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With an intimidating appearance and an extremely loyal nature, the Cane Corso is one of the most notable guard and family dogs. But if you’re convinced that you want a Cane Corso, you still have an important decision to make: whether you want a male or a female.
But what’s the difference between the two genders, and how do you know which sex may be better for you and your family? We break down everything that you need to know to make the best possible decision.
Visual Differences
At a Glance
- Average height (adult): 25–27½ inches
- Average weight (adult): 100–110 pounds
- Average height (adult): 23½–26 inches
- Average weight (adult): 90–100 pounds
Cane Corso Pet Breed 101
If you’re looking for a super protective pup, look no further than the Cane Corso. Translated from Latin, the name literally translates to “bodyguard dog.” Their temperament certainly matches!
They’re fearless dogs that are extremely intelligent and trainable, but they’re not for the faint of heart. Not only are they massive at around 100 pounds, but they’re also almost entirely muscle and give off an intimidating appearance.
They’re incredibly loyal and loving to their owners, and as with any dog breed, require early socialization and consistent obedience training, using positive reinforcement and a reward system. They’re one of the most protective and loyal dogs out there. They have the physical ability to keep you safe and the regal, confident, and intimidating appearance to keep intruders at bay.
Romans used them as bodyguard dogs, and for the last 2,000 years, humans have perfected that temperament in them.
Male Cane Corso Overview
Personality / Character
In the dog world, males tend to be stronger and heavier, although that doesn’t necessarily make them better guard dogs. They are fearless dogs and it’s important to start training them from an early age. They are affectionate and very attached to their family.
Training
While training a male Cane Corso isn’t the hardest task in the world, especially for an experienced dog owner, as Cane Corso are eager to please, the focus should always be on positive reinforcement and socialization from an early age. They are generally considered fairly easy to train as a breed, as long as it’s started from puppyhood and pursued consistently, with dedication and patience. Never shout at your dog or use any forms of punishment, as this is counterproductive and will permanently damage your bond.
Although they may seem intimidating due to their size, Cane Corso are generally quite gentle and real family dogs. If socialized adequately, they are generally considered to be fairly good with other pets and children, but it should always be done under supervision.
Health & Care
While there aren’t a ton of health differences between a male and female Cane, that doesn’t mean they’re identical, mainly due to the particularities of their anatomy. In male dogs, there are several specific conditions that may affect their reproductive organs, such as the testicles and prostate.
Neutering, when performed at an adequate age, reduces the risk of certain health conditions, so a trip to the vet is crucial. There, you can discuss the pros and cons of neutering, as well as the best time to get it done, based on your dog’s size, age and temperament.
Breeding
When it comes to breeding Cane Corso dogs, or really any breed of dog, it’s crucial to leave this task to an experienced and reputable breeder who approaches this responsibly and with the animals’ health and welfare as top priority. This means they perform genetic and health testing on all of their animals, as well as considering their temperament, and consult with their vet well before proceeding with the breeding.
The process of breeding and later on delivering and raising puppies certainly differs between male and female dogs, with owners of females having much more responsibility. However, by neutering your dogs, this can be prevented, unless breeding dogs is your intent.
- Large size creates a more intimidating guard dog
- Different and less time consuming responsibilities regarding reproduction for the breeder, especially in case of a neutered male
- No risk of unwanted pregnancy
- Bigger weight may be undesirable for some dog owners
- Large size creates a more intimidating family dog
Female Cane Corso Overview
Personality / Character
Female Cane Corsos are also fairly active dogs, eager to please their owners and make a great guard family dog, just like males.
Training
There is no real rule for whether females are easier to train than males, as this will depend on many factors, including individual dog’s temperament and early socialization.
Keep in mind that you still need to socialize them early and often while keeping up with daily training. While they’re easier to handle than a male Cane Corso due to their smaller weight, it’s still a big responsibility teaching your dog how to be a confident, obedient and gentle adult. Use positive reinforcement and never punish your dog or shout at them.
Health & Care
If your vet spays your female Cane Corso when they reach adequate size and mature physically and emotionally, their potential health concerns later on in life will not significantly differ from their male counterparts. However, if they don’t get spayed, there are several health conditions they will be at risk of, such as pyometra, a life threatening infection of the uterus, and mammary cancer.
Regardless of having a male or female, it’s important to consult with a vet from an early age so they can start with preventative healthcare such as vaccinations, deworming and flea treatment. Speak to your vet about the possible health conditions your Cane Corso may be more prone to developing, as well as the best time to get your puppy spayed or neutered.
Breeding
Female dogs of large breeds enter heat once or twice per year after they reach sexual maturity, and they can have litters that generally range from one to six puppies. Breeding dogs is an immense responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Also, not all dogs are fit for breeding, either due to their parentage line in case of inbreeding or inherited health issues, or due to the individual dog’s age, size, health, and temperament.
- Smaller weight may be an advantage to most dog owners
- Risk of unwanted pregnancy in unspayed females
- Related Read: Cane Corso vs Rottweiler: Which to Choose?
Which One Is Right for You?
In the end, the decision between a male and a female Cane Corso comes down to your personal choice. Both males and females have a gentle and loyal nature and are reasonably easy to train for an experienced and dedicated owner. Ultimately, there’s no wrong choice between a male and female Cane Corso. It comes down to you and which puppy steals your heart.
Just ensure that you have the time, patience, and dedication to care for your dog before you head out and purchase one. Owning dogs is a big responsibility that changes a person’s life for the better, and continues for the rest of their life.
You might also be interested in:
- 150+ Cane Corso Names: Male, Female, & Italian Ideas with Meanings
- Bullmastiff vs Cane Corso: Key Differences (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: GALINA TARASENKO, Shutterstock (top); Stivog, Shutterstock (bottom)
