When it comes to choosing a large dog breed, two of the most popular options are the Cane Corso and the Great Dane. Both breeds are impressive in their own right and have their unique features, but which one is right for you? In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the differences and similarities between the Cane Corso and Great Dane to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Appearance
One of the most noticeable differences between the Cane Corso and Great Dane is their appearance. The Cane Corso is a muscular and athletic breed, with a height of 23-27 inches and a weight of 88-110 pounds. They have a short coat that can come in black, blue, fawn, gray, or red. Their head is large and square, and their ears are typically cropped. In terms of overall appearance, the Cane Corso gives off an athletic, rugged look.
The Great Dane, on the other hand, is known for its sheer size. They can stand up to 32 inches in height and weigh up to 175 pounds. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, blue, black, and brindle. Great Danes have long, elegant legs, and their head is long and narrow. While the Cane Corso appears muscular and athletic, the Great Dane exudes grace and elegance.
Read also: Mix Between A Great Dane And Cane Corso
Behavior and Temperament
Both the Cane Corso and the Great Dane are known for their loyalty and protective nature. However, there are some differences in their temperaments that you should consider.
Cane Corsos are known to be more aloof and reserved with strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. They are fiercely loyal to their family and are incredibly intelligent, which makes them easy to train. They are also known to be affectionate with their owner, making them great family pets.
Great Danes, on the other hand, are known for their gentle and loving nature. They are loyal and protective of their family but are also known for their calm demeanor. They are great with children and make excellent family pets. However, they can also be quite needy and require a lot of attention.
Exercise and Training
Both the Cane Corso and Great Dane require a significant amount of exercise. However, the level of exercise needed for each breed is different.
Cane Corsos need regular exercise, including daily walks and training sessions. They were originally bred as hunting dogs and are used to being outside and physically active. Without the proper amount of exercise, Cane Corsos can become destructive and develop health problems.
Great Danes also need regular exercise, but they are not as intense as Cane Corsos. They enjoy going for walks and playing, but they are also known for lounging around and being mellow. Great Danes have a tendency to become lazy and overweight if they do not get enough exercise.
Both Cane Corsos and Great Danes are intelligent breeds and are relatively easy to train. Cane Corsos are known for their eagerness to please their owner, which makes them easy to train. However, they can be strong-willed and need a firm and consistent hand during training. Great Danes are also relatively easy to train but require a lot of positive reinforcement and rewards.
Read also: Cane Corso vs Doberman: Differences and Similarities
Great Dane Dog Bitch
Health
Like all breeds, both the Cane Corso and Great Dane are prone to certain health problems.
Cane Corsos are prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and eye problems. They can also suffer from certain skin conditions, which can be caused by allergies or poor grooming habits.
Great Danes are prone to hip dysplasia, heart problems, and bloat. They are also prone to certain eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma.
It is important to note that both breeds have a relatively short lifespan compared to smaller breeds. Cane Corsos live an average of 9-12 years, while Great Danes live an average of 7-10 years.
Price
Finally, when considering a Cane Corso or Great Dane as your next pet, it is important to consider the price.
Cane Corsos are a relatively expensive breed, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $4,000. The cost can be higher if you are getting a puppy from a reputable breeder.
Great Danes are also relatively expensive, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $3,500. However, the cost can be higher if you are getting a puppy from a reputable breeder.
Grooming
Cane Corsos have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. They shed moderately, so they need regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Cane Corsos also need their nails trimmed regularly to avoid overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort and even pain. Beyond that, they need occasional baths to maintain good hygiene, oral care to avoid gum disease, and ear cleaning to prevent infections.
The Great Dane also has a short coat that requires minimal grooming. They shed moderately as well, so they need regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Great Danes also need their nails trimmed regularly, as overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even injuries. They require occasional baths to maintain good hygiene, oral care to avoid gum disease, and ear cleaning to prevent infections.
However, there are some differences between the two when it comes to grooming. Cane Corsos are known to have a more sensitive skin than Great Danes, which means that you need to use gentle shampoos and conditioners when grooming them. Abrasive or harsh grooming products can lead to skin irritation, which can cause discomfort and even infection.
On the other hand, Great Danes have a higher risk of certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia or joint problems. It means that you need to be careful when grooming them, especially when brushing their coat or trimming their nails. Rough handling can cause pain or even injury, which can exacerbate their underlying health conditions.
In general, both Cane Corsos and Great Danes are easy to groom compared to longer-haired breeds. They require minimal grooming and are relatively low-maintenance. Still, you need to be consistent with their grooming routine to maintain proper hygiene and prevent health issues.
Conclusion
When it comes down to the Cane Corso vs. Great Dane comparison, both breeds have their unique features that make them great pets. The Cane Corso exudes athleticism and loyalty, making them great for those who want a guard dog or an active pet. The Great Dane, on the other hand, is known for its gentleness and is perfect for those who want a gentle giant as their companion.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cane Corso and Great Dane comes down to personal preference. Both breeds require a lot of love, attention, and exercise, and both are prone to certain health issues. When choosing between the two, it is crucial to consider your lifestyle, temperament, and budget. With careful consideration, you can make an informed decision and choose a pet that will become an integral part of your family for years to come.
