Cane Corso is one of the oldest dog-living breeds in the world. It is a large, powerful, and loyal breed with a thick coat of fur.
They were bred at the time of the ancient Roman Empire to guard and protect property, as well as to hunt, and oftentimes, they were also brought to the battlefield to fight alongside soldiers.
So, what dog breeds are similar to Cane Corso?
Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler, Boxer, Dogo Argentino, Dogue De Bordeaux, Boerboel, Bully Kutta, Fila Brasileiro, American Bulldog, Presa de Canario Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Great Dane, they all share some similar characteristics with Cane Corso.
Is this something that interests you? If so, in this article, we’ll break down the key differences between these breeds to help you make a more informed decision when choosing a breed similar to Cane Corso.
Let’s begin!
Cane Corso Similar Breeds: An Overview
The Cane Corso shares similarities with other powerful and protective breeds such as the Bullmastiff, Presa Canario, and Dogo Argentino.
These breeds are known for their loyalty, strength, and natural guarding instincts, making them ideal choices for experienced dog owners looking for a devoted companion with a strong protective instinct.
Anyway, let’s take a look at the key differences between these breeds.
13 Dog Breeds Similar to Cane Corso
To help you get the most out of this article, we’ve created a table that summarizes all the key differences between the 13 dog breeds similar to the Cane Corso in a nutshell:
| Breed | Energy Level | Exercise Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Neapolitan Mastiff | Low | 20-30 minutes daily exercise |
| Rottweiler | High | 1-2 hours of daily exercise |
| Boxer | High | 1-2 hours of daily exercise |
| Dogo Argentino | High | 60 minutes of daily exercise |
| Dogue De Bordeaux | Moderate | 30-45 minutes of daily exercise |
| Boerboel | Medium | 30-45 minutes of daily exercise |
| Bully Kutta | High | 60-90 minutes of daily exercise |
| Fila Brasileiro | High | 60-90 minutes of daily exercise |
| American Bulldog | Medium | 30-45 minutes of daily exercise |
| Presa de Canario | High | 60-90 minutes of daily exercise |
| American Staffordshire Terrier | High | 60-90 minutes of daily exercise |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | High | 45-60 minutes of daily exercise |
| Great Dane | Moderate | 30-45 minutes of daily exercise |
1. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large and powerful breed known to produce a lot of drool. They are muscular and have short but super soft fur, making them easier to groom.
This dog is known for its protective nature, thanks to its thick coat of fur that helps to ward off predators. It has a loyal, calm, and devoted temperament but may be aggressive toward strangers or other animals if it feels threatened.
Why are the Neapolitan Mastiff and Cane Corso similar?
The Neapolitan Mastiff and Cane Corso are similar because they both originate from Italy and are both large, muscular breeds of dogs.
They were both originally bred for working purposes, such as guarding livestock and property. Also, both breeds are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them popular choices for families looking for a dependable and devoted companion.
However, there are also some differences between these two breeds, such as coat color and texture, as well as size and weight. In fact, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a bit larger than the Cane Corso and has a thicker coat of fur.
2. Rottweiler
The second on our list is the Rottweiler. This breed is known to be powerful yet gentle, and they are often used as family pets or guard dogs.
Their coats are short and coarse, although some have longer fur on their chest and legs. The Rottweiler is a large and muscular dog, making them perfect for protection work as well as companionship.
Why are the Rottweiler and Cane Corso similar?
The Rottweiler and Cane Corso are similar in several ways. Both breeds are large, muscular dogs that were originally bred for working purposes. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, which makes them excellent guard dogs and family pets.
Both breeds also have a strong prey drive and require early socialization and training to ensure they are well-behaved and obedient.
In terms of appearance, both breeds have short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. They are also similar in size, with the Rottweiler typically weighing between 80-135 pounds and the Cane Corso weighing between 88-120 pounds.
3. Boxer
Boxer is another popular breed of dog that is similar to the Cane Corso. It was bred in Germany in the late 19th century as butcher’s helpers and guard dogs.
Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation.
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Why are the Boxer and Cane Corso similar?
The Boxer and Cane Corso are similar in some ways because they are both large, muscular breeds that were originally bred for working purposes.
Both breeds are known for their loyalty and protective nature towards their families, and they can be quite affectionate with their owners.
