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Writer's pictureRojae Hazel

Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Updated: Nov 23

In this article, here's a quick snippet of what's to come:


Not Sure which breed to get?

Whichever dog you choose all depends on what's important to you. Weather its the Cane Corso or Pitbull, lets compare the dog breeds to see which to consider.

First lets talk about what these dog were actually bred for. The Italian Mastiff also known generally as the Cane Corso are large breed dogs and was originally bred as a Guard dog with protective qualities to hunt with, say what? yea that's right, they are capable hunters, with speed and agility exceeding any other dog breed not to mention their powerful jaws. Makes you wonder what they were hunting for back in those days uh. These dogs are massive in size and generally will take on anything that threatens them. The Pitbull, otherwise known as the American Pit bull Terrier or bulldogs on the other hand was originally bred for bull-bating but later was mainly used for farming. They can be very aggressive and heck, you don't want to cross one unsupervised, trust me. Now lest compare their size and see who has the upper hand.


 

Size: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Weight

88-110 pounds

30-60 pounds

Build

Muscular, powerful

Athletic, muscular

Coat Colors

Black, gray, fawn, brindle

Wide variety of colors and patterns

Crate Size

XXL crate

Large crate

Cane Corso Size

From our table features above, here you can see that the Cane Corsos are larger and powerful dogs, weighing anywhere between 88-110 pounds. They are more muscular build, and tall, not to mention that classic ear cropping which gives them a meaner look. Their coat is short and comes in colors like black, gray, merle, and brindle. If you plan to travel with these bad boys you will definitely need an XXL crate size and a strong leech to hole them. Yes! you gonna want to keep that monthly gym subscription.


Pitbull Size

The American Pit bull Terrier are smaller in comparison, weighing at about 30-60 pounds. Despite their smaller size, they do have a more athletic, muscular build and fast. Pitbulls have a smooth coat that can come in many colors and patterns. Their heads are more squared with strong jaws. The are very energetic so put on a running shoe if you plan to go on a walk with this guy.


So who's the king in size?

Yea you called it. In the comparison between the Cane Corso vs Pitbull, the size difference is significant, with Cane Corso being much larger and more dominant.

The King Cane Corso wins this round.


 

Aggression: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Loyalty

Highly loyal

Very affectionate

Guarding Instinct

Excellent guard dog

Friendly, great with kids

Energy Level

Moderate

High

Barking

Alert barker

Less prone to barking

Stranger Reaction

Wary, protective

Friendly

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs. They are generally calm and confident but can be wary of strangers, once looked on these dogs will keep going, so be sure to train them well or else your relatives may end up as a piece of meat. A well trained Cane Corso is very affectionate and loving with their family. They are best suited for families looking for a strong protector who can also be a loyal companion.


Pitbull

The American Pit bull Terrier on the other hand are very energetic dogs that are often misunderstood due to this. Their reputation are on of a bad ass nature and can choose to respect no one when they are ticked off. In the family setting they are very people-oriented and are known to be great with children, earning them the nickname "nanny dogs." Pitbulls thrive on human companionship and are best for active families who are willing to spend time with them and invest in their socialization.


When comparing Cane Corso vs Pitbull in terms of temperament, the Pitbull tends to be more aggressive, while the Cane Corso is more watchful and will attack only when needed.

The Pitbull wins this round.


 

Training: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Trainability

Intelligent but dominant

Highly trainable

Best Training Method

Positive reinforcement, firm leadership

Positive reinforcement, early socialization

Suitable For

Experienced trainers

First-time owners (with guidance)

Leash Thickness

Thicker leash for control

Standard leash

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are intelligent, have a dominant personality and more aggressive than pit bulls, which means they require a firm and consistent trainer to handle their temperament. This can be difficult for family who are not very flexible with time. They respond well to clear boundaries and positive reinforcement, they have a powerful bite force and are best handled by experienced owners who can provide structured training from an early age. As they get older they become more difficult to handle in terms of size compared with other breeds, so a regular gym membership for yourself maybe needed, yea also best to stock up on those dog treats.


Pitbull

The American Pit bull Terrier are very upbeat, willing to play and thus makes them great at obedience training. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods, socializing with them is important for them to be well-behaved and well-adjusted. because of there unique wit and attentiveness to their surrounding they also do well with advanced training and agility exercises. While having a less bite force there ability to tear rapidly from side to side gives them an edge while competing with other dog breeds. Training them requires energy on your part but that's nothing a proteins bar wont cure.


The Cane Corso vs Pitbull comparison in trainability shows that both breeds are intelligent, but Cane Corsos require a more experienced trainer due to their dominant nature.

The Pitbull wins this round.


 

Exercise: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Exercise Needs

Moderate

High

Preferred Activities

Daily walks, mental stimulation

Running, playtime, agility training

Adaptability

Can adapt to smaller spaces with exercise

Needs frequent physical activity

Walking Needs

Less frequent, moderate walks

More frequent, high-energy walks

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos does not have a lot of exercise needs. They do require daily walks and play to stay happy, At least 45mins each morning. A large yard is ideal for this breed, but they can adapt to smaller spaces if they are given sufficient exercise. Chew toys, dog sticks and toy balls for dog can get them moving without much effort on the owners part.


Pitbull

The American Pit bull Terrier are high-energy dogs that need plenty of physical activity to stay happy. They enjoy regular playtime, running around and will do virtually anything that seems chaotic. Without adequate exercise, Pitbulls can become bored easily. and in severe cases their temperament may develop destructive behaviors. Dog parks, a big yard is ideal for their exercise needs.


In the Cane Corso vs Pitbull debate regarding exercise, Pitbulls have higher energy levels and require more physical activity compared to the Cane Corso.

The King Cane Corso wins this round.


 

Health: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Common Health Issues

Hip dysplasia, eye problems, bloat

Allergies, hip dysplasia, heart disease

Health Screenings

Hip and elbow evaluations, cardiac exams

Cardiac exams, allergy testing

Lifespan

9-12 years

12-16 years

Eating Habits

Larger appetite, more food

Moderate appetite

Poop Frequency

Less frequent but larger volume

Frequent

Cane Corso Health Issues

Cane Corsos are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia this can cost alot up to $7000. I would recommend regular veterinary check-ups along with a balanced Cane Corso diet to keep them healthy. Health screenings such as hip and elbow evaluations and cardiac exams are recommended for this breed. Better safe than sorry.


Pitbull Health Issues

Pitbulls are known to be healthy dogs but mostly suffer from allergies. A healthy meal, regular bath and providing exercise are key to keeping these dogs in good shape. But lets not forget that It's also important to have regular health screenings. Not because they hardly get ill means you should neglect them, they do need check up. A cardiac exam once every two years and yearly allergy testing is recommended.


Both Cane Corso and The Pitbull have specific conditions to watch for which are essential to maintain their health.

The Pitbull wins this round.


 

Grooming: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Grooming Needs

Low maintenance

Low maintenance, monitor for skin allergies

Coat Type

Short coat, sheds seasonally

Short, smooth coat

Additional Care

Ear cleaning, nail trimming

Regular ear cleaning, allergy care

Cane Corso Grooming

Cane Corsos have a short coat and requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing is needed as they shed seasonally, so extra brushing during those times will help manage shedding. This is not liked by most owners as their hairs tend to be in all sorts of home furniture which requires regular cleaning. Their ears needs cleaning as well, nail trimming, and occasional baths are also recommended.


Pitbull Grooming

The American Pit bull Terrier have a short, smooth coat that is low maintenance, at a glance they seem silky like a horse. This characteristic is why Dog enthusiasts often love this dog breed.

While brushing, check their skin for allergies, If any form of thickness or flaking is seen then this is an issue. Its best to learn how to treat dog skin allergy at home. We can use Zesty Paws Dog Allergy which is a great dog skin allergy cream. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and baths as needed are also part of their grooming routine.


In the Cane Corso vs. Pitbull grooming comparison, both breeds are relatively low maintenance, but Pitbulls may require extra attention due to potential skin allergies.

The King Cane Corso wins this round.


 

Best Living Conditions: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Best Environment

Large yard, space to roam

Adaptable, can do well in apartments

Social Needs

Needs experienced owner

Thrives on human interaction

Adaptability

Can adapt with sufficient exercise

Highly adaptable

Living with Cats

Requires more supervision

Generally adaptable with training

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are best suited for homes with large yards where they have space to roam and exercise. They can adapt to smaller living environments, such as apartments, but only if they receive adequate daily exercise, temperament training. They need good social stimulant, plays well with their kind but not so well with others. That is to say try not to get a cat.


Pitbull

The American Pit bull Terrier are more adaptable, as such apartments are fine to live in with as long as they receive enough exercise at the parks. Pitbulls thrive on human interaction and should not be left alone for long periods. They will wreck the place.


When it comes to Cane Corso vs Pitbull living conditions, Pitbulls are more adaptable, while Cane Corsos need more space and experienced handling.

The Pitbull wins this round.

 

Cost: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Puppy Cost

$1,500 - $3,500

$500 - $2,000

Veterinary Costs

Higher due to size ($1,000-$1,500/year)

Generally lower ($500-$700/year)

Insurance Considerations

Breed restrictions may apply

Breed restrictions may apply

Cane Corso

What do you think about Cane Corso vs Pitbull in terms of cost? Owning a Cane Corso can be quite expensive. The initial cost of a puppy ranges from $1,500 to $3,500. Check out my cane corso for sale post to learn more on cost and how to find cane corso for sale near me. In addition, their size means higher costs for food, and they may have more expensive veterinary bills, which can average around $1,000 to $1,500 per year for routine check-ups, vaccinations, and potential health screenings. Cane Corsos may also affect home insurance policies due to breed restrictions, your should try to seek pet insurance for cane corso still and it's important to consider these additional costs.


Pitbull

The American Pit bull Terrier are more affordable, with puppies costing between $500 and $2,000. Their smaller size means lower costs for food compared to larger breeds like the Cane Corso. However, they may also be subject to breed restrictions for home insurance, just as the Cane Corso. Pet insurance for Pitbull could add an additional $200 to $500 per year depending on the insurance provider.


In the Cane Corso vs Pitbull cost comparison, Cane Corsos are typically more expensive to own due to their size and breed-specific requirements.

The Pitbull wins this round.


 

Fight ability: Cane Corso vs Pitbull

Feature

Cane Corso

Pitbull

Strength

High, muscular build

Moderate, highly determined

Agility

Moderate

High

Guarding Instinct

Strong

Determined and agile

Cane Corso

If we held a match, Cane Corso vs Pitbull, who would win? An adult Cane Corsos are more aggressive than pit bulls, larger and more powerful than Pit bulls, giving them an advantage in terms of physical strength. They have a bite force of over 800 PSI. Their muscular build and size make them formidable, and they were originally bred for guarding and protection. A war dog to say the least. This strength is one of the reasons they are considered King of the dogs.


Pitbull

While smaller in size, the American Pit bull Terrier are known for their agility, Less powerful bite force and tenacity. They may not have the raw power of a Cane Corso, but they are highly determined and agile, which can be advantageous in a confrontation. Their history as working dogs has given them strong muscles and a high level of endurance.


In a Cane Corso vs Pitbull fight comparison, the Cane Corso has the advantage in strength and bite force, while the Pitbull has the advantage in agility and determination with a less powerful bite force.


 

Best For You?


  • Cane Corso: If you are looking for a loyal and protective companion that will guard your home and family, the Cane Corso might be the perfect choice. They are best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide consistent training, socialization, and have the space for a large dog.

  • Pitbull: If you want an affectionate, playful, and social pet that thrives on human interaction, then the American Pit bull Terrier could be the ideal match. They are perfect for active families who enjoy outdoor activities and are willing to invest time in their training and socialization.

In the Cane Corso vs Pitbull decision, it's important to consider your lifestyle, living space, and experience with dogs. Both breeds can make amazing pets, but they require different levels of commitment and care.



 

Conclusion

Both the Cane Corso and Pitbull are amazing breeds and excellent family pets, but the choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle, experience, and what you want in a dog as a pet parent. If you are looking for a powerful guardian, the Italian breeds Cane Corso might be the better choice. If you prefer a more sociable and energetic companion, then the single breed Pitbull could be the perfect fit.

Whichever breed you choose, remember to choose a proper sized dogs, practice responsible ownership, proper training, and love are key to a happy, healthy breed of dog pups.


Further Reading


FAQ


Are Cane Corsos a Good Family Dog?

Is a Cane Corso More Aggressive Than a Pitbull?

Can You Trust a Cane Corso?

Are Cane Corsos on the Aggressive Dog List?

Can Cane Corsos Turn on Their Owners?

What Are the Weaknesses of a Cane Corso?

Which Is the Most Ferocious Dog?

What Is the Strongest Dog in the World?

Why Do Cane Corsos Have a Bad Reputation?

What Happens if a Cane Corso Bites You?

Why Is My Cane Corso Getting Aggressive?


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