Cane Corso Factfile
Cane Corsos are Italy’s gift to the dog world. They’re one of the strongest and most powerful dog breeds, famous for their loyal and protective nature. Here are the essentials you need to know about this beloved breed:
- Size: Large to giant (40–50+ kg)
- Lifespan: 9–12 years
- Energy Level: Moderate to high
- Common Health Concerns: Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (GDV), cardiomyopathy, skin issues, allergies
- Known for: Protective instincts, muscular frame, gentle loyalty with family
- Ideal Diet: High-protein, joint-supportive, heart-healthy, easily digestible
With their muscular build and guarding heritage, Cane Corsos require a diet that supports strength, stamina, and overall wellbeing. Proper nutrition is essential to avoid the common problems faced by these majestic pooches, such as joint deterioration and digestive problems.
How Much Food Should a Cane Corso Eat?
These dogs have serious appetites, but feeding must be balanced to prevent weight-related joint stress or bloating. Adult Cane Corsos typically need 60–70 kcal per kg of body weight per day, meaning that the average Cane Corso requires between 2,000–2,800 kcal/day. Now that’s a lot of food!
Cane Corso Feeding Tips:
- Use slow-feeder bowls to slow them down – Cane Corsos have big mouths and even bigger appetites!
- Never feed right before or after heavy exercise – always wait an hour to give their stomachs time to settle
- Adjust portion sizes depending on activity levels or age
- Watch for signs of bloating or digestive upset, especially in deep-chested dogs
Common Cane Corso Health Problems and How Diet Helps
Largely due to their size, Cane Corsos are prone to a number of health issues. Luckily, many of these can be prevented with good lifestyle choices, such as plenty of exercise and a healthy, balanced diet. Some key health issues faced by this breed, and ingredients that can help include:
- Joint Problems: Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s, and anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric can do wonders in supporting a Cane Corso’s joint health.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): Bloat can be avoided by opting for low-fat meal options and making use of slow feeders
- Heart Disease: Diets rich in taurine, L-carnitine, and omega-3 fatty acids are excellent in supporting healthy heart muscle function
- Skin Conditions and Allergies: Hypoallergenic diets with limited ingredients can be great for reducing skin flare-ups in your beloved Cane Corso
Can a Cane Corso Eat a Vegan Diet?
Yes! A complete and balanced vegan diet can be highly beneficial for Cane Corsos, especially those that contain essential amino acids from high-quality plant proteins. High quality vegan dog foods also often contain natural anti-inflammatory ingredients, as well as omega-3 and a range of vitamins and minerals that support joint health in large breed dogs.
The Best Dog Food for Cane Corsos
The best dog food for a Cane Corso is one that meets the following criteria:
- High in protein to support their large, muscular frame
- Moderate in fat with complex carbs for steady energy release
- Fortified with joint-supporting nutrients
- Enriched with taurine and carnitine for heart health
- Hypoallergenic if your Corso has sensitivities
- Free from fillers, wheat, and artificial additives
Great Ingredients for Your Cane Corso
Whether they’re managing joint stress, navigating sensitivities, or maintaining their impressive physique, providing your Cane Corso with the right ingredients (and the precise quantities!) is absolutely crucial. Instead of artificial preservatives, unnecessary fillers, and common allergens such as beef and dairy, prioritise foods that feature:
| Ingredient | Why It’s Good for Cane Corsos |
| Sweet Potato | A great match for high energy breeds, sweet potato can supports digestion, helping to regulate bowel movements and promote a healthy gut microbiome as well as keeping your Cane Corso’s energy levels in tip top condition |
| Quinoa | As a complete plant protein, quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for building and maintaining the Cane Corso’s impressive muscle mass without relying on animal proteins that can trigger sensitivities |
| Chia & Flax Seeds | These tiny powerhouses are fantastic sources of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, helping to promote good cardiovascular health, critical to keeping your Cane Corso’s heart in good shape |
| Turmeric | Brilliant for managing joint pain and stiffness, turmeric is an excellent natural anti-inflammatory ingredient for large breeds such as the Cane Corso |
| Lentils | The fibre-rich protein and complex carbs found in lentils help sustain energy without leading to unwanted weight gain |
| Pumpkin | Whether your Cane Corso is prone to constipation or loose stools, pumpkin is a great way to aid digestion and help regulate your dog’s bowel movements |
Which HOWND Food and Treats Are Best for Your Cane Corso?
HOWND’s plant-powered options are especially useful for a large, sensitive breed like the Cane Corso:
Food and Treats for Cane Corsos
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Hearty Quinoa & Pumpkin Casserole with Organic Hemp Protein & Moringa (400g)
Price range: £3.50 through £84.00 – or subscribe -
Yup You Stink! Wellness Treats (100g)
Price range: £2.51 through £20.06 – or subscribe -
Keep Calm Wellness Treats (100g)
Price range: £2.51 through £20.06 – or subscribe -
Delicious Pumpkin Quinoa & Moringa Superfood (2kg & 10kg)
Price range: £15.39 through £123.12 – or subscribe
Cane Corso Feeding Tips
- Divide daily calories between two meals to help prevent bloat
- Use puzzle toys or slow bowls to help prevent them from wolfing food down too fast!
- Monitor body condition and weight frequently, as unnecessary weight can lead to added strain on a Cane Corso’s joints
- Transition to new foods slowly over 5–7 days
- Always provide clean, fresh water
Thoughts from HOWND’s Pet Nutritionist
“Feeding a Cane Corso is about more than calories—it’s about joint preservation, heart health, and balanced energy. Our plant-powered meals provide the nutrients large breeds need while helping avoid the allergens and inflammation that can cause chronic issues.”
Wrapping It Up
Feeding your Cane Corso with care and intention can help them live a longer, healthier, and more comfortable life. Focus on protein, joint support, heart health, and digestion-friendly ingredients to help support this powerful breed from puppyhood, right through to their senior years.
