Dogo Argentino vs Cane Corso: Major Key Differences
Choosing the right canine companion is a big deal, especially if you are a family man. There is no need to suffer through hours of debating and still get nowhere. Our thorough examination of both breeds brings their differences to the front, making your choice easier.
It is worth noting that some of these differences may vary from one dog to the next, as each pet is unique.
To that end, here are the major differences between Dogo Argentinos and Cane Corsos:
History
Both dogs have a rich pedigree throughout history, but their paths couldn’t be more different. Dogo Argentinos, as the name implies, hails from Argentina, though they are now being bred worldwide.
They are an offshoot of the Cordoba (now extinct), bred in the 1900s solely to suppress the aggression of its predecessor. Century later, Dogo Argentinos are now widely used as guard dogs in households worldwide, despite only getting AKC recognition in 2020.
Cane Corsos on the other hand, have a more storied history, with origins in Greece, Rome, and Italy. Bred from the Molossus, Cane Corsos were intended for hunting and guarding, which they serve today.
With Origins in Italy, they are sometimes called Italian Mastiffs, as they are considered a native Italian breed. Sometime in the 1900s, Cane Corsos were nearly extinct with rural-urban migration but were restored by enthusiasts. They have since become a common feature worldwide, despite only being recently recognized by the AKC in 2010.
Appearance
Both breeds are considered intimidating and are some of the biggest dogs available, a requirement for guard dogs. They are both impressive specimens that can look similar at times, with one major difference, coat colors. Dogo Argentinos only appear in one color, white, but may have black spots, especially around the mouth.
Cane Corsos on the other hand, come in several colors, though black is the most common. They also look bulkier than Dogo Argentinos, though some can be smaller, especially females.
The main difference here is that Corsos can weigh as much as 69 kg, a testament to their bulkier nature. However, their heights are similar to that of Dogo Argentinos, as they can reach 70 cm.
Intelligence And Trainability
Dogs need to be intelligent and easy to train, especially when they are guard dogs, like Cane Corsos and Dogo Argentinos. A category where it is difficult to separate both dogs, as they both have similar responses to training and are highly intelligent.
Unfortunately, while they are both trainable, they can be stubborn and refuse to act in line with training. Luckily, they also respond to calm and gentle correction instead of aggression and scolding. The biggest difference is their submission tendencies, with Cane Corsos being the more submissive breed.
Temperament
Temperament is especially important, as selecting a guard dog, and there is somewhat distinction here. Dogo Argentinos are especially friendly, though they don’t give much effort.
With a mild-mannered nature, they make excellent family companions, especially since they are good with kids. However, you are advised to supervise them whenever they are with kids rather than leave them alone. In the end, they are still aggressive dogs and can attack the dogs in some situations.
Cane Corsos on the other hand, are friendly, but only per their training. Socialization must start early to breed friendliness and companionship, especially with children. It is also important to ensure that you or your family aren’t scared of your Cane Corso. They can sense fear and their temperament follows accordingly.
Lifespan
While maintenance is imperative to how long a dog lives, biology plays a key role. Size plays a crucial role in how long a dog lives and seemingly attracts several health problems.
Cane Corso and Dogo Argentinos are large dogs, so they have shorter lifespans than the average dog. Cane Corsos are the larger dogs here, and while the difference in size is minor, the age gap is still present. They live between 9-12 years, with gender and other external factors affecting the outcome.
Dogo Argentinos live similar ages but tend to live longer generally. The average one will live between 10-15 years, but many die around 12 years. They also happen to be relatively healthier than Cane Corsos.
Health Problems
Health problems are common with large dogs like Dogo Argentinos and Cane Corsos, regardless of how well you cater for them. Some health problems are genetic, but some of them may escape them. One of the major differences between Cane Corsos and Dogo Argentinos is that some of the latter suffer from hearing impairment.
While the odds aren’t threatening, a reported one in ten Dogo Argentino puppies suffers from it. Your best hope of dealing with this is to detect it early and take the affected dog to the vet. There may not be a cure, but the condition can be managed. As hearing is a key part of training and instructing dogs, anyone with a hearing impairment must be specially trained.
