Welcoming a litter of Cane Corso puppies is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s also one that comes with challenges. As with all breeds, some loss in Cane Corso litters is normal and unavoidable. Recognizing the causes and statistics associated with puppy loss is important for breeders and prospective owners alike. This knowledge can help set realistic expectations while guiding efforts to raise healthy and thriving Cane Corso puppies.

What Is Normal Puppy Loss in Cane Corso Litters?

Cane Corso puppies, like all large-breed dogs, are susceptible to certain risks during the critical neonatal period—the first two weeks of life. Despite the attentive care of an experienced breeder, some puppies may not survive due to congenital issues, environmental factors, or failure to thrive.

Research indicates that neonatal mortality rates in dogs range between 10% and 30%, and Cane Corsos typically fall within this range. Larger litters often experience slightly higher loss rates due to competition for maternal resources, and first-time mothers (dams) may face additional challenges.

Common Causes of Puppy Loss in Cane Corso Litters

1. Congenital Defects

Cane Corso puppies may be born with structural abnormalities, such as cleft palates, underdeveloped lungs, or heart defects. These issues are often undetectable before birth and can make survival impossible for affected puppies.

2. Fading Puppy Syndrome

Some Cane Corso puppies fail to thrive despite appearing healthy at birth. Known as "Fading Puppy Syndrome," this condition can result from various factors, including low birth weight, infection, or internal abnormalities. Puppies that fail to nurse and gain weight are at the highest risk.

3. Infections

Newborn Cane Corso puppies have immature immune systems, leaving them vulnerable to bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Even in well-maintained whelping environments, infections such as sepsis or pneumonia can occur.

4. Maternal Trauma or Neglect

In some cases, puppies may be accidentally injured or smothered by the dam. This is more likely in larger Cane Corso litters, where puppies may compete for space and access to milk. Inexperienced or stressed dams may also neglect weaker puppies.

5. Premature Birth

Premature puppies, while rare, can face significant survival challenges due to underdeveloped organs.

6. Low Birth Weight

Cane Corso puppies born significantly smaller than their littermates may struggle to nurse and regulate their body temperature, making them more prone to fading or infection.

Statistics on Puppy Loss in Cane Corso Litters

While every litter is unique, statistics on neonatal mortality provide insight into what breeders can expect:

• General Neonatal Mortality Rate:
  The normal range for puppy loss is 10-30%, depending on litter size, dam experience, and breeding conditions.
• Litter Size Impact:
  Cane Corso litters, which often include 6-10 puppies, may experience higher loss rates in larger litters due to competition for milk and maternal attention.
• Low Birth Weight Mortality:
  Puppies born 25% or more below the average weight of their littermates are significantly more likely to succumb to failure to thrive.
• First-Time Mothers:
  First-time Cane Corso dams may experience higher loss rates due to inexperience or increased stress during whelping and nursing.

How Breeders Can Reduce Puppy Loss

While some loss is inevitable, Cane Corso breeders can take proactive steps to minimize risks and support their puppies' health during the critical neonatal period:

1. Pre-Breeding Health Checks

Thorough health screenings for the dam and sire can reduce the risk of genetic defects and complications during whelping.

2. Assisted Whelping

Being present during delivery allows breeders to assist with difficult births, clear airways, and immediately address weak or struggling puppies.

3. Optimal Whelping Environment

Cane Corso puppies need a clean, warm, and quiet environment. Maintaining a temperature of 85-90°F in the whelping box for the first week is crucial for preventing hypothermia.

4. Monitoring Nursing and Weight Gain

Cane Corso puppies must nurse frequently to build strength and immunity. Weak puppies may need supplemental feeding with puppy formula to ensure adequate nutrition.

5. Prompt Veterinary Care

A strong partnership with a veterinarian ensures that any signs of infection or distress in the dam or puppies are addressed quickly.

6. Socialization and Handling

Gentle handling helps monitor each puppy’s progress and can identify potential issues early.

Conclusion

Losing a puppy is always heartbreaking, but it is often a natural part of breeding Cane Corsos. Understanding the causes and statistics of neonatal loss can help breeders and owners approach the process with compassion and realistic expectations. By prioritizing the health and well-being of the dam and her puppies, breeders can minimize risks and raise healthy, thriving litters.

At Son of Atkin’s Cane Corso, we are dedicated to the health and happiness of our dogs and their puppies. With meticulous care, attention to detail, and years of experience, we work tirelessly to ensure the best outcomes for our litters. For more information about our breeding practices or to learn more about Cane Corso puppies, feel free to contact us.