Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull
There is no doubt a dog has always been a source of happiness for most humans. However, when choosing between the Cane Corso and The American Pitbull Terrier, you need to be more considerate.
Cane Corso is a majestic dog with a ferocious look. Although it has a friendly nature, its intense glare and hostile attitude towards strangers make it different from other Mastiff breeds. The American Pitbull, on the other hand, enjoys being in the spotlight. It is an energetic canine that loves socializing and hangouts.
But which one should you choose: Cane Corso or American Pitbull?
At a glance, Cane Corso and American Pitbull are strikingly similar. The two domestic dogs have the same ancestral roots but have evolved from different dog breeds. Both dogs are affectionate and share almost a similar energy level. However, Cane Corso is cynical towards outsiders and needs to be handled firmly. Whereas the American Pitbull is quite playful and loves making new friends.
This in-depth Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull analysis will give you a fair idea about two of the most loyal domestic dogs. From discussing their origin to the type of food they eat for breakfast, we will drop in on every aspect of their life. We will help you pick a pet that corresponds with your personality.
Origin: Are The Two Dogs Related?
Before we begin exploring the dogs’ size, strength, and other aspects, let’s have a quick look at their lineage. There is a deception that both the furry fellow have the same ancestors. It’s only partly true. Cane Corso and Pitbull belong to the Molosser dog family, but they are worlds apart!
Cane Corso:
Cane Corso is a popular Italian Mastiff from the Molosser breed with a history dating back centuries.
Molosser comes from the ancient Greek tribe Molossia, which used to breed large, powerful dogs. These loyal fierce dogs served in wars and hunting. They could protect livestock from wild animals. They also assisted in herding cattle and sheep, making them the perfect farm dogs of the century!
Later on, when the Romans invaded Greece, the dogs were transferred to Italy, where they were bred with Italian breeds. The crossbreeding resulted in Cane Corso dogs that were brave and frightening. Romans used these scary hounds in wars and gladiator games. After the fall of the Roman Empire, their services were limited to protecting farms and livestock only. The Cane Corso species became almost extinct during that time. However, in the 1980s, the number of Cane Corso dogs increased through selective breeding.
The word Cane Corso came from Latin, where Cane meant “dog,” and Corso refers to a guardian. The first Cane Corso entered America in 1988 and became the region’s most famous and highly loved domestic dog. The American Kennel Club (AKC) accepted Cane Corso in 2010, and they became the 21nd most popular dog in America in 2021.
American Pitbull
The American Pitbull originated in the United States, but its ancestors have roots in England and Ireland. During the 19th century, bear and bull baiting were a favorite sport. To make the fighting even more appalling and vicious, people breed the Old English Bulldogs with Terriers. The interbreeding of these two species gave birth to the American Pitbull Terrier, a powerful fighting dog that is fierce.
In 1835, bull baiting was banned, and rat baiting became the next source of entertainment. Rat baiting was played in a pit, helping these dogs earn the title of Pitbulls.
Today, the term Pitbull is more of an umbrella term used to refer to other Pitbull-type breeds, including American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pitbull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, and American Bulldog.
Unlike Cane Corso, the American Pitbull has a shady image as it was used for fighting and killing right from the start. However, train it with love and affection, and it will become your most loyal friend. They are lively and also very smart. To make it the best household pet, socialize them early and ensure you get a Pitbull from a reputable breeder.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: Appearance
Look at the Cane Corso and then catch a quick glimpse of the American Pitbull; you will see a resemblance. But if you have those sharp, keen eyes, you will observe all the tiny details underneath all these similarities.
Cane Corso and Pitbull have three common characteristics; a muscular build, a perfectly square head, and powerful jaws. However, Cane Corso is much larger and heavier than the medium-sized American Pitbull. Cane Corso has a thicker, denser coat with rough, stiff furs.
Cane Corso also has a wider muzzle, wrinkled face, large head, and long natural ears with a prominent jawline, thus giving it a fierce, angry look.
On the contrary, the American Pitbull is much leaner and has tighter skin. Although its coat is short and shiny like the Cane Corso, they are much smoother and softer to touch. They have round eyes and small ears.
Cane Corso and Pitbull also have similar colors and double-layer coats. The double-layer coat is moisture-resistant and protects them from pests, injury, and changing environments.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: Size And Weight
Cane Corso and Pitbull have a muscular stature, but when compared to one another in size, there is a visible difference between the two dogs.
