Bullmastiff vs Cane Corso

Choosing between Bullmastiff and Cane Corso? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Cane Corso is the higher-energy of the two, while Bullmastiff is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Bullmastiff vs Cane Corso: full comparison

TraitBullmastiffCane Corso
SizeLargeLarge
Energy levelLowMedium
TrainabilityMediumHigh
FriendlinessHighMedium
Good with childrenHighMedium
Grooming needsVery LowVery Low
SheddingMediumMedium
BarkingLowLow
ProtectivenessVery HighVery High
AdaptabilityMediumMedium
Typical lifespan9 years10 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Size and living space

The Bullmastiff is a large and powerful breed that wants a roomier home and ideally a yard to move around in. By comparison, the Cane Corso is a large and powerful breed that wants a roomier home and ideally a yard to move around in. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Bullmastiff needs light but regular activity to stay content. The Cane Corso thrives on daily walks plus a bit of active play. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Bullmastiff takes almost no grooming, since the odd brush keeps it tidy and sheds moderately, with heavier blowouts as the seasons turn. The Cane Corso takes almost no grooming, since the odd brush keeps it tidy and sheds moderately, with heavier blowouts as the seasons turn. Grooming upkeep is similar for both.

Temperament, training and family life

The Bullmastiff trains reasonably well with regular positive sessions, speaks up only now and then and suits families with children particularly well. The Cane Corso learns quickly and enjoys the training process, speaks up only now and then and gets on with children when raised around them. On guarding instinct, Bullmastiff is a strong natural guardian with a powerful protective instinct, whereas Cane Corso is a strong natural guardian with a powerful protective instinct.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Bullmastiff if you want the more child-friendly companion, you want a more outgoing, sociable dog, or you want a calmer, lower-energy companion.

Choose the Cane Corso if you want an easier dog to train, you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure, or you want a longer-lived breed.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Bullmastiff or the Cane Corso better for families with children?
The Bullmastiff tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialization.
Which sheds more, the Bullmastiff or the Cane Corso?
The Bullmastiff and Cane Corso shed a similar amount (medium).
Which is easier to train, the Bullmastiff or the Cane Corso?
The Cane Corso is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.
Is Bullmastiff or Cane Corso bigger?
Bullmastiff and Cane Corso are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, Bullmastiff or Cane Corso?
Both bark a similar amount (low).
Which is better for apartment living, Bullmastiff or Cane Corso?
For apartment or apartment living, Bullmastiff has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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