Many people might be puzzled upon seeing a Blue Cane Corso for the first time. Because despite the presence of blue in his name, the colour cannot be found anywhere on his coat.
In this article, we will clarify the slight misunderstanding about the real coat colour of the Blue Cane Corso. You will also learn about the few health issues tied to this rare-coloured canine.
What Is the Real Coat Colour of the Blue Cane Corso?
The blue colour variation is not mentioned anywhere in the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for the Cane Corso dog breed. The same goes for the United Kennel Club (UKC) in the UK.
Thus, many dog lovers might mistakenly assume that this coat colour is not recognised by major kennel clubs.
But the truth is, the term blue actually refers to the colour grey with a tinge of bluish shimmer. This means the Blue Cane Corsos are grey-coated dogs.
This type of colour variation is accepted by both the AKC and UKC. According to their breed standards, Blue Cane Corsos may also sport small patches of white on their chest, chin, throat, and toes.
In general, Blue Cane Corso pups are born with dark blue coloured eyes. However, as they grow older, it will turn into either darker or lighter shades of brown. In AKC’s breed standard, blue eyes are deemed legible for disqualification.
What Is the Science Behind the Blue Cane Corso’s Coat Colour?
Blue Cane Corsos are a product of a recessive genetic mutation occurring in the melanophilin (MLPH) gene, which causes colour dilution. The presence of the dilute (d) locus waters down their coat colour.
Originally, Blue Cane Corsos supposedly have black coats, but the dilute gene suppresses the black pigment. As a result, their fur faded to grey.
For Cane Corso pups to possess a grey coat, they should be a carrier of two recessive dilute genes (dd). This means they need to inherit a copy of the gene from each of their parents.
Dogs with only a single copy of the dilute gene will not have grey coats. But if bred with another canine with this type of gene, some pups in their litter will be grey-furred.
What Coat Colour-Related Health Issues Does the Blue Cane Corso Have?
The recessive genetic mutation causing the colour dilution causes pigmentation abnormalities in the skin and hair of Blue Cane Corso dogs.
It can lead to the manifestation of various skin disorders. One of the most common is Colour Dilution Alopecia (CDA), also known as blue dog syndrome.
This incurable condition takes the form of patchy hair loss, hair thinning, dull coat, and flaky and itchy skin.
Constant scratching of the irritated areas of the skin may eventually lead to more serious health complications like secondary bacterial infections.
Blue Cane Corso dogs diagnosed with this disease will likely require long-term treatment. CDA can be effectively managed through oral medications, topical therapies, appropriate dietary changes, and supplements.
Due to his vulnerability to dermatological problems, owning a Blue Cane Corso can be costly, particularly when it comes to his vet bills.
How Much Grooming Does the Blue Cane Corso Need?
In general, the Cane Corso breed requires minimal brushing due to its short coat. Thus, brush Blue Cane Corsos at least 2 to 3 times a week.
Once their shedding season starts, which is around spring and fall, make brushing a daily part of his grooming routine. Be gentle when combing their fur as their skin is more sensitive compared to regular dogs.
Baths must be kept infrequent to avoid drying out their coat and skin. Unless they are extremely grimy and smelly, stick to once a month of bathing.
Only use a mild shampoo, especially for Blue Cane Corso dogs with skin problems.
When going outdoors, make sure they wear a proper outfit to protect their sensitive skin from the elements.
On a hot day, lather them with pet-safe sunblock and let them wear a comfy doggy shirt. During the winter season, have them don a well-fitted doggy sweater.
The Blue Cane Corso has drooping jowls that make him prone to drooling. Always have clean absorbent towels ready. Tying a handkerchief around his neck helps keep his neck and chest protected from his drool.
Does the Blue Cane Corso Fit in Well as a Family Pet?
The Cane Corso dog breed is a versatile canine used for hunting, protection, and companionship. Thus, Blue Cane Corsos can make a loyal and protective family dog with the right training and socialisation.
Never neglect these important aspects of dog ownership, especially when raising a dominating and headstrong canine. Otherwise, the protective instincts of the Blue Cane Corso can turn into a serious liability.
Training this dog is a very challenging task for novice pawrents because of his intensity and imposing physique. Experienced dog owners with a proper understanding of the canine’s temperament are more suited human companions for him.
Blue Cane Corso dogs may exhibit aggression toward other animals including dogs. So avoid housing them with other canines unless introduced early during puppyhood.
The high prey drive of these dogs makes them unsuitable companions for smaller pets like cats.
How Much Exercise Does the Blue Cane Corso Need?
The Blue Cane Corso comes from generations of working dogs. Thus, it is natural for him to be an active dog with high energy levels. He will require at least 80 minutes of physical exercise and mental stimulation daily.
Games like frisbee, fetch, and tug-of-war can help expend his extra energy. Do not forget to couple them with brain-challenging activities like puzzle toys, nose work, and hide-and-seek.
Make sure to balance these exercises to keep this brachycephalic dog from overheating.
Be warned that a handful of common Cane Corso health issues are orthopaedic in nature. The breed is prone to bone and joint problems like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.
These health conditions are more likely to develop early if Blue Cane Corso puppies are given excessive exercise. Hence, we suggest limiting their exercise duration and choosing less strenuous physical activities.
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FAQs About the Blue Cane Corso
1. What Is a Blue Cane Corso?
Blue Cane Corso are technically grey dogs whose fur has a bluish sheen. Their mesmerising coat colour is a result of a recessive genetic mutation, which dilutes black pigment into darker or lighter shades of grey.
2. Are Blue Cane Corsos Rare?
Blue Cane Corsos are rare dogs since their grey coats exist due to a rare recessive genetic mutation. As explained above, Cane Corso pups must possess two copies of the dilute gene to grow grey-coloured fur.
Those with only one copy will not produce this type of colour variation. But mating them with another dilute gene carrier increases the chances of birthing Blue Cane Corso pups.
3. Do Blue Cane Corso Eyes Stay Blue?
Although Blue Cane Corso pups are born with blue eyes, their peepers should not stay blue as they grow older. Their eyes will naturally change into various shades of brown, amber, or gold.
Blue eyes are considered a defect or fault by the AKC’s breed standard. Any Blue Cane Corso with this type of eye colour should not be used for breeding.
4. Is the Blue Cane Corso Similar to the Blue Blood Cane Corso?
No, the Blue Cane Corso is not similar to the Blue Blood Cane Corso. The former refers to a type of coat colour whilst the latter describes a mixed-breed dog.
The Blue Blood Cane Corso is a cross between the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog and the Cane Corso. Much like his parents, this hybrid dog is deeply loyal and fiercely protective of his pack.
Constant and consistent training and socialisation are important to sharpen his threat-detecting skills.
Conclusion
The Blue Cane Corso is simply a dog with grey fur. The genetic mutation responsible for his unique coat is associated with skin disorders like colour dilution alopecia. So pawrents should watch out for these types of health conditions.
Always be up to date with routine vet check-ups as they significantly help in early diagnosis and quick treatment of illnesses. If you are on a tight budget, our article “Ways to Help With Vet Bills for Low-Income Family “can help you find a solution.