Cane Corso is much bigger and larger in height than the American Pitbull, measuring about 23 to 27 inches in height. In comparison, the Pitbull is a medium-sized dog that measures about 17 to 21 inches in height.
Considering the height of the two domestic dogs, Cane Corso is sure to be heavier and bulkier. Cane Corso weighs around 85 to 120 pounds, whereas Pitbull is lighter, weighing around 30 to 85 pounds, but making it heavier for its size.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: The Bite Force
It’s always in your best interest to stay out of your dog’s biting range. But when there is a Cane Corso in the house, it’s even more important to consider the massive jawline of this mighty beast! Cane Corso has a biting force of 700 Psi which is several times greater than the human biting force of 162 Psi. Whereas the American Pitbull has an average biting force of 235 Psi.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: Temperament
Cane Corso and Pitbull are energetic, strong-willed, and intelligent. They are also obedient, playful, and friendly with their human owners. Once you develop a closer bond with these dogs, they will protect you with their heart and soul!
Compared to Cane Corso, the American Pitbull is very sociable, whether a friend or a foe. They have an affectionate nature making training an easy process. But since they love making new friends and relations, they are prone to suffer from separation anxiety. If you are planning to bring a Pitbull under your roof, prepare to keep the animal busy by using brain games, puzzles, and toys.
By contrast, Cane Corso has a dominant personality. He has that calm, defensive posture that is reserved for suspicious strangers. But otherwise, they are always in for action and highly protective of their immediate family. Due to their inflexible and grim attitude, they need to be trained early.
They need an experienced owner that knows how to train the dog. Proper training by a commanding leader can transform the aggressive Cane Corso into a well-mannered and welcoming pet.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: Exercises
Cane Corso and Pitbull are high-energy dogs that need one to two hours of exercise daily. Both dogs are bursting with energy and need to indulge in high-intensity activities to avoid boredom.
Besides planning brisk walks and occasional jogs, you must organize interactive exercise sessions for Cane Corso and American Pitbull. Challenging games, fetching sessions, swimming, and agility courses are excellent ways to keep the dog occupied throughout the week.
Workouts and drills are aimed at keeping the dog engaged. Without proper exercise, they are bound to become aggressive and ill-tempered. So, instead of underestimating the workout needs of Cane Corso and Pitbull, be prepared to stay active and robust around these two dogs.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: Nutritional Needs
Food is where Cane Corso and Pitbull are in complete agreement! Keeping in mind their muscular body and high energy levels, both dogs require a meal high in protein. Cane Corso will want three cups of food daily, whereas the American Pitbull should be given 2 ½ cups of kibble to stay active.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: Coat Colors
A black Cane Corso no doubt looks sinister, but the dog also has other exciting coat colors, including gray, red, chestnut, black brindle, and fawn. As for the Pitbull, you can have red, brindle, black, white, blue, gray, and brown color coats.
The coats of both dogs are short, shiny, and easy to groom. Brushing their short hair once a week is enough, but during the shedding season, daily brushing is a must to keep them in good condition.
Depending on the situation, Cane Corso and Pitbull must be bathed once every two months. However, do remember that Pitbull has sensitive skin; therefore, you must buy special skin-cleaning products to keep your pet healthy.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: Life Expectancy
Larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans. So, don’t expect these two breeds to live more than ten years. Cane Corso has an average lifespan of 9 – 12 years, whereas the American Pitbull lives slightly longer than its older sibling. It has an average lifespan of about 12 – 16 years.
Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull: Price
Cane Corso is rare. A breeder needs time, resources, and effort to produce a healthy litter of Cane Corso. And so, a reputable breeder will demand a handsome amount for a Cane Corso pup. The cost of a Cane Corso ranges between $1000 – $2500.
The Pitbull is comparatively cheaper than the big masculine Cane Corso. The average cost of a Pitbull is somewhere between $800- $1100.
Which Dog Should You Choose: Cane Corso Vs. Pitbull
Irrespective of their vicious background, the two dog breeds are considered the best family dogs when raised properly. Cane Corso is particularly larger and more muscular. They need more space to move around and to be governed by a headstrong person who knows how to keep them under control.
When appropriately trained, they will protect all the family members. And finally, exceptional intellect is something you will admire in these breeds. They can sense their owner’s moods and will react accordingly.
And then we have Pitbull, who won’t mind playing all day long. They are different from Cane Corso and have a playful soul underneath that tough-looking body. Consider your choices, the environment in your home, and of course, your budget.
