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Cane Corso Health Guide
Please note that we are not veterinarians. Always consult your veterinarian with any health concerns.

Degenerative Spinal Radiculomyelopathy (DSRA) is a progressive spinal cord disease seen in large breed dogs like Cane Corsos. This condition leads to the degeneration of the spinal cord, causing weakness, loss of coordination, and eventually paralysis. Early signs include a wobbly gait and difficulty getting up or climbing stairs. Management involves providing supportive care, physical therapy, and ensuring a safe environment to prevent injuries. All breeding dogs should be tested for the DSRA gene, as both parents must carry the gene for it to be passed on. Preventive measures are limited, but maintaining a healthy weight and regular vet check-ups can help in early detection and management.

Degenerative Spinal Radiculomyelopathy (DSRA)

Degenerative Spinal Radiculomyelopathy (DSRA)

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint develops abnormally, leading to arthritis and pain. In Cane Corsos, it manifests as difficulty in standing up, reluctance to run or jump, and a swaying gait. Management includes weight control, joint supplements, and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgical options may be necessary. Preventive strategies involve careful breeding practices, including genetic testing using the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and PennHIP evaluations. A good OFA score is 'Fair' or better, and a PennHIP score should ideally be below 0.3. Maintaining an appropriate weight and activity level is also crucial.

Hip Dysplasia

Importance of health testing and signs to look out for.

Elbow dysplasia is a developmental condition that affects the elbow joints, leading to arthritis and pain. Signs include limping, stiffness, and reluctance to play. Management includes weight control, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Severe cases might require surgical intervention. Preventing elbow dysplasia involves selecting breeding stock with healthy elbows and ensuring genetic testing through OFA or PennHIP. A good OFA score for elbows is 'Normal.' Maintaining a healthy weight and activity level is essential to prevent joint issues.

Elbow Dysplasia

Importance of health testing and signs to look out for.

Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Symptoms include a swollen abdomen, restlessness, and unproductive retching. Immediate veterinary intervention is critical, and you have about 30 minutes to get your dog to an emergency vet. Preventive measures include using slow feeders to reduce gulping air, avoiding vigorous exercise at least 30 minutes after meals, and understanding why bloat happens. It occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including the dog's eating habits and anatomical structure.

Signs of Bloat

Fast killer to be aware of!

Pyometra is a severe infection of the uterus in unspayed female dogs. Symptoms include lethargy, vaginal discharge, and fever, and it can kill a dog in about 30 minutes if not treated. It requires immediate veterinary treatment, often involving surgery. Preventive measures include spaying your dog or using probiotics like raw goat’s milk

Pyometra in Female Dogs

This is an emergency situation!

Cherry eye occurs when the gland of the third eyelid prolapses, causing a red, swollen mass in the corner of the eye. It can be uncomfortable and lead to further complications if untreated. Early signs include excessive tearing and pawing at the eye. Treatment typically involves surgical correction to reposition the gland. However, non-surgical management can include gently massaging the gland back into place with a warm cloth. While cherry eye can have a genetic component, it is not always inherited, so regular eye check-ups are important for early detection and management

Cherry Eye

Cherry eye may be scary looking but there are options

Cane Corso puppies have rapidly growing joints that require special care to prevent long-term issues. Ensuring proper nutrition and avoiding excessive exercise are crucial during this growth phase. Their joints aren't fully developed until they are over a year to a year and a half old. Signs of joint problems include limping and difficulty standing up. Misalignment during this critical growth period can lead to significant issues like hip or elbow dysplasia, potentially resulting in medical bills up to $20,000. Recommendations include very short training sessions of about 15 minutes and slow, easy walks. A general guideline is to walk your puppy five minutes per month of age up to twice a day. Preventive measures include regular vet visits and monitoring your puppy’s activity levels.

Joint Growth and Puppy Precautions

Keeping young joints healthy!

Male Cane Corsos are prone to genetic heart problems such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Symptoms include coughing, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Management involves medications, dietary changes, and regular cardiac monitoring. Genetic testing before breeding is crucial, with OFA and other cardiac health assessments providing important information. Preventive strategies include maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your dog and ensuring proper genetic testing of breeding pairs.

Heart Problems in Males

Check the dad's heart.

Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Symptoms include a swollen abdomen, restlessness, and unproductive retching. Immediate veterinary intervention is critical, and you have about 30 minutes to get your dog to an emergency vet. Preventive measures include using slow feeders to reduce gulping air, avoiding vigorous exercise at least 30 minutes after meals, and understanding why bloat happens. It occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including the dog's eating habits and anatomical structure.

