Choosing a Cane Corso puppy is a major commitmentāthis powerful and intelligent breed needs a strong foundation from day one. The best way to ensure your puppy starts life healthy and stable is by choosing a reputable breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and ethical practices.
Unfortunately, not all breeders operate with integrity. Puppy mills and careless breeders often cut corners, leading to health and behavioral issues down the road.
In this guide, weāll walk you through the red flags to watch for when searching for a Cane Corso breeder and provide resources to help you make an informed choice. check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
š What Makes a Breeder āReputableā?
A reputable Cane Corso breeder:
- Prioritizes health testing and provides documentation
- Socializes puppies early and responsibly
- Has a deep knowledge of the Cane Corso breed standard
- Asks you questions to ensure you’re a good fit
- Offers a contract and health guarantee
- Is transparent about the puppyās environment, parents, and lineage
You can find a list of AKC-registered breeders through the AKC Marketplace, where breeders must meet basic health and registration standards.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
š© Red Flags When Choosing a Cane Corso Breeder
Not all breeders are created equal. If you spot one or more of the following warning signs, proceed with cautionāor walk away entirely.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
ā 1. No Health Testing or Certifications
Reputable breeders test for genetic conditions common in Cane Corsos, such as:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Heart disease
- Eye disorders
If a breeder cannot provide health certifications from organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF), itās a major red flag.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
ā 2. Will Sell to Anyone, No Questions Asked
Good breeders care where their puppies go. If someone is willing to sell a Cane Corso puppy to you without asking about your experience, home setup, or plans for training, thatās a problem.
Responsible breeders will:
- Interview you first
- Require a signed contract
- Offer a return policy if the dog canāt stay in your home
According to the Humane Society of the United States, any breeder who avoids these steps may be more interested in profit than puppy welfare.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
ā 3. Puppies Are Always Available or Sold Online
A breeder with āpuppies always availableā is likely overbreeding. Similarly, be cautious of sellers who list Cane Corso puppies on classified sites like Craigslist or sell through third-party brokers.
Reputable breeders often have waiting lists and may only breed a couple of litters per year to ensure proper care and socialization.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
ā 4. Wonāt Let You Visit
You should always be able to see where the puppies are raised. If a breeder refuses to let you visit the home or kennelāor wants to meet in a parking lotāthatās a red flag.
Ethical breeders welcome visits and are proud to show you their facilities, the puppiesā living conditions, and the parent dogs.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
ā 5. No Contract or Health Guarantee
A reputable Cane Corso breeder provides a written health guarantee, including:
- A return policy
- Proof of vaccines and deworming
- Spay/neuter agreement (if not breeding)
- Responsibility for genetic health issues for a specified period
If the breeder avoids contracts or guarantees, it likely means they donāt stand behind the quality or health of their dogs.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
ā Where to Start Your Search
To ensure youāre working with a trustworthy source, use these U.S.-based resources:
- AKC Cane Corso Breeders
- Cane Corso Association of America (CCAA)
- Humane Society’s Breeder Checklist.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us
š¶ Final Thoughts
Finding a Cane Corso puppy from a reputable breeder takes timeābut itās worth it. Youāre not just buying a dogāyouāre investing in the next 10ā12 years of your life with a strong, intelligent companion. Avoid red flags, ask the right questions, and do your research to ensure you bring home a healthy, stable, and well-socialized Cane Corso.check our Cane Corso Puppies or Contact Us