Boerboels and Cane Corsos are two loyal family breeds that get a bit of a bad rap due to their appearance!
While they may look tough or intimidating, these large dogs have a wealth of positive attributes that have enabled them to stick endure throughout history to enjoy their growing surge of popularity today.
Because they’re both mastiff types, the Boerboel and the Cane Corso share many similarities in appearance, behavior, and intelligence.
However, there are also more than enough differences between the two to require careful consideration before adopting either one or both of these powerful and courageous breeds.
Cane Corso vs Boerboel: Bite force
Nobody likes to get bitten but, lets be clear, both of these dogs have strong jaws. The Cane Corso is one of the strongest biters in this respect with a 700 psi bite force – thats enough to crush a house brick. By way of comparison, humans have a bite force of 162 psi.
The Boerboel, on the other hand, has a bite force of 450 psi. Thats still incredibly powerful, making them one of the worlds most powerful dogs. Indeed, 450 psi is stronger than a grey wolf and on a par with a black piranha. Its why solid training is vital for both breeds.
This isn’t unlike the English Mastiff, which was also saved from extinction in the 1800s and was done so by what some people think was bringing in the saint bernard into the breeding line. This is why a very small portion of EMs to this day still have a fluffy appearance. The Cane Corso is also often mistaken for other breeds, like the American Pitbull Terrier.
If either breed misses out on this important training then they can grow up to be too protective, or even aggressive with other humans or animals. If they do receive adequate training then they will transform into delightful doggos who are a pleasure to be around.
They differ slightly in their temperament, the Cane Corso is quicker to react and can become actively aggressive if he fears that his family is in danger. The Boerboel is slightly calmer and will watch the situation in front of him unfold while assessing how to best react. The Boerboel is also much heavier and stockier than the Cane Corso. In this article, we are going to take a closer look at them both and compare their qualities.
They require intense and consistent training to ensure that they are well-mannered pups, and they require a dominant pack leader to ensure that they do not become unruly. But if this is something that you can master, then they are both fantastic family breeds that will reward you with bags of loyalty and heaps of fun!
Though typically cropped, it is still important to check their ears and clean them out regularly to avoid infection. Clearing out wax or debris every three or four days should be plenty. Taking a cotton swab dipped in baby oil or coconut oil and making your way from the ear flaps to the inner ear is the best way to accomplish this. Just be sure not to go too deep!
Cane Corso vs Boerboel: Size and appearance
Both breeds look similar to some degree. They have square-shaped heads and a long, broad muzzle and they are also roughly the same size – they each grow to roughly 28 inches (71cm) in height.
The Boerboel is bulkier and its not unknown for this breed to be twice the weight of a Cane Corso. Thats not to say the Cane Corso isnt muscular – far from it – but the Boerboel can look more imposing and stocky simply because of that extra weight.
Otherwise, the main differences are color and coat. Boerboel fur is short and smooth whereas a Cane Corsos coat is short yet thicker and stiffer. Boerboels are usually lighter in color but the Cane Corso also tends to be black, even though there are red, fawn, and gray colors too. Interestingly, one of the top ten Cane Corso facts shows how lifespan may be linked to color, so bear that in mind.
FAQ
Is a Cane Corso bigger than a Boerboel?
What dog breed can beat a Cane Corso?