Does a Cane Corso Shed? (2024)

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For anyone considering getting a dog, it’s essential to do your research to ensure you are getting a breed that is the right fit for you and your lifestyle. One of the biggest concerns people have when considering a new dog is whether or not they will shed. 

Let’s be honest; no one wants to constantly clean up dog hair! So, today, we’re giving you the lowdown on Cane Corso shedding and ways to keep it in check.

Other articles you would like: Belgian Malinois Cane Corso Mix Guide and Do Cane Corsos Drool A Lot?

Does Cane Corso Shed?

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If you’ve been wondering, “Does a Cane Corso shed?” the simple answer is yes, Cane Corsos do shed. However, they don’t shed nearly as much as other breeds, thanks to their shorter double coats, and they aren’t a heavy-shedding breed. 

In fact, compared to other dogs, the amount a Corso sheds is minimal and largely depends on individual circumstances, such as how often they are brushed and their diet.

What Is a Double-Coated Dog?

Some dog breeds, like the Cane Corso, are called double-coated because they have two layers of fur: a thick, dense undercoat and a softer outer coat. 

The outer coat is the layer of hair you see when you look at a dog, and it helps protect the undercoat from dirt, debris, and other elements. The undercoat keeps these dogs warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and it’s also the layer dogs shed the most.

Are Cane Corsos Hypoallergenic?

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No, Cane Corsos are not hypoallergenic. No dog, short of hairless breeds, is truly hypoallergenic. Still, some breeds shed less and produce less dander, which is one of the primary triggers of allergies.

However, Corsos are considered a low-shedding breed, which means they are a better choice for people with allergies but are not entirely allergy-free.

Do Cane Corsos Shed a Lot?

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So, do Cane Corso shed a lot? When it comes to how much hair a Corso sheds, it varies from dog to dog. Some might shed more or less than others, but all will shed at least some hair throughout the year. So, it ultimately depends on each individual dog. 

That said, Corsos are not considered a heavy-shedding breed like the German Shepherd, so you can expect low shedding rather than copious amounts of hair all over your home.

During shedding season (usually spring and fall), you’ll likely notice an increase in the amount of hair your dog is shedding. Most dogs shed their fur more during the spring and fall because they adjust to changing weather and temperature. 

For example, they’ll shed their winter coats in the spring to prepare for the warmer months ahead. Then, they’ll do the opposite in the fall and shed their summer coat to grow a thicker, warmer one for winter.

While they may not look like they have much of an undercoat, don’t be fooled—that hair is there. During these seasonal changes, brushing a Cane Corso more often helps reduce the amount of hair that ends up on furniture and clothing.

Climate and Location

Another factor that determines how much a Cane Corso sheds is the climate and location they live in. Shedding is typically a seasonal thing for dogs.

So, if they’re living in an area with extreme weather changes (hot summers and cold winters), a Cane Corso may shed more than usual as they adjust to the changing seasons.

Corsos who are outdoors often shed less than those who spend most of their time indoors. This is because their bodies can gradually adjust to changes in temperature and daylight, which triggers shedding.

On the other hand, indoor dogs are exposed to a more constant temperature and don’t get as much natural light.

How To Reduce Cane Corso Shedding

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Corsos are a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require any care at all. Luckily, there are ways to help minimize shedding and keep your dog’s coat healthy and looking its best.

Regular Brushing

Regular brushing is vital to keeping a Cane Corso’s shedding under control. By brushing them a few times a week, you help remove loose hair before it has a chance to fall out on its own and end up all over your house.

Not to mention, it feels good for them! They’ll love the extra pampering, and you’ll love having less hair to clean up.

As far as brushes go, a bristle brush is a good option for general brushing, but you may also consider investing in a de-shedding tool or comb.

These types of brushes are designed to reach the undercoat and remove loose hair without damaging the topcoat. Just remember to be gentle – you don’t want to irritate their skin in the process.

Proper Grooming

In addition to regular brushing, you’ll also want to bathe your Corso as needed, usually about once every two to three months. 

Use a moisturizing shampoo to avoid drying out their skin, which can actually lead to further shedding.

After bathing, make sure to thoroughly rinse all the soap out of their coat—any leftover shampoo can irritate their skin and cause, you guessed it, the dreaded shedding.

There are many options available for shampoo, but you’ll want to choose one specifically designed for dogs.

These shampoos often contain ingredients that help reduce shedding, such as oatmeal or aloe vera. Avoid human shampoo, as it can be harsh on a dog’s skin.

