s. Originally used for guarding and blood sports, they transitioned to estate guardians and companions. Males stand 23 to 27 inches and weigh at least 110 pounds, while females are slightly smaller.
The dogue de bordeaux has a massive, powerful frame with a broad, heavy head. Their short coat is fawn-colored, ranging from light to dark red, sometimes with a red or black mask. The breed standard specifies a minimum amount of white on the chest and toes.
Temperamentally, the dogue de bordeaux is calm, patient and courageous. They are affectionate and devoted to their families, including children, but can be territorial and suspicious of strangers. Training and socialization from an early age are a must. The breed also has a stubborn streak that requires a firm, consistent approach.
The Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix
Crossing a cane corso with a dogue de bordeaux produces a large, muscular and imposing dog with traits from both parent breeds. However, the exact appearance and temperament can vary from one individual to the next.
Physical Characteristics
The cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix typically stands 23 to 27 inches tall and weighs between 110 to 150 pounds, with males larger than females. They have a solid, powerful build with a deep chest and strong, straight legs.
The head is large and heavy with a wide, short muzzle, pronounced stop and hanging ears. Jaws are strong with a scissor or level bite. Eyes are oval-shaped and usually brown, although lighter eye colors are possible.
The short, dense coat is easy to care for and comes in colors including fawn, red, apricot and brindle. Many have a black or red mask and minimal white markings. Expect some drooling and shedding, especially seasonally.
Temperament and Personality
A well-bred and properly trained cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix is even-tempered, confident and discriminating. They should be openly affectionate and loyal to their family while maintaining an aloof dignity with strangers.
As with both parent breeds, early and ongoing socialization is essential to prevent over-guarding and reactivity, especially in such a large, powerful dog. Positive reinforcement training brings out their eagerness to please and quick learning ability. Patience and consistency are key, as they can have a stubborn streak.
The cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix is happiest when given a job to do, whether that‘s alerting to noises, accompanying you on hikes, or participating in training activities. They thrive on human companionship and will follow you from room to room. Leaving them alone for long periods may lead to boredom, destructive chewing and excessive barking.
While generally good with children in the family, a cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix may play too roughly for little ones. Always supervise interactions and teach both the dog and children how to interact safely. They may or may not get along with other dogs and pets, depending on early socialization. A properly introduced cat or opposite-sex dog is usually fine, but same-sex dogs may clash.
Exercise and Activity Level
As a large working breed mix, the cane corso dogue de bordeaux needs ample daily exercise to stay physically and mentally satisfied. Expect to provide a minimum of 60 to 90 minutes per day, split between long walks, hikes, backyard play sessions, swimming and training activities.
Avoid repetitive, high-impact exercise like jogging or jumping until growth plates have closed, usually around 18 to 24 months. Stick to long walks and swimming during puppyhood. Even in adulthood, this heavy breed may tire more easily than lighter hunting and herding dogs. Adjust intensity and duration to your individual dog, especially in hot weather.
Training and Socialization
The cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix is intelligent and trainable but requires an experienced, confident owner who can provide clear, consistent leadership. Begin training and socialization as early as possible to mold their protective instincts and strong will into desirable behaviors.
Use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, petting, play and high-value treats to motivate them. Keep training sessions short and fun to hold their interest. Firmly correct any signs of aggression or overexcitement. Punishment-based methods are counterproductive with such a sensitive breed.
In addition to basic obedience, dedicate plenty of time to socialization. Introduce your puppy to a variety of people, animals, places and situations to build confidence and social skills. This is essential for any guarding breed but especially important for this large, imposing mix.
Health and Care
The cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix is generally a sturdy, healthy breed with a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. However, their large size predisposes them to certain health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat), eye problems, heart disease and certain cancers. Choose a reputable breeder who health tests breeding stock to minimize risks.
Grooming is relatively simple with a short, dense coat. Brush weekly with a rubber curry or bristle brush to remove loose fur and stimulate skin circulation. Increase brushing frequency during heavy shedding periods in spring and fall.
Check ears weekly for signs of infection and clean as needed. Trim nails every few weeks if they don‘t wear down naturally. Brush teeth at least a few times per week to prevent dental disease. Your vet can advise you on an appropriate dental care routine.
Ideal Home and Owner
Given their size, strength and guarding tendencies, the cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix is not the right choice for novice owners or those looking for a laid-back family pet. They are best suited for knowledgeable, active owners willing to put in the work required to train and socialize a large guarding breed.
A fenced yard is ideal for this athletic breed, although they are adaptable to apartment living as long as they receive enough daily exercise and mental stimulation. They thrive in homes with older children who know how to interact safely and are too large for most toddlers and preschoolers. Other dogs and pets are fine with early socialization and proper introductions.
The cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix is devoted to family and wants to be with their people as much as possible. Leaving them alone for long periods regularly can lead to boredom, anxiety and destructive behaviors. If you work long hours away from home or travel frequently, this breed is probably not the right fit for your lifestyle.
Finding a Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Mix
Because both parent breeds are relatively rare and it‘s an uncommon mix, finding a cane corso dogue de bordeaux puppy may take some research. Look for reputable breeders who health test breeding stock and follow responsible breeding practices. Expect to pay upwards of $1500 for a well-bred puppy.
You may also get lucky finding an adult cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix through breed-specific rescues or animal shelters. Adopting an adult dog lets you avoid the intensive puppy stage but you‘ll need to be prepared to work through any behavioral or training issues stemming from their background.
Whether getting a puppy or adult, budget for initial expenses such as a crate, bed, toys, food and water bowls, leash, collar and veterinary care. Ongoing costs for high-quality food, regular vet care, boarding or pet sitting, and training can add up quickly for a large breed dog.
Final Thoughts
The cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix is a majestic, loyal and protective companion for experienced owners willing to devote time and energy to training and socialization. With their imposing size, strength and guarding instincts, they are not the right choice for novice owners or those looking for a laid-back family pet.
If you have the knowledge, confidence and commitment to provide consistent training, plenty of exercise and companionship, and a safe, structured environment, the cane corso dogue de bordeaux mix will reward you with unwavering devotion and steadfast courage. When raised in a loving, responsible home, this awe-inspiring mix can be a wonderful addition to the right family.
