At What Age Does a Cane Corso’s Head Split? Truths VS Myths
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The Cane Corso’s most distinctive characteristic is its head. It has a classic molasses head with a perimeter measured at the cheekbones that is more than twice the overall length of the head.
In other words, the Corso’s skull is twice as long as its snout, and the width of its cheekbones is equivalent to its skull’s length.
As they grow older, the Cane Corso’s head will start to split, contributing further to its distinctive appearance and making it stand out among other dog breeds.
However, this change om the head size might not always be noticeable, which causes most dog owners to wonder when it happens.
So, at what age does a Cane Corso’s head split? A cane Corso’s head splits when it’s about 12 to 14 months. Head splitting means the dog’s head will start to grow larger until it reaches its full size in adulthood. This growth happens at different rates, so it might not always be noticeable to the owners.
Continue reading to learn more about whether head splitting is a real thing and the age at which Cane Corso becomes fully grown.
Is “Head Splitting” A Real Thing or A Myth?

Head splitting is a real thing that happens to most dog breeds. It’s the process through which the dog’s head grows larger in size as the dog reaches full maturity and becomes an adult.
Many people think that the term “head split” or “head crack” indicates that the dog’s head is literally being split apart. However, that’s physically impossible; it’s only called that because when the dog’s head grows larger, a distinctive ridge appears between its ears, which appears like a split or crack.
At What Age Does a Cane Corso’s Head Split?

A Cane Corso’s head starts to split when they’re about 12 to months old as this is the age when the dog will reach maturity. The process might continue until the dog’s head reaches its full size, which is at about 2 years of age.
Throughout the head-splitting process, the Cane Corso’s facial muscles will grow at a certain rate, and a distinctive ridge will appear at the top of its head.
The growth rate of the dog’s head will vary, so it might be noticeable to some owners. However, many owners try to measure the dog’s head size and track the process of head-splitting to ensure that the dog is growing at a normal rate.
I have another guide that explains how the same process happens to Pit Bulls; check out my guide to when Pit Bulls heads split here.
At What Age Is A Cane Corso Fully Grown?
Cane Corsos tend to grow at a consistent rate. They reach full growth when they reach 12 to 14 months of age. However, for some dogs, it can take longer to reach full growth.
At full growth, male Can Corsos weigh between 85 and 95 pounds and stand at 25.5 to 26 inches. Meanwhile, female Cane Corsos weigh between 80 and 90 pounds and stand at 25 to 26 inches.
The growth rate and the size the dog reaches full growth vary from one dog to another, depending on multiple factors such as the dog’s genetics, gender, health, diet, and exercise.
If your dog doesn’t appear to be growing at a normal rate or doesn’t reach its full size by the time it’s 2-3 years old; then it’s recommended to take it to a veterinarian to check if there are any underlying health problems hindering the dog’s growth.
The Cane Corso’s Growth Stages

To help you determine whether your dog is growing at a normal rate, let’s break down the growth stages of both male and female Cane Corsos, beginning from the age of 2 months until they reach full growth at 12 months.
Keep in mind that these measures might vary from one dog to another depending on the previously mentioned factors.
Cane Corsos at 2 to 3 months
At the age of 2 to 3 months, male Can Corsos tend to weigh between 34 and 38 pounds and stand at 12 to 17 inches.
Meanwhile, female Cane Corsos tend to weigh between 30 to 35 pounds and stand at 12 to 16 inches.
Cane Corsos at 4 to 5 months
At the age of 4 to 5 months, male Can Corsos tend to weigh between 42 to 55 pounds and stand at 17 to 22 inches.
Meanwhile, female Cane Corsos tend to weigh between 38 and 50 pounds and stand at 16 to 21 inches.
Cane Corsos at 6 to 10 months
At the age of 6 to 10 months, male Can Corsos tend to weigh between 60 and 80 pounds and stand at 22 and 25 inches.
Meanwhile, female Cane Corsos tend to weigh between 55 and 72 pounds and stand at 21 to 24 inches.
Cane Corsos at 12 to 14 months
At the age of 12 to 14 months, male Can Corsos tend to weigh between 85 and 95 pounds and stand at 25.5 to 26 inches.
Meanwhile, female Cane Corsos tend to weigh between 80 and 90 pounds and stand at 25 to 26 inches.
Related Questions
How Tall Should A 3-Month-Old Cane Corso Be?
A 3-month-old Cane Corso should be about 12 to 17 inches tall. However, the height can vary depending on the dog’s gender, as male dogs tend to stand taller than female dogs. It will also vary depending on the dog’s genetics and overall health.
At What Age Do Cane Corsos Become Emotionally Mature?
Cane Corsos become emotionally mature at the age of 12 to 14 months which is when they’re considered to be fully adults. It’s highly important to start the dog’s training and the socialization process before it reaches emotional maturity to prevent it from developing behavioral problems.
At What Age Do Cane Corsos Sexually Mature?
Cane Corsos become sexually mature at the age of 6 months. At that time, they will be ready for mating and start going into heat regularly. However, it’s not recommended to breed Cane Corsos until they’re at least 12 months old, as this is when they reach full physical maturity.
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Helpful Resources
Cane Corso Dog Breed Information
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