The cane corso husky mix is an increasingly popular crossbreed that combines the intelligence and trainability of the Siberian Husky with the power and protective instincts of the Cane Corso.
This unique mix brings together two very different breeds and results in puppies with their own distinct look and personality.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the cane corso husky mix.
Origin and History
As a relatively new crossbreed, the origin of the cane corso husky mix is quite recent and not well documented.
Most designers likely started crossing cane corsos and Siberian huskies within the last 10-20 years in North America.
The Cane Corso itself originates from Italy, used as a guard dog and to hunt big game. The Siberian Husky hails from Siberia where it was bred by the Chukchi people as an endurance sled dog.
While their histories are vastly different, both parent breeds are working dogs with strong athletic abilities and intelligence.
Appearance
The cane corso husky mix brings together two physically distinct breeds. As a cross between the regal Cane Corso and lithe Siberian Husky, these designer hybrids can vary quite a bit in builds and coat types.
Coat and Colors
As in most mixes, cane corso husky mix puppies can inherit a range of physical traits from both parental breeds.
Their coats tend to be medium to long in length and dense. It’s also common for them to have the Siberian Husky’s signature thick and wooly undercoat which sheds heavily during seasonal blowouts.
Some may inherit the Cane Corso’s short and sleek coat instead. Their coat colors also vary widely though black, cream, brown, and grey mixes are frequently seen.
Size and Weight
cane corso husky mixes are medium to large dogs, similar in size to a Labrador Retriever.
On average, these designer dogs reach 18 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 45 to 80 pounds at maturity.
Males are slightly taller and heavier than females on average.
Temperament
Their temperaments will be unique mixes of their Cane Corso and Siberian Husky parents. With early socialization and training these hybrids often excel as family companions.
Activity Level
Thanks to their Siberian Husky lineage, most cane corso husky mixes are high energy dogs. Be prepared to give them over an hour of vigorous daily exercise along with plenty of mental stimulation. Without this outlet for their energy they are prone to destructive behaviors.
Trainability
Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and generally eager to please, making this crossbreed moderately easy to train.
Potential challenges come from the Siberian Husky’s independence and high prey drive. Early obedience training and socialization helps temper their free-spirited nature. Their high energy also necessitates keeping training sessions short and engaging.
Behavior with Other Pets and Children
In general, well-socialized cane corso husky mixes interact wonderfully with children. Though supervision is still required given their large size and tendency to jump and mouth.
They can be aggressive towards unfamiliar dogs so extensive socialization is a must. With feline housemates, their high prey drive means they may instinctively give chase.
Grooming Needs
Despite heavy seasonal shedding, the cane corso husky mix does not require extensive grooming. Their short to medium length coats need only weekly brushing to minimize shedding. Bathing should be done every few months or only when dirty.
As a medium to large breed cross, other routine care includes dental hygiene, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Their floppy ears prone to developing infections if not regularly cleaned out.
Health and Lifespan
Crossbreed dogs enjoy good health and longevity when responsibly bred. Reputable breeders screen for health issues common in both parental breeds.
Common Health Issues
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy
- Heart conditions
- Bloat
Reputable breeders test breeding stock for these heritable conditions and only breed the healthiest dogs.
Lifespan
When properly cared for, the expected lifespan of a cane corso husky mix is 10-13 years. Provide them high quality nutrition, regular veterinary care, daily exercise, and mental stimulation for optimal longevity.
Finding a Reputable Breeder
With rapidly rising popularity, disreputable breeders hoping to cash in on designer dog demand may intentionally breed for unique colors or other external traits over health.
Here are things to look for in a responsible cane corso husky mix breeder:
- Health tested breeding stock – Both parental breeds tested and cleared for breed-associated genetic diseases
- Well-socialized puppies – Puppies handled extensively from birth and started on housetraining
- Veterinarian records provided – Documented age-appropriate deworming and vaccinations
- Health guarantees – Good breeders stand behind their puppies with a health guarantee
Quality breeders focus on producing the healthiest puppies demonstrating the best temperaments over aesthetics.
Adopting a Mix
If interested in skipping the puppy stage, adopting an adult cane corso husky mix from your local shelter or rescue allows you to avoid health issues associated with irresponsible breeding.
The perfect dog for your lifestyle may be patiently waiting! An added benefit is learning about their temperament and energy levels beforehand.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation Needs
Daily activity expectations for a cane corso husky mix are demanding. As high energy dogs bred from working stock, they thrive best with owners providing:
- At least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily – Their athleticism suits them for canine sports like agility, flyball and running alongside bicycles. Cold weather is no deterrent to their Siberian Husky heritage!
- Stimulating toys and games – Incorporate treat puzzles, hide-and-seek with toys and fetch into both indoors/outdoor playtime. These keep their agile minds engaged.
- Job for them to do – Their working dog backgrounds means they benefit from having tasks such as carrying doggy backpacks on walks, tracking games in the yard or agility equipment to master.
Mental stimulation is just as vital as physical activity for these intelligent hybrids. Failing to meet their needs often leads to boredom and destructive behaviors. Their cleverness also means they excel at opening doors/cabinets and require extra containment precautions!
Living Accommodations
The cane corso husky mix adapts well to most home environments including apartments – so long as their extensive daily exercise requirements are met!
Their moderate tendency to be vocal means condo/apartment living requires investment in sound proofing. Access to a securely fenced yard is ideal.
Their fondness of being around their family means they can suffer separation anxiety. Crate training assists in easing any distress when left alone.
Cane corso Husky Mix Puppy Prices and Breeders
For a cane corso husky mix puppy that has been health tested and bred responsibly, expect to pay $800 to $2,000 USD.
Rare color mixes like black and white or merle coat patterns often fetch even higher premiums.
Breeders offering lower prices likely have not completed all health testing so proceed with caution. Avoid backyard breeders or pet stores selling these designer crossbreeds.
Be sure to ask if prospective breeders require spay/neuter contracts for pet puppies to prevent backyard breeding. Responsible breeders carefully screen buyers to ensure their puppies go to forever homes.
Adopting an Adult Cane Corso Husky Mix
If going through the puppy chewing phase isn’t for you, consider adopting an adult cane corso husky mix!
Shelters and breed specific rescues are filled with mixes searching for their forever homes. The bonus is knowing their full grown size, personalities and energy levels beforehand.
Adoption fees typically range from $50 to $500 which includes vaccinations, deworming, spay/neuter and microchip registration.
Ask questions about health and behavior quirks the dog may have. Shelters aim to match personalities and lifestyles so you find the perfect match!
Conclusion
The unique cane corso husky mix brings together the strong guardian instincts of the Cane Corso and athletic Siberian Husky. While the blend of personality and physical traits remains a guessing game until maturity, these intelligent hybrids have high potential as active companions.
Providing the extensive daily exercise, training reinforcement and quality nutrition needed by these crossbreeds does require commitment. For adventure seeking owners, the payoff is a fun-loving and devoted canine buddy for life!
Have more questions about this popular new hybrid breed? Ask below in the comments!
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