The Shar Pei and Cane Corso are very different dogs, so you may be surprised to learn that they can create an awesome mixed breed, or designer dog.
The Shar Pei Cane Corso is a large but lovable pooch that makes a great companion.
History and Where the Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix comes from
The Shar Pei Cane Corso is a new breed, known as a designer dog. Like most designer dogs, the history of the mix is unknown. We don’t know where or when they first appeared. However, the parent breeds do have a detailed history.
Designer Dog Breed History
When a breeder intentionally breeds two purebred dogs of different breeds, the result is known as a designer breed.
Designer breeds are new. In fact, the term is only 20 years old. However, the practice goes back as far as domestic dogs. Many of today’s popular breeds are actually the result of combining different dog breeds to get desired traits.
Shar Pei History
The Shar Pei originated in China, in 200 B.C., making them one of the oldest breeds alive today. They are a descendant of Han Dog, which also spawned the Chow.
It’s thought they were originally bred as guard dogs and helpers for farmers. However, their wrinkly skin and bristly fur made them excellent fighting dogs.
They eventually fell out of favor as larger dogs were brought to China for fighting purposes. However, they were still popular with peasants.
In 1949, the Chinese Communist Party took over power in China. The party outlawed dog fighting. However, they also sought to destroy several breeds, including the Shar Pei.
They were named the rarest dog in the world in the 1970s. However, dedicated breeders have brought the breed back from the brink of extinction.
Cane Corso History
Cane Corsos are also an ancient breed. They are descendants of the Greek Mollosser. The Mollosser also spawned several other breeds, including Bulldogs and Rottweilers.
The Cane Corso fought alongside Roman soldiers. After the war was over, they became guard dogs and farm hands.
The name Cane Corso means “bodyguard dog” in Italian.
They fell out of fashion, and almost became extinct. A chance encounter in the 1970s revealed that they were not extinct. Breeders began reviving the breed.
The Cane Corso was brought to America in the 1980s. They quickly became popular in the U.S.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Facts
Both Shar Peis and Cane Corsos make excellent guard dogs. They are also great companions.
It’s important to know that Shar Pei Cane Corso mixes can’t be registered. They are considered a mixed breed. They can participate in some competitions, like agility, but they can’t compete in confirmation shows.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Appearance
The Shar Pei Cane Corso can take after either of its parents. They will typically inherit some traits from both parents, but they will resemble one more than the other.
This means their appearance can vary greatly, even among puppies within the same litter. To better understand the appearance of this designer pooch, let’s take a closer look at their parent breeds.
Shar Pei Appearance
Shar Peis have a unique and easily recognizable appearance. They have a square shaped body. Their head is wide, and their bodies are stocky. They are often called hippo dogs, thanks to their wide hippo like muzzle.
They have a wrinkly head and body. These wrinkles help protect them when fighting. Their loose skin allows them to spin around even when an animal bites them, and prevents animals from reaching their meat and bones.
They have bristle like coarse hair, which is short. They have a blue tongue. They share this trait with only one other breed, the Chow. They have small erect ears.
Cane Corso Appearance
The Cane Corso is stocky yet regal. They have a strong, well muscled body, and large bones. They have a short haired double coat, which contributes to their sleek appearance. Their head is rounded. They have large, floppy ears, and a long powerful tail.
Many owners choose to clip their ears and tail, to make them appear more aggressive.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Appearance
The Shar Pei Cane Corso is sure to be a medium to large breed with a stocky, well muscled body.
They will have a short coat, which can be smooth or bristled, depending on which parent’s coat they inherit.
Their head may be rounded or square. They may inherit the blue tongue of the Shar Pei, or the standard pink tongue of the Corso.
Coat Colors
The Shar Pei can be an impressive range of colors. These include black, blue, brown, fawn, tan, red, white, and sable. Lilac, chocolate, apricot, Isabella, and cream dilute colors are also acceptable.
Patterns can include brindle, white, mask, and pointed.
Cane Corsos are typically solid colored. They can be black, brown, red, fawn, gray, and brindle. They can also inherit a mask pattern.
It’s difficult to predict the colors of the Shar Pei Cane Corso. Chestnut and dark brown are the most common colors, but any color of the parents is possible. They may also have white patches or patterns.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Price and Expenses
Shar Pei Cane Corso mixes aren’t easy to find. However, they are typically less expensive than their purebred parents.
Registered Cane Corsos cost $1,000 to $2,500. Shar Peis cost $1,000 to $1,200.
Shar Pei Cane Corsos typically cost $500 to $1,000. However, since they are not common, the price can vary.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Rarity
Shar Pei Cane Corsos are rare for a few reasons. They are a new breed, which means there are few breeders currently breeding them.
The other reason for their rarity is the rarity of the parent breeds. Shar Peis and Cane Corsos are not rare, but they are far from the most common pooches.