On the other hand, both species are prone to hip dysplasia, which is predominant in larger breeds. However, this condition is correctable, though surgery may sometimes be needed. Many of the dogs that suffer from this condition make a full recovery and return to normal.
Similarities Between a Cane Corso and a Dogo Argentino
While they may have many differences, both breeds also share many similarities. Their similarities make them hard to differentiate, especially for a newbie. The most common similarities between them are:
Grooming Requirements
Grooming tends to scare a lot of potential dog owners off, especially when the dog sheds are notably high maintenance. Both Dogo Argentinos and Cane Corsos are low maintenance, with minimal shedding.
Despite their low coats, you would still need to brush or comb their coats once in a few weeks. Cane Corsos have slightly thicker furs and may require more attention during grooming.
The biggest grooming-related concerns with both dogs are their nails. With both being large breeds, nails can break, especially once they get too long. Regular grooming requires both nail clippers and a soft brush. Grooming also includes bathing, which isn’t too frequent, with both dogs having little fur.
Physical Needs
Guard dogs especially need a lot of physical exercises, and so do Dogo Argentinos and Cane Corsos. The larger a dog, the more exercise it will need; with both dogs being large, they need a lot of exercise.
Provide each breed with at least 2 hours of physical activities and exercise, maybe more especially for Cane Corsos. Physical activities can include walks, hurdle courses, hiking, and puzzles.
To that end, you can have puzzle feeders and obstacle courses in your dog’s pen, so they stay busy in your absence. Exercising the mind is just as important as the body, so be sure to even things out daily.
Protective Instincts
As is common with all guard dogs, both Cane Corsos and Dogo Argentinos are very protective of their owners. Once they are well-trained and are socialized early, they are excellent additions to any family.
Cane Corsos are known for their loyalty, but where they are untrained, they proceed to dominate their owner. However, their devotion levels are unmatched once trained, making them excellent guard dogs.
On the other hand, they are most fiercely protective of their owners. Once a bond is formed with the owner, a Dogo would rather die than see its owner harmed.
This makes them a dangerous prospect, especially toward strangers. They are generally friendly, but you still need to proceed with caution.
Best Use Of Cane Corso
As the original breeders intended, Cane Corsos are best deployed as guard or hunting dogs. If you have a farm and are looking to guard it overnight, or you love going on hunting trips, the Cane Corsos are the ideal dog for you. Outside hunting and guard dog duties, give it enough exercise, so it is always ready for a chase.
Fun fact: Above all, Cane Corsos like being assigned a task or having a job to do. In the absence of something to do, they look to engage in busy work to avoid being idle. In the absence of work, you can engage in sports to help keep it busy.
Best Use Of Dogo Argentino
Dogo Argentinos are popularly employed as Guard dogs, but their true passion is hunting. They are physically primed and love to chase things, which makes them the ideal hunting dog.
Dogo Argentinos are courageous and don’t mind taking on other animals that are larger than them, making them perfect for big game hunting. These traits are also handy for guard dogs, so with the right training, your Dogo Argentino can serve as an effective watchdog.
They can also serve as training dogs depending on their training level and proficiency.
Interestingly, their athletic gifts, aggression and love for the chase make them ideal for police work. Many Dogo Argentines are currently employed in that role worldwide.
Which Is Best For You?
Selecting the best dog all comes down to your preferences in the end. If you want a simple guard dog to watch over your home or farm, then the Cane Corso is ideal for you.
On the other hand, Dogo Argentino’s are the perfect companion for hunting or other outdoor activities.
Ironically, despite how fierce and aggressive they usually are, Cane Corsos are also great at sensing your mood. While it isn’t their primary function, they can serve as companion dogs effectively, especially when trained. Dogo Argentinos are also similarly affectionate, making them excellent companions.
Ultimately, it comes down to one simple choice, a hunter or a bodyguard. Whichever you prefer will guide you to choosing the perfect dog.
Conclusion: Dogo Argentino vs Cane Corso
Dogo Argentinos and Cane Corsos are two largely similar breeds that are sometimes difficult to separate. Despite all their similarities, there are a couple of key differences that set them apart, especially to the trained eye.
Luckily, we cover these differences, making it easier for a beginner to choose between a Cane Corso and a Dogo Argentino.