However, there are also some differences between the two breeds, such as their appearance, temperament, and energy levels. For example, the Boxer is known for being more playful and energetic, while the Cane Corso is typically more calm and reserved.
4. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a large, muscular breed of dog that was originally developed in Argentina for big-game hunting. They are known for their strength, loyalty, and protective nature towards their families.
The breed is also highly intelligent and trainable, making them popular among law enforcement and military units.
Historically, the Dogo Argentino was developed in the 1920s by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez, who wanted to create a breed of dog that was capable of hunting large game, such as wild boar and puma.
He crossbred several different breeds, including the Cordoba Fighting Dog, Pointer, Great Dane, and Boxer, to create the Dogo Argentino.
Why are the Dogo Argentino and Cane Corso similar?
They share some similarities in some ways because they are both large, muscular breeds that were originally bred for working purposes. The Dogo Argentino is known for its strength and protective nature, while the Cane Corso is known for its loyalty and obedience.
They are also similar in size and weight, with both breeds typically weighing between 88-120 pounds. Both breeds have short, dense coats that require minimal grooming.
5. Dogue De Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large and muscular breed that originated in France. They are known for their massive head, loose skin, and deep wrinkles, which give them a distinctive and imposing appearance.
Why are the Dogue De Bordeaux and Cane Corso similar?
While the Dogue de Bordeaux and Cane Corso are two distinct breeds with their own unique characteristics, there are some similarities between the two.
Both breeds are large and muscular, with a powerful and athletic build. They were originally bred for working purposes, such as hunting and guarding. What’s more, both breeds have short, dense coats that require minimal grooming.
7. Bully Kutta
The Bully Kutta originates from the Indian subcontinent and is an agile and strong breed. The fact that they were bred primarily as a guardian and working dogs gives them a huge-looking and powerful appearance, don’t you think so?
They are also known to be intelligent and highly trainable, but they require early socialization and training to prevent any aggression toward other animals or people.
Why are the Bully Kutta and Cane Corso similar?
While they are not strictly related to Cane Corso like other breeds, such as the Neapolitan Mastiff, this dog still shares some traits that make it a very similar breed. The most remarkable at a glance is their muscular build and short, smooth coat.
8. Fila Brasileiro
Let’s continue with the next dog breed similar to Cane Corso. The Fila Brasileiro is a relatively old breed of dog with a history that dates back several centuries.
The breed is believed to have been developed in Brazil during the 16th century when Portuguese settlers brought various European dog breeds with them to the country. These dogs were then crossed with native Brazilian breeds to create the Fila Brasileiro.
Why are the Fila Brasileiro and Cane Corso similar?
The Fila Brasileiro and Cane Corso are similar in a few ways. Both breeds are large and powerful working dogs that were originally bred for guarding and hunting purposes. They also share some physical characteristics, such as a broad head and muscular build.
That said, there are also some notable differences between the two breeds. Due to its overly protective nature, the Fila Brasileiro has been banned in many countries, whereas the Cane Corso is recognized for its trainability and obedience.
9. American Bulldog
American Bulldogs are a breed similar to the Cane Corso in size, strength, and temperament. Known for their muscular build and confident stance, these dogs make great protectors and family companions.
Their loyalty and dedication to their owners make them a suitable choice for those seeking a powerful guard dog. We appreciate their resilience and intelligent nature, making them adaptable to a variety of environments.
Why are the American Bulldog and Cane Corso similar?
Despite the difference in size, they are both known for their strength, loyalty, and protective instincts, and they have similar physical characteristics, such as a broad head and a powerful jaw.
10. Presa de Canario
Also known as the Perro de Presa Canario, these muscular and tenacious dogs have a strong resemblance to the Cane Corso. Originating from the Canary Islands, they were initially bred for working with livestock.
Presa de Canarios are known for their strong bond with their owners and their willingness to defend their homes. They require consistent training and socialization due to their powerful and dominant nature.
Read also: Cane Corso vs. Presa Canario: Ultimate Guide ([year])
Why are the Presa de Canario and Cane Corso similar?
They share some physical characteristics, such as a broad head, muscular build, and a strong jaw.
11. American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terriers share several traits with the Cane Corso, such as their muscular build, affectionate temperament, and guarding instincts.
