What Characteristics Does A Cane Corso Have?
Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years
Adult weight: 85 – 100 lbs.
Adult height: 30 – 35 in.
Origin – Italy
The descendants of Roman war dogs, Cane Corsos, are a mastiff-type dog breed that originated in Italy. Developed initially to guard property and hunt big game, this large dog now plays the role of being an excellent family companion, perfectly. But be aware, that these muscular, robust, highly energetic dogs can easily become bored if they are not given a task to keep them busy. And bored dogs get into trouble. A bored Cane Corso may display behaviors like running around the house, barking at strangers, and chewing on furniture.
Cane Corsos are typically not among the most happy and bubbly pets. They are more severe and typically less interested in making friends outside their family. While these dogs can be trained, a firm hand would be needed to make any progress in training.
Cane Corsos are cousins of Neapolitan Mastiffs, an even larger and taller breed of mastiff. ‘Cane’ is Latin for dogs and ‘Corso’ comes from ‘Cohors’ or ‘Corsus,’ meaning bodyguard or sturdy and robust in Italian. While Cane Corsos are described as dogs with vigorous temperaments, they are reliably docile and affectionate towards their families. They are also highly intelligent but may have a bossy attitude.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, Cane Corsos are prone to eyelid problems like Cherry Eye, Entropion, and Ectropion. As a giant breed, with a deep chest, they can also be prone to gastric bloat. Potential buyers should check with breeders that neither of their puppy's parents has ever developed demodectic mange, a condition caused by a mite that lives on all dogs.
What Is The Price Of A Cane Corso?
The cost of bringing a Cane Corso home will include its purchase or adoption price, the initial cost of puppy supplies, and other expenses that may come up over the lifetime of this dog breed. We will break down the price by categorizing it by initial buying or adoption costs, vaccinations, diets, healthcare, grooming, and miscellaneous expenses. We hope you will find this breakdown helpful as you decide if a Cane Corso is the right pet for you. According to the OVMA and Rates, here are the average costs of puppy ownership in Canada.
Buying: $1000 – $2000
The cost of a Cane Corso with a healthy body and good pedigree could be about $900-$1500 if you choose to purchase your puppy from a breeder. Cane Corso puppy prices can be even higher, around $1500-$2000, depending on some factors like the pet’s age, coat color, and the location of the breeder. A Blue Cane Corso can be priced even higher still, at around $4,000. Similarly, a white Cane Corso that is very much in demand could cost you upwards of $3,500. Adult male dogs will be comparatively cheaper than female puppies in this case. Gray Cane Corso’s can be priced the highest at around $6,000 in comparison to a dog with a chestnut coat, which could cost around $1500.
If you are looking for Cane Corso puppies for under $500, adoption could be a great option for you. You can find several reputable and accredited organizations that can help you find a Cane Corso puppy to adopt. For example, Adopt a pet or Cane Corso Rescue Inc., are just two of a variety of organizations where you can apply for adoption. Generally, this could cost around $300, a fee that generally covers the expenses incurred by the shelter to care for the dog before its adoption.
What Are The Monthly Costs of Owning A Cane Corso?
Diets: $20-$100
These are heavy dogs, with both males and females potentially weighing over 100 pounds as adults. To keep these dogs at a healthy weight, they will need about 5 cups of high-quality, vet-recommended kibble per day which could cost around $20-$100 depending on the type of dog food you choose for your pet. Some pet parents also choose to add supplements to their pet's diet along with fruits and vegetables. Just a note here, these additions can be very nutritious but also increase the cost of feeding your pet and are not necessities.
Grooming: $40-$50
Corso dogs have a double-layered coat that sheds throughout the year. Regular brushing can help keep the house clean and hair-free. If you choose to groom your dog at home, the cost of a hairbrush can be around $20. Also, once-a-month bathing, twice-a-month nail trimming, and ear and teeth cleanings are highly recommended. Additional supplies to groom your dog can include nail trimmers and a dental cleaning kit. Overall, these items could cost around $20-$30.
Medical Costs: $500-$700
During the first year, it is recommended your Cane Corso see their vet 3-4 times. Vet fees can range from $100 to $300 and often include services like annual wellness exams and blood tests, among other recommended preventive care treatments. Other examinations and tests could cost an additional $300-$400.
Entertainment costs: $10-$20
To help curb your furbaby's boredom, try to make sure they have a variety of toys to play with. It is also possible that a toy you got just yesterday is now altogether a different shape because your Cane Corso put it to good use. With a Cane Corso in your life, you may find yourself regularly refilling the toy and chewies basket! This cost could range from $10-$20 per month.
What Are The One-Time Costs of Owning A Cane Corso?
Initial Costs: $500-$550
Your Corso pup will need an ID tag, crate, carrier, food, and water bowls, a leash or two, collars, and a big bed that they can grow into. Purchasing these initial items could cost about $400.
Vaccinations: $250-$300
There are certain core vaccinations that a Cane Corso would need. These include distemper, parvovirus, Adenovirus, type 1, Adenovirus, type 2, and rabies. All of these could cost you around $150-$200.
There are also vaccinations that are not core vaccinations but are recommended by most vets for a Cane Corso. These include parainfluenza, Lyme disease, and leptospirosis. The cost of these vaccines can be around $130-$150.
Microchipping: $60-$80
The average cost of microchipping a dog is around $60 but can vary from state to state. If you also purchase a dog license, add an additional $10-$20 to your estimated cost. Spot Pet Insurance highly recommends that each and every pet parent make sure their pet is microchipped, as microchipping can help increase the chances of a lost pet being reunited with their family.
What Are The Lifetime Cane Corso Expenses?
With an initial purchase price of $2500, the cost of essential supplies, and other one-time and recurring costs, you could expect to spend around $20,000 on your Cane Corso throughout their lifetime. Adoption can help you save some money on the initial cost.
Should I Get Pet Insurance for my Cane Corso?
Investing in pet insurance for your Cane Corso puppy is a wise decision to protect your dog and pocket. These large, powerful dogs are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, which can lead to costly veterinary bills. With pet insurance, you can ensure your furry friend receives the necessary care without worrying about financial constraints. By protecting your Cane Corso with insurance, you're giving them the best possible chance at a healthy and happy life
“Annual Cost of Owning a Puppy,” OVMA, https://www.ovma.org/assets/1/6/CostOfCare%20PuppyDog%202022.pdf, n.d.
“The Cost of Owning a Pet in Canada,” Rates, https://rates.ca/resources/the-cost-of-owning-a-pet-in-canada, n.d.
