With over 204 dog breeds that are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), some people are drawn to none but the Cane Corso. Meanwhile, a good number would detract from the idea of having a recognized breed and would rather have an American Bully.
If you’re one of those who are heavily torn between the two, this is the comparison guide you’ve been looking for. Obviously, both dogs need different masters and it’s important that you assess which of the two can adjust more to your lifestyle.
Breed Origins
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is roughly translated from Latin as “guard of the courtyard”, but even before that, this is a massive dog that would fight alongside his battalion. He’s one of the remarkable descendants of the great Roman war dogs, but his prominence as a warrior faded.
Once the Roman Empire fell to the ground, the Cane Corso switched to becoming an aid in the farm. He was in charge of keeping the cattle safe by warding off predators. Other owners would place a few dogs of this breed on a property for security.
When the farming practices shifted during the 19th and 20th centuries, the breed almost vanished. The decline in numbers was hastened by the two world wars. The course of its extinction changed when Dr. Paolo Breber, Giovanni Bonnetti, and Stefano Gandolfi made efforts to bring back the Corso.
American Bully
Often, people would assume that the American Bully is a Pitbull, but one thing we have to know is that both are distinct from each other. This American dog falls under a Pitbull umbrella which has four types hence why he looks similar to the Pitbull and is often deemed a natural extension.
As believed by many, the Olde English Bulldog, English Bulldog, and American Bulldog all have major contributions to his creation. In 2013, the United Kennel Club recognized him as a breed in his own right.
Oftentimes, the American Bully is subject to Breed Specific Legislation (BSL), but this impression is often created out of subjective assumptions. The American Bully, along with several others, is slowly building back up his tarnished reputation.
Size, Appearance, & Coloring
Cane Corso
Two natural-looking gray Cane Corsos.
As an inborn guardian, the Cane Corso does possess a stern demeanor that’s even more fueled by his cropped ears and docked tails. Owners do this so people would have a hard time understanding the dog’s mood. These practices give the Cane Corso a more threatening look that demands respect.
It’s one big and hardy dog as he can be 23.5-27.5 inches tall and 120 pounds heavy. His head rests on his broad chest where some have white markings present on it.
The dog’s coat is short, dense, and stiff with a light undercoat. The common shades he has are gray and fawn with irregular streaks of light and dark colors or exhibit a brindle pattern.
American Bully
An American Bully showcasing his eminently large head.
Despite the proportions stating that the American Bully is only 30-65 pounds and 13-20 inches tall, therefore, putting him in the category of medium dogs, it remains a fact that he’s big and sturdy– one that you can’t mess around with.
To be able to differentiate the American Bully from the Pitbull, you can compare certain characteristics. First, he’s got a larger head, shorter legs, more well-defined and muscular, and wider in build. Meanwhile, he virtually comes in a variety of colors such as fawn, striped, and brindle.
Temperament
Cane Corso
You won’t feel any safer than with a Cane Corso. One of his traits includes being immensely protective of his family. Due to his territorial instinct, proper training needs to be included while he’s still a puppy.
Surprisingly for some, the intimidating appearance of this dog contradicts his affectionate nature. The Corso is seen as one of the most loving and gentle, but of course, socialization plays a major role in his temperament. He may exude dominance, but he remains high on teachability as he’s smart.
American Bully
Although people think that the American Bully is no good around people, this dog is, in fact, people-oriented. He needs to be engaged in activities to keep him from feeling anxious and destructive.
With proper upbringing, he’ll grow fond of your children which is why some would call him a “nanny dog”. He’s gentle and caring yet, as it is with other dogs, you can’t leave him alone with your kids. Nonetheless, he’s one extremely loyal canine that’s always in tune with his owner’s emotions.
Exercise Needs
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso breed is fairly high on energy levels, but that doesn’t mean you can let him romp around with no limitations. Due to his heaviness, it’s not good for him to jump from high places. It’s impractical to let him be a couch potato as well.
The dog can benefit a lot from long walks and free play. Give him his own secure space for little games like fetch and tug-of-war. His exercise ideally has to last 2 hours a day in smaller sessions.
American Bully
A good 60-minute activity per day is required to keep your American Bully healthy and happy. Do this early morning and in the late afternoon before the sun gets harsh on his skin.
With the right motivation, this dog will even be more encouraged to learn new tricks and lessons. You can invest in dog toys that would reward his behavior with treats as well. This will help him improve his memory and intelligence.
Grooming Requirements
Cane Corso
With his short coat, grooming is not a problem at all. Weekly brushing is enough to minimize his shedding. When he gets dirty, washing his coat is enough to get back the sleek and clean-looking fur, but be careful not to overdo it.
Mild shampoos for dogs are the best and adding in supplements will help improve his coat and skin condition. Introduce early on the other habits for hygiene like nail trimming, tooth brushing, and ear cleaning.
American Bully
Remove all the dead hair and spread the natural oil of the American Bully by brushing him at least once a week. The greatest brushing tool you’ll ever find is none other than a soft bristle brush. Give him a wash every 6-8 weeks or whenever deemed necessary.
Make sure his other vital areas are checked regularly too to keep his whole physical health superb.
Health Problems
Cane Corso
With a lifespan that averages between 9-12 years, some medical issues can limit a Corso’s life expectancy and quality of life. Know the potential health problems that may strike the breed which may include the following:
- Idiopathic epilepsy
- Obesity
- Demodectic Mange
- Bloat
American Bully
The American Bully, no matter how healthy, can still acquire and develop health issues. Some of which include:
- Cherry eye
- Cataracts
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Aside from vet check-ups, buy quality meals for him to help improve his condition.
Breed Popularity
The AKC has sorted out the popularity ranking of the following breeds:
Cane Corso: 32nd
American Bully: Indefinite (Not recognized by the AKC)
