Cane Corso vs Dogue de Bordeaux

Choosing between Cane Corso and Dogue de Bordeaux? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Cane Corso is the higher-energy of the two, while Dogue de Bordeaux 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.

Cane Corso vs Dogue de Bordeaux: full comparison

TraitCane CorsoDogue de Bordeaux
SizeLargeLarge
Energy levelMediumLow
TrainabilityHighMedium
FriendlinessMediumHigh
Good with childrenMediumHigh
Grooming needsVery LowVery Low
SheddingMediumMedium
BarkingLowLow
ProtectivenessVery HighHigh
AdaptabilityMediumMedium
Typical lifespan10 years8 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Size and living space

The Cane Corso is a big, substantial dog that wants a roomier home and ideally a yard to move around in. By comparison, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a big, substantial dog 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 Cane Corso needs a solid walk or two a day plus some active play. The Dogue de Bordeaux needs a modest daily walk and some light play to stay happy. 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 Cane Corso is very easy to groom — an occasional brush is all it takes and loses a fair amount of coat, especially seasonally. The Dogue de Bordeaux is very easy to groom — an occasional brush is all it takes and loses a fair amount of coat, especially seasonally. Grooming upkeep is similar for both.

Temperament, training and family life

The Cane Corso takes to training fast and works willingly, speaks up only now and then and gets on with children when raised around them. The Dogue de Bordeaux picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, speaks up only now and then and suits families with children particularly well. On guarding instinct, Cane Corso is a strong natural guardian with a powerful protective instinct, whereas Dogue de Bordeaux is naturally watchful and protective of its family and home.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Cane Corso if you want a longer-lived breed, you want an easier dog to train, or you want a more protective, watchful guardian.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Cane Corso or the Dogue de Bordeaux better for families with children?
The Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Cane Corso or the Dogue de Bordeaux?
The Cane Corso and Dogue de Bordeaux shed a similar amount (medium).
Which is easier to train, the Cane Corso or the Dogue de Bordeaux?
The Cane Corso is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.
Is Cane Corso or Dogue de Bordeaux bigger?
Cane Corso and Dogue de Bordeaux are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, Cane Corso or Dogue de Bordeaux?
Both bark a similar amount (low).
Which is better for apartment living, Cane Corso or Dogue de Bordeaux?
For apartment or apartment living, Dogue de Bordeaux has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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