Shar Peis rank 64 in terms of popularity in the U.S. The Cane Corso is more common. It’s the 17th most common pooch in America.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Life Expectancy
Cane Corsos typically live for 10-12 years. Shar Peis have a life expectancy of 9-11 years. Your Shar Pei Cane Corso will live for 9-12 years.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Size and weight
Shar Pei Cane Corsos are medium to large sized dogs. Their size and weight can vary significantly, based on which parent they resemble.
Shar Peis are medium sized dogs. They reach 18-22 inches tall, and weigh 45 to 55 pounds.
Cane Corsos are larger. They are 23 to 28 inches, and they can weigh 85 to 120 pounds.
The Shar Pei Corso can fall anywhere in this range. However, most will be 20-24 inches tall, and weigh 60 to 100 pounds. Like their parent breeds, you can expect females to be smaller than males.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Health
Shar Pei Cane Corso mixes are generally healthy dogs. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to some health conditions.
Mixed breed dogs have hybrid vigor, which makes them less susceptible to some diseases. However, they can inherit some conditions from either parent, so they can develop health issues.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia is common in medium and large breeds. It occurs when the hip or elbow joint doesn’t form correctly. The condition is inherited, but lifestyle factors also play a role.
Dysplasia causes pain, particularly with movement. Severe hip dysplasia can make movement difficult. Your pooch may cry when moving, or avoid moving when possible. You may also notice stiffness.
You can reduce the risk of dysplasia by providing your pooch with a healthy diet and appropriate exercise.
Bloat
Bloat can occur in any dog. However, it’s more common in larger or barrel chested breeds. Bloat occurs when the gas that forms in the stomach during digestion can’t be released.
This causes pressure to increase, If not treated, this can cause the stomach to twist. Stomach twisting, or gastric torsion, is fatal in 80% of cases.
If the dog gets treatment early, they have a 50% survival rate. Bloat can be fatal within hours of symptoms appearing.
Symptoms of bloat include stomach pain and bloating, retching or gagging without productive vomiting, and inability to pee, poop, or pass gas.
You can reduce the risk of bloat by feeding your pooch twice a day. If they eat very quickly, a slow feeder bowl can be helpful.
Obesity
56% of the dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. Like obesity in humans, those extra pounds puts a pooch at an increased risk of health conditions. These include diabetes, heart problems, and joint issues.
Eye Disorders
Eye disorders are common in both parent breeds, which means a Shar Pei Corso can also inherit these problems.
These include entropin and cherry eye, which are conditions that affect the eyelid. Shar Peis are also prone to glaucoma. Glaucoma causes increased pressure in the eye. This can cause pain, and eventually lead to blindness.
Mange
The Shar Pei, and the Shar Pei Corso, are at a higher risk of developing mange. The condition is caused by parasitic mites that feed on the skin. It causes severe itching, patches of hair loss, and thickening of the skin. It can also cause sores or lesions, which lead to skin infections.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism can affect both parent breeds, which puts the Shar Pei Corso at a high risk of developing it as well.
It occurs when the thyroid is underactive. The thyroid is responsible for metabolism. Hypothyroidism causes unexplained weight gain, lethargy, loss fo appetite, and slower thinking.
It also affects the coat and skin. The coat can become dull, and hair loss can occur. The skin can develop dark patches as well.
Arthritis
Arthritis is common in both parent breeds, so the Shar Pei Cane Corso is susceptible to it as well. Osteoarthritis is the most common. This type occurs over time, as the joints get natural wear and tear.
It causes pain and inflammation. You may notice your pooch seems to have pain. They may have difficulty moving, particularly in the mornings.
Arthritis can be treated with medication and a gentle exercise plan. This can help relieve the pain and slow the progression of the disease.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Behavior/Characteristics/Temperament
Shar Pei Cane Corsos can vary in temperament, based on which parent they resemble more. Shar Peis are independent, and don’t mind spending time alone. Cane Corsos need lots of attention, and don’t do well when left alone.
Both parent breeds are loyal and affectionate. Corsos are more energetic, but are relatively calm, and a bit reserved. Shar Peis are laid back and low energy.
Your Shar Pei Cane Corso will likely be calm, but enjoy play sessions as well.
Cane Corsos require lots of mental exercise, as well as physical activity. Your pooch may inherit this trait, and need plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
You can provide this by teaching them new tricks or commands, providing them with puzzle toys, and playing games like fetch.
Both parent breeds are very protective. You can expect your Shar Pei Cane Corso mix to be highly protective, and wary of strangers as well.
How to care for a Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix
Shar Pei Cane Corsos are relatively easy to care for. However, they do have some needs you should be aware of before deciding to get one.
How much exercise do Shar Pei Cane Corso Mixes need?
Shar Peis are calm and not particularly energetic. They do enjoy activity and they like to play, however. It’s important for them to get 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise each day.
Cane Corsos are more active. They require at least 1 hour of exercise each day. Many Cane Corsos prefer to exercise for 2 hours daily.
You can expect your Shar Pei Cane Corso to need at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Most do well with 1 hour of physical activity. Energetic pooches may need 1 1/2 hours of exercise each day.
Do Shar Pei Cane Corso Mixes shed a lot?
Shar Peis and Cane Corsos both have short coats. This means that they will not shed a lot. You can expect your Shar Pei Cane Corso to shed minimally in the Spring and Fall.
Regular brushing will help prevent hair from getting on your furniture, and speed the shedding process.
Do you need to groom Shar Pei Cane Corso mixes often?
Shar Pei Cane Corsos don’t need a lot of grooming. They do need to be brushed at least once a week, preferably twice a week.
They don’t require frequent bathing. Most do well with a bath every 4 to 6 weeks. They are naturally clean, and their coat doesn’t hold a lot of dirt.
If your pooch spends a lot of time outside, you may need to bathe them more often. They shouldn’t be bathed more often than once a week.
Do you need to train Shar Pei Cane Corso Mixes a lot?
The Shar Pei Cane Corso mix can be challenging to train. They have a strong desire to please their owner, which typically makes trianing htem easier.
However, they need a strong owner who will show them their place. You should be calm and confident when interacting with them, particularly when training.
If allowed to take the reins, the pooch will run the household, and be impossible to train.
Their large size and power makes training them properly very important. If you are inexperienced with strong willed breeds, an obedience course is a great idea.
In addition to training, they need plenty of socialization. Both parent breeds are wary of strangers. They will need to be introduced to other people, and other animals, early on.
If they are socialized, they will get along well with strangers and other pets. If they aren’t, they can be aggressive.
Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix Diet
Shar Pei Cane Corsos require a high quality diet. Shar Peis have special dietary considerations, and these also apply to the Shar Pei Corso.
Shar Peis have the highest incidence of food allergies, with beef being the most common allergen. A hypoallergenic diet may be needed if they have food allergies.
Shar Peis are particularly at risk of being overweight. They require a lower protein diet than other breeds. Cane Corsos, on the other hand, need a high protein diet to support their muscle mass and energy.
These differences can make it difficult to determine the best diet for your Shar Pei Corso mix.
Generally, you should avoid the cheapest foods. Choose a food that has protein as the first few ingredients, and avoid foods with bone or fish meal in the first three ingredients.
It’s best to speak to your vet about the best diet for your Shar Pei Cane Corso, because of their unique needs.
Puppies should be fed a puppy formula 3 to 4 times a day. Once they reach 6 months old, they can be fed 3 times a day. Once they reach 12 months old, you can feed them an adult food 2 times a day.
Temperature and Living Conditions
Shar Pei Corso mixes require moderate temperatures.
Shar Peis are also susceptible to heat. They have a short nose, which prevents them from cooling down as well as other breeds. If they are panting a lot, they need to cool down.
Shar Peis can’t tolerate cold temperatures.
If the temperature is 40 degrees or below, they may need to come inside. Shar Pei Corsos can also inherit this trait. If you notice them shivering, whining, or being lethargic, they need to come in.
A Shar Pei Cane Corso should spend most of their time indoors. They do well in small spaces, like apartments, as well as more spacious homes.
Are Shar Pei Cane Corso Mixes good family pets?
Shar Pei Cane Corsos are a great pet for a family. They are affectionate and fiercely loyal. They are very gentle with children, and have patience with them.
However, their size can cause some issues. They may be clumsy, or not realize how heavy they are. This can lead to accidents, particularly with small children.
They may accidentally knock a small child down, for example. When they are interacting with young ones, it’s best to supervise them.
They are highly protective, which also makes them great for families. They will keep a watchful eye on their family members, particularly children.
When properly socialized, they will tolerate strangers. However, don’t expect them to warm up to new people easily.
If someone is attempting to harm their family, expect them to protect them with their lives if necessary.
How do you buy a Shar Pei Cane Corso Mix?
Shar Pei Cane Corsos are rare, which makes them hard to find. In addition to locating a pooch, you should take the time to be sure the breeder is ethical.
Finding a Shar Pei Cane Corso
The best way to find a Shar Pei Cane Corso is with an internet search. In addition to searching for breeders, you can check out organizations for the parent breeds.
These include the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America, Inc., and the Cane Corso Association of America.
Determining if a Breeder is Reputable
When purchasing a Shar Pei Cane Corso, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder. One way to determine if a breeder is ethical is asking questions.
You should ask them how they determine breeding pairs, and how they ensure the health of their dogs and puppies. Genetic testing before breeding is a good indication that a breeder is reputable.
It’s also a great idea to meet the breeder and the parent dogs. This will allow you to see the dogs and puppies, to get a better idea of their personalities. You’ll also see the conditions the dogs have.
If it’s not possible to meet the owner in person because they are far away, request a video chat.