Cane Corso vs Doberman: What’s Different?

Whether you’re just curious or you’re someone looking for a guard dog, you may be wondering what’s the difference between the Cane Corso vs Doberman. While they can be similar in some ways, such as protectiveness, these are two completely different dog breeds with their own personalities and needs.

If you’re interested in learning just what’s different between the Cane Corso and the