As a breed, they are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent family companions. Their outgoing and sociable personalities often make them great therapy and service dogs, as they connect well with people of all ages.
Why are the American Staffordshire Terrier and Cane Corso similar?
The American Staffordshire Terrier and Cane Corso share several similarities that make them stand out among other dog breeds.
For example, the head, as well as the body shape and size, are almost identical. Of course, unless you’re an experienced dog expert, it is often difficult to recognize the difference between these two breeds, especially when they are still puppies.
12. Great Dane
Last but not least, The Great Dane! They’ve given their name to the lofty title of ‘Gentle Giant’ and are an impressive breed that shares several physical traits with the Cane Corso.
They are indeed huge! Great Danes can weigh up to 200 pounds and stand at an impressive height of 32 inches. Despite their intimidating size, they are usually very friendly and gentle with people.
Why are the Great Dane and Cane Corso similar?
From a distance, you might mistake a Great Dane for a Cane Corso. They have similar body shapes, sizes, and facial features.
The Great Dane may be larger than the Cane Corso, but they share many attributes, such as their noble and confident demeanor. Known as ‘gentle giants,’ Great Danes are friendly and affectionate dogs perfect for families.
Though originally bred for hunting and guarding, their gentle and patient nature allows them to adapt well to various environments, making them a popular choice for pet owners seeking a large and loyal companion.
13. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, also known as Staffie, is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originated in England.
They were originally bred for bull-baiting and dog fighting, but today they are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them popular family pets.
They are muscular and athletic dogs with a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, fawn, red, and brindle.
Why are the American Staffordshire Terrier and Cane Corso similar?
The last on our list is the American Staffordshire Terrier. While both of these breeds differ in many aspects, there are still a couple of traits that make them similar.
The most notable similarity between these two breeds is the shape of the head as well as the somatic traits of the face; other than this, the two breeds can be easily distinguished.
Protective and guardian nature of breeds
When exploring the protective nature of certain dog breeds, it’s important to understand that their loyalty and natural instincts to guard and defend are key traits.
A well-trained protective dog can serve as a reliable line of defense for their owner and family. Many of these breeds have been bred for generations as dependable working dogs, bodyguard dogs, and watchdogs with unmatched loyalty and courage.
Guard Dogs as family pets
Despite their formidable appearances and protective instincts, many of these breeds make exceptional family pets.
When properly trained and socialized, they can display impressive restraint and exhibit gentleness around family members.
As natural watchdogs, they are constantly aware of their surroundings and ready to alert their family to any potential threats.
Note: Integrating a protective, loyal breed into a family can bring increased safety and peace of mind. However, it’s crucial that owners understand the breed’s needs and invest time in proper training and socialization to ensure harmonious living.
In summary, breeds like the Cane Corso and others with strong protective instincts can provide both unwavering protection and companionship as family pets.
With the right foundations in training and care, these breeds can be loyal, dedicated, and loving family members.
Physical traits and features
The physical traits and features of the Cane Corso are highly sought after by breeders and owners alike.
Understanding the Size and Height
When it comes to dog breeds similar to the Cane Corso, we can observe that most of them have comparable size and height.
In fact, the most distinguishable trait is the muscular body with distinctive features such as a broad head, short muzzle, almond-shaped eyes, and ears that stand erect.
Their coat is short but dense and usually comes in black, brindle, or gray colors. The tail is typically docked to a medium.
These breeds generally range from medium to large, with weights varying between 60 to 120 pounds and standing 22 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
Read also: How much do cane corsos shed? (Tips for New Owners)
Coat and shedding Traits
When it comes to coat type, many of these breeds have short coats, which provide them with a sleek and clean appearance.
This also means that they generally have low to moderate shedding levels, making them easier to maintain and groom. Some common coat traits among these breeds include:
- Smooth and short coats. These dogs have a sleek appearance and are low-shedding, requiring minimal grooming.
- Short and dense coats. This type of coat offers protection from different weather conditions but may require more frequent grooming to reduce shedding.
- Short, rough coats. These dogs usually have a slightly coarser and thicker coat, which can also be low-shedding but may require a little more attention while grooming.
The various dog breeds similar to the Cane Corso exhibit physical traits and features that include a range of size and height, strong muscularity, and different coat types.
These attributes make them distinct and well-suited for a variety of activities and tasks, such as protection and companionship.
Energy levels and exercise needs
So, if you’ve read the article so far, one of the things you may have noticed is that many of the breeds similar to the Cane Corso have high energy levels and require plenty of exercise.
These active dogs need more than just a daily walk around the block; they’re always on the go and need an outlet for their physical energy as well as mental stimulation.
This can include playing games like fetch and Frisbee, agility and obedience training, or even activities like jogging and swimming.
Comparison of temperaments
Many of these breeds are known for their confidence and independent nature. They often exhibit calm and docile behavior, making them great companions for families and experienced dog owners alike.
We may observe their gentle nature when interacting with their human families and other animals.
However, it is also essential to be aware that some of these breeds can be wary of strangers and may perceive them as a threat. With proper socialization and training, we can mitigate this tendency and help our dogs become well-rounded members of our families.
It’s important to note that while these breeds may share similarities in their temperaments, there will always be individual variations. Factors such as genetics, upbringing, and environment can influence a dog’s behavior and temperament.
Lifespan and care
When it comes to dog breeds similar to the Cane Corso, the average life expectancy ranges from 8-12 years.
As with any breed, life expectancy depends on various factors, such as environment, genetics, and health management. It’s crucial for us to understand that each breed has specific needs, and providing the appropriate care can contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Care
In order for our dogs to thrive and maintain good health, it’s essential to provide proper care. Some aspects of care for these breeds include:
- Regular vet checkups. Scheduling annual vet visits helps monitor and address any health concerns before they become severe.
- Vaccinations and parasite prevention. Ensuring dogs are up-to-date on vaccinations and on a preventative schedule for common parasites (fleas, ticks, and worms) can significantly impact their overall health.
- A balanced diet. Feeding high-quality, age-appropriate dog food can contribute to maintaining an ideal body condition and overall health.
- Exercise and mental stimulation. Providing daily physical and mental exercise helps prevent obesity, maintain joint health, and contribute to overall well-being.
- Proper grooming. Regular grooming – brushing, bathing, and trimming nails – can prevent issues related to skin and coat health.
Breed purpose and roles
We can identify several key purposes and roles that these breeds have traditionally fulfilled throughout history:
- Hunting. Many of these breeds were originally bred for their hunting abilities, especially for large game. As skilled hunters, these dogs aided their human counterparts in tracking and bringing down prey, such as deer and wild boar.
- Fighting. In some cases, these mastiff-type dogs were also utilized in fighting, either for sport or to protect their owners. Their strength, agility, and tenacity made them formidable opponents in such situations.
- Livestock and Herding. As working dogs, many of these breeds played vital roles in agricultural communities, assisting farmers by herding and guarding livestock from predators. Their instincts and trainability made them well-suited for these tasks.
- Property Protection. Given their size, strength, and loyalty, these breeds have been historically used to protect property, including homes and estates. Many of these breeds still serve in this capacity today, demonstrating their effectiveness as protectors.
Summary
Before we move on to the conclusion, we’ve summarized this article into a short list of key points for you to remember:
- These breeds are all large and muscular, with short, dense coats that require minimal grooming.
- They were all originally bred for working purposes, such as hunting, guarding, and protecting livestock or property.
- While there are similarities between these breeds, there are also differences in appearance, temperament, and energy levels.
- The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smaller breed but shares some similarities with the Cane Corso, such as a muscular build and affectionate temperament.
To sum up
To sum up, these 13 dog breeds similar to Cane Corso, are highly capable, loyal companions. While some of these breeds are not strictly related to the Cane Corso, they share some traits; we’ve learned the most notable one that they all have in common is the head shape and the muscular body.
We hope this article has provided you with a clear understanding of the similarities between Cane Corso and other similar dog breeds, as well as some insights into their core purposes and roles.
Have a great day!
Want to learn more about Cane Corso?
Ready to boost your knowledge to the next level? If so, check out the articles below:
- Are Cane Corso Good Apartment Dogs? An Owner Explains
- Why Are Some Cane Corsos Smaller Than Others? (Quick Facts)
- What Size Dog Crate for a Cane Corso? Expert Recommendations
