Cane Corsos are large breed dogs that grow up to be massive dogs. However, seeing your Cane Corso not growing to the expected size at different growth stages and being small can be concerning.
What can cause a Cane Corso to be so small?
Let’s look at the common reasons why a Cane Corso can be so small and when to seek help.
Why is my Cane Corso so small?
A Cane Corso can be so small because of their genetics, poor diet, illness, and gender differences that is, female dogs are typically smaller than the male dogs. It is normal for Cane Corsos to have a slow growth rate as a large breed dog and appear small with a healthy weight. However, medical evaluation is required to determine if they are developing well or have an underlying problem.
Cane Corso Size
The Cane Corso is a striking and powerful breed with a distinctive physical appearance. This Italian Mastiff is known for its robust and muscular build, exuding strength and athleticism. The average height and weight of adult dogs are:
Averages for the Male Cane Corso:
Height: 24 to 27.5 inches
Weight: 90 to 110 pounds
Averages for the Female Cane Corso:
Height: 23.5 to 26 inches
Weight: 80 to 100 pounds
Reasons Your Cane Corso Is So Small
When you bring a Cane Corso into your life, you expect a majestic and imposing companion. However, when they end up smaller than expected, it raises concern.
There are several common reasons why Cani Corsi may not reach their full-size potential. This includes:
Genes
Just like human children often inherit their parents’ physical traits, the Cane Corso follows a similar pattern. If your Cane Corso’s parents were on the smaller side, chances are your dog will also lean toward the smaller end of the spectrum.
Conversely, if the parental duo were on the larger side, your Cane Corso is more likely to grow into a bigger dog.
Sometimes, there might be a distant relative in your Cane Corso’s lineage who wasn’t a purebred Cane Corso.
These genes can occasionally pop up and alter the appearance and size of future generations. This typically occurs if one or both of the parents aren’t purebred Cane Corsi.
So, what can you do about this? Unfortunately, not much. The best course of action is to reach out to your Cane Corso’s breeder and ask for information about the parental lineage.
Purebred dogs are typically registered with kennel clubs and breed organizations that maintain pedigree records.
When selecting a Cane Corso, it’s important to choose a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder will prioritize the health and genetic diversity of their dogs, ensuring that they adhere to responsible breeding practices.
They conduct thorough health screenings and genetic testing to minimize the risk of inherited health conditions that can potentially stunt growth. Therefore by choosing a reputable breeder, this gives a strong foundation for your Cane Corso’s growth and overall well-being.
Poor diet
A small Cane Corso can be a result of underfeeding or malnutrition. Inadequate nutrition during the critical growth stages can stunt a Cane Corso’s growth and development.
Cani Corsi have specific dietary requirements due to their large size and rapid growth rate. It is important to feed them a balanced and appropriate diet that provides the necessary nutrients for healthy bone and muscle development.
If your dog doesn’t receive these nutrients in sufficient quantities or in the right proportions, it can lead to stunted growth and development.
Insufficient protein intake, for example, can hinder muscle development and overall growth, leading to a smaller and weaker appearance.
Illness
Certain health conditions can also contribute to the smaller size of a Cane Corso. Disorders such as hyperthyroidism can affect their growth and overall size.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones. This can result in increased metabolism and calorie consumption by the dog, leading to weight loss and muscle wasting.
Some underlying health conditions can lead to a decreased appetite. When a Cane Corso eats less than they need, they will lose weight and appear smaller and skinny over time.
Other health issues such as gastrointestinal problems or parasites can impact a Cane Corso’s ability to absorb nutrients from their food, resulting in suboptimal growth.
Gender differences
The male Cane Corso is slightly taller and heavier than the female Cane Corso. Therefore your dog may look small due to its gender.
Just like other animals, male dogs tend to be larger and stronger than their female counterparts. This is natural, therefore there is nothing to worry about.
While male and female Cani Corsi may have some minor size differences, these differences are generally not substantial.
How to Help Your Cane Corso Reach Its Potential Size
To ensure that your Cane Corso reaches its full potential size, there are several important factors to consider. By taking the necessary steps, you can help your dog grow into the majestic and impressive dog they were meant to be. These steps include:
Feed them a balanced diet
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in promoting healthy growth and development of a Cane Corso. Feeding them a balanced diet that meets their specific nutritional needs is important.
Consult with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine the appropriate diet for your Cane Corso, considering factors such as age, weight, and activity level.
High-quality dog food, formulated for large-breed puppies or adults, can provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth. Also, supplementing their diet with essential vitamins and minerals can further support their growth.
While it’s important to provide adequate nutrition, avoid overfeeding your Cane Corso. Overweight puppies may experience growth problems, and it’s important to maintain a healthy weight to avoid joint issues common in large breeds.
Regular veterinary check-ups
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring your Cane Corso’s growth and overall health.
Regular visits to the veterinarian allow for early detection and prevention of any potential health issues that could hinder their growth.
Your veterinarian can provide guidance on proper nutrition, exercise, and any specific health concerns related to your Cane Corso.
They can also administer necessary vaccinations and conduct routine screenings to ensure your Cane Corso remains in optimal health.
Regular exercise
Cani Corsi are active dogs that require regular exercise to develop strong muscles and maintain a healthy weight.
Engage in daily playtime, walks, and structured exercise routines to keep them fit and stimulated. Be cautious not to over-exercise puppies, as their joints are still developing.
Patience and time
The Cane Corso is a slow-growing breed, and it may take up to 18-24 months for them to reach their full size and maturity. Be patient and provide consistent care throughout their development.
Takeaway: Small Cane Corso
The size of your Cane Corso can be influenced by a variety of factors and it’s not uncommon to come across smaller individuals due to these factors.
Understanding why your Cane Corso may be smaller than expected is essential for their overall health and well-being.
It is essential to consult with a veterinarian to examine your dog. They can assess your dog’s overall health and provide guidance on how to help them reach their potential size.
Remember, every Cane Corso is unique, and their size may vary. Embrace and celebrate the individuality of your Cane Corso, regardless of their size. They are still the loving and loyal companions that we adore.
For more information on Cani Corsi and how to care for them, check out our comprehensive guide: The Cane Corso: A Guide for Owners.