Cane Corsos are a special breed, and it takes a particular type of family to meet their needs. Not only are they incredibly handsome, but they are also protective of their family. And Cane Corso owners also know how seriously sweet they are with their favorite humans behind closed doors. This big bundle of doggy goodness is becoming increasingly popular with dog lovers worldwide.
So, how long will Cane Corsos live? On average, they live between 9 to 12 years. This is a great age for a large breed compared to other doggy lifespans. Every dog is different, and some might live longer than this, whereas others might not. To keep your Cane Corso with you for as long as possible, you must ensure they live a healthy lifestyle. Want to find out how to do this? Let’s take a closer look.
Cane Corso Breed
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Cane Corsos date back as far as ancient Rome and is believed to descend from the Roman Atlassian, a Roman war dog. Their name comes from the Latin word “cohors,” which translates to guardian or protector. They are also referred to as the Italian Mastiff. They nearly became extinct in the mid-20th century. Thankfully, breed fanciers saved them. They first came to America in 1988 and are now one of the most popular large dog breeds.
Cane Corsos measure between 23.5 and 27.5 inches tall, from paw to shoulder. Their weight should be proportionate to their height and average between 90 and 110 pounds. Cane Corsos are highly protective of their family and property and need an experienced owner to train and keep them in check. This guard dog can make a fantastic family pet and adore their human pack in the right hands.
Average Cane Corso Lifespan
Larger dog breeds usually have a shorter lifespan than their smaller doggo friends, some of which have an expected lifespan of up to 18 years. Cane Corsos have an average lifespan of 9 to 12 years. This lifespan is lengthy compared to other large breeds, like the Rottie, which lives between 8 and 10 years. However, this is an estimate and never guaranteed, as every dog is different.
Health Factors That Impact Cane Corso Lifespan
All dog breeds are at risk of specific health concerns that run in their bloodline. It’s essential to explore the hereditary diseases and other predispositions the Cane Corso breed faces, as these can affect their lifespan.
Remember that all dogs are different. Some might not experience any of these, and some might experience different concerns. But these are the most common issues and a great place to start.
Cardiac Concerns
Cane Corsos are prone to several heart conditions. The most common is dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM.) This occurs when the heart muscle stretches and becomes thin, preventing the heart from pumping blood effectively. This puts strain on the cardiac system and other organs, which can shorten lifespan or cause sudden heart failure. Symptoms include rapid breathing during rest, restless sleeping, coughing, exercise intolerance, depression, and a decrease in appetite.
Gastric Dilation-Volvulus
Cane Corsos are susceptible to this disease, more commonly known as bloat. Although it doesn’t sound serious, it can become life-threatening very quickly. The sudden increase in stomach gas and twisting of the stomach releases deadly toxins. This condition can quickly lead to shock and death without immediate veterinary treatment. If you’re considering welcoming a Cane Corso into your family, research bloat and the symptoms to look out for.
Joint Dysplasia
Like many large dog breeds, the Cane Corso is predisposed to elbow and hip dysplasia. Joint dysplasia occurs when the joints form abnormally and fail to align correctly. The incorrect position causes the joint to wear down, causing mobility issues and pain. Symptoms of joint dysplasia include exercise intolerance and difficulty climbing or standing. These symptoms increase the risk of other health issues, such as cardiac problems and obesity, which can shorten a dog’s lifespan.
Other Factors That Impact Cane Corso Lifespan
The following factors are the main influences on a dog’s health and lifespan.
Lifestyle
Leading an active lifestyle is crucial to the health of the Cane Corso. This large canine has a curious nature and drive to protect, and they thrive with a job to do. Cane Corsos need a minimum of one hour of exercise daily, more if you can offer it. Not only does a lack of exercise result in destructive and problematic behavior, but it also leads to weight gain and secondary health concerns, which can further shorten their lifespan.
A massive part of Cane Corso’s happiness is the bond they have with their family. They like to be with their humans for most of the day. A lonely Corso is an unhappy one. And the same goes for Corsos without an experienced owner to lead and bring out the best in them. Stress leads to health problems, which can shorten their lifespan. So you need to be able to meet this dog’s needs to keep them happy, healthy, and with you for longer.
Genetics
Genetics is one of the most influential factors in any dog’s health and lifespan. It is imperative to work with a reputable breeder who screens their breeding dogs for health concerns. Some irresponsible breeders pump out Cane Corsos to meet their increasing demand. Often, they breed sick dogs, fail to take care of them, and sometimes mistreat them. It is important to research the breeder, meet them in person, and ask for health certificates. Responsible breeders have a much better chance of producing healthier puppies with longer lifespans.
Nutrition
Feeding your Cane Corso a high-quality diet that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards is essential. Large dog breeds have specific nutritional requirements, so it’s imperative to feed them a diet that meets the needs of large breeds. This is especially true during the development stage. So be sure to look for large-breed puppy food during their first year to help them develop healthily. A healthy, balanced diet allows dogs to thrive and hopefully live longer.
Medical Care
Our beloved pets rely on us to provide the best care for them. On top of exercise, love, and high-quality nutrition, they also need regular veterinary care. Keep up-to-date with regular health checks and vaccinations. This is the best way to protect them against infections and diseases and treat problems quickly. It’s also important to consider pet insurance for your pooch. It can relieve some of the financial burden associated with health care, leaving you to focus on your Cane Corso’s health and recovery.
Spay & Neuter
If you don’t intend to breed your Cane Corso, it’s important to consider spaying or neutering them. These procedures are more than population control and can keep your Cane Corso much healthier. The University of Georgia found that spaying and neutering can improve doggy life expectancy by 14% to 26%. They also found that not spaying or neutering your pup can shorten their lifespan by approximately two years and increase the chance of cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know our readers still have many questions about Cane Corsos and their lifespan. If you don’t see yours below, ask about it in the comments, and we’ll find the answer.
What Was The Lifespan Of The Longest Living Cane Corso?
There are no official records for the longest-living Cane Corso. There are claims online that the longest-living Cane Corso reached 15 years, but this is not officially recorded.
How Old Is A Senior Cane Corso?
There is no specific definition for a senior dog, as it differs for every dog. However, large breeds are often considered senior around the age of six, as this is when owners notice them slowing down and developing age-related problems.
Is There A Difference Between Male And Female Cane Corso Lifespan?
Research into the link between sex and longevity is inconclusive. Some studies suggest that females are healthier, but just as many studies show that males are healthier. The most influential factors on lifespan are likely genetics and lifestyle.
How Can I Help My Cane Corso Live A Long Life?
There are many ways to help your Cane Corso live a healthier and longer life. Provide them with an active lifestyle, lots of interaction and games, and a high-quality diet. Training your Cane Corso to be obedient is crucial and can also reduce stress. Invest in a high-quality, comfy bed for a rejuvenating sleep and to soothe joint pain. A happy Cane Corso is a healthy one.
Why Trust Love Your Dog?
Emma is a dog owner with over 20 years of experience. She has also worked as a professional dog walker and sitter for many years, caring for countless dog breeds with different needs. Emma dedicates countless hours researching the latest pet care, health, food, and training developments to keep her two best buddies and other doggy clients as happy and healthy as possible. She works with a professional and experienced team to bring our readers the best, most accurate, and up-to-date information.