***This section is dedicated to your Ohio Cane Corso Meetup host, Mavis, who lost her battle to Cushing's June 2024****

Cushing's Disease

Rare but hard

Cane Corsos, being a brachycephalic breed, have shorter noses, which can lead to respiratory issues and heat exhaustion. Brachycephalic breeds are prone to conditions like brachycephalic airway syndrome, which includes stenosis, a narrowing of the nasal passages that further complicates breathing. Signs of heat exhaustion include excessive panting, drooling, and weakness. Management involves keeping your dog cool, providing plenty of water, and avoiding excessive heat. Dogs should not be left in environments over 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If moving to a hotter location, heat training your dog gradually and monitoring activity levels are crucial. If your dog is overheated and panting, do not give them water immediately; instead, place them in a cool area and apply ice packs to their neck, armpits, or belly. Ice cubes can be given slowly to cool them down internally.

Brachycephalic Breed

Things are heating up, fast!

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for Cane Corsos to prevent joint and health issues. Overweight dogs are at risk of arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Signs of being overweight include difficulty breathing and reduced activity. Management involves a balanced diet and regular exercise. Bragging about a heavy dog is not a flex; a healthy weight is more important. A healthy Cane Corso should have a defined waist and be able to feel their ribs without excess fat. Regular vet check-ups and avoiding overfeeding are key preventive strategies.

Managing Weight Issues

Bigger isn't better

Elbow calluses develop from repeated pressure on hard surfaces. They appear as rough, thickened skin patches on the elbows. While not painful, they can become cracked and infected, sometimes requiring surgery. Prevention involves providing soft bedding and encouraging your dog to use it, though some dogs prefer hard surfaces. Creams are available to moisturize and protect the skin, such as those by DOUXO and BANIXS Wound Care. Managing calluses includes regular monitoring and applying creams to keep the skin healthy.

Elbow Calluses

Sometimes things get ruff

Cane Corsos are prone to yeast infections, especially in their paws, where they sweat. Symptoms include itching, redness, and large, red bumps that can resemble tumors. These often occur when hair follicles become infected. Before spending money on vet visits, try creams such as DOUXO Pyo Mousse or BANIXS Wound Care, both available on Amazon. Watch for repetitive licking, as it can indicate a yeast infection. Regular grooming and keeping the paws dry and clean are essential preventive measures.

Skin Yeast Infections

Keep their gut healthy

Panosteitis, or puppy growing pains, is a condition where inflammation occurs in the long bones of growing puppies. Symptoms include limping and pain in the legs, which can be extremely painful despite Cane Corsos' high pain tolerance. Managing panosteitis involves rest, pain relief medications, and avoiding excessive exercise. Steroid shots or pain management from the vet may be necessary. CBD oil can also be used orally or topically. During flare-ups, limit any strenuous activity and focus on gentle, indoor training to avoid further inflammation.

Panosteitis

Puppy Growing Pains

Food grade diatomaceous earth is a natural product used for parasite control in dogs. It helps eliminate internal parasites like worms and can improve digestion and nutrient absorption. However, it's important to note that we are not medical doctors. This should be used in moderation, perhaps once or twice a month or when internal parasites are suspected. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new supplements into your dog's diet.

Diatomaceous Earth

Benefits of Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth

Glucosamine is essential for joint health in Cane Corsos. It helps maintain cartilage and reduce inflammation, improving mobility and reducing pain. We recommend Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength glucosamine for dogs, which can be given immediately, along with dog-friendly MSM supplements. Always consult with your vet before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it's appropriate for your dog.

Dog Appropriate Glucosamine

How glucosamine may help keep your Corso healthy.

Feeding raw bones is safer for dogs than cooked or smoked bones, which can splinter and cause injuries. Raw bones help clean teeth and provide essential nutrients. Safe raw bones include large beef bones, which are less likely to splinter, as well as antlers, cow ears, and other natural chews. Avoid cooked bones to prevent choking hazards and intestinal blockages.

Raw Bones vs. Cooked Bones

Not all bones are safe!

Dogs eating rocks may indicate a mineral deficiency in their diet. Symptoms include chewing on rocks and potential intestinal blockage. Management involves providing mineral supplements and addressing dietary deficiencies. There are various over-the-counter multivitamins available online that can be added to their food. Preventive measures include monitoring your dog’s behavior and ensuring a balanced diet to avoid the risk of needing surgery for blockages.

Dogs Eating Rocks

Something may be missing

Entropion in Cane Corsos

Entropion in Cane Corsos

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