After the bath, take the time to wipe down their ears with a damp cloth to keep them clean and prevent infection. Their nails should also be trimmed monthly, which is something you can do yourself at home or take them to a professional groomer.

Quality Dog Food

A healthy diet is essential for all dogs, but it’s especially crucial for those with double coats like the Cane Corso.

Before making any diet changes, consult your vet first. They can make recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs and health history.

In general, the first ingredient on the list should be a named meat source, such as chicken, lamb, or beef. Avoid foods that list generic terms like “meat” or “poultry” as the first ingredient, as these can be of lower quality and provide fewer nutrients.

The second and third ingredients should be whole grains like brown rice or oats. Steer clear of foods that list fillers like corn or soybean meal, as these are common allergens in dogs. There are also grain-free options available if your dog is allergic to grains.

Finally, look at the food’s vitamin and mineral content. Good dog food will have vitamins E and C for immunity, calcium for strong bones, and omega-3 fatty acids to support their skin and coat.

The omega-3s are especially important for double-coated dogs as they help to maintain the coat’s natural moisture balance.

What Can Cause Excessive Shedding in Cane Corsos?

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Shedding is an unavoidable and natural part of being a dog, and there’s no way to completely stop it. However, if a Cane Corso is shedding more than usual, it could indicate an underlying health condition.

Excessive shedding is often the symptom of things like allergies, stress, poor diet, and hormonal imbalances. Let’s dig into each of these a bit further.

Skin Conditions

Allergies are an increasingly widespread problem among dogs, and while they cause many different symptoms, the most common is hair loss.

When a dog is allergic to something, be it its food or environment, its body produces histamines in an attempt to remove the allergen. 

Unfortunately, this over-reactivity of the immune system causes local inflammation, such as redness, swelling, and itching, which, in turn, cause excessive biting and scratching in dogs.

Parasitic Hypersensitivity

Fleas and ticks are not only a nuisance but can also cause your dog to shed excessively. This is because these parasites can trigger an allergic reaction in your dog, causing its skin to become irritated and inflamed.

Fortunately, topical treatments and oral medications can help eliminate fleas and ticks, as well as the resulting hair loss.

Adverse Food Reactions

Sometimes, the culprit of excessive shedding is simply the dog’s food. Dogs can, unfortunately, be allergic to many things in their food, including beef, chicken, corn, soy, and wheat.

These allergies aren’t just uncomfortable for your dog—they can lead to excessive shedding.

Veterinarians can often diagnose food allergies by conducting a food trial. This involves feeding your dog a limited ingredient diet for 12 weeks to see if their symptoms improve, then returning to their regular food to see if the symptoms return.

If they do, the dog is likely allergic to one of the ingredients in its original food.

Environmental Allergens

Dogs can also be allergic to things in their environment, such as pollen, mold, and dust mites. These allergies often manifest as seasonal allergies and can cause your dog to shed excessively during certain times of the year. 

They don’t have to suffer through it, though. If a dog shows signs of allergies, a vet may recommend a medicated shampoo or an allergy shot to help relieve its symptoms.

Stress

Like humans, dogs can experience stress, meaning they can also suffer from stress-induced hair loss.

Dogs are notoriously sensitive to change and can become stressed for various reasons, such as being left alone, moving to a new place, or even losing a family member. 

While stress shedding is usually temporary, it can signify a more serious behavioral problem, such as separation anxiety.

Poor Diet

We all know how a bad diet can lead to a host of health concerns in humans, and this is true for dogs as well. If a Cane Corso isn’t getting the nutrients it needs from its food, it can lead to some problems, including excessive shedding.

A poor diet may even cause your dog to develop nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to other health issues.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances are another possible cause of excessive shedding in dogs. Cushing’s disease is one of the most common types of hormonal imbalance found in dogs.

It’s caused by the overproduction of cortisol and can lead to increased thirst, urination, and hair loss. If left untreated, Cushing’s disease can be debilitating or even fatal.

Conclusion For “Does a Cane Corso Shed?”

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So, does a Cane Corso shed? All in all, the Cane Corso is a low to moderate shedder. Although they shed, the amount of hair they lose is relatively minimal compared to other breeds of dogs. 

By brushing them regularly, giving them occasional baths, and feeding them a high-quality diet, you can help to reduce the amount of shedding even further.

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For more information about the Cane Corso Breed, check out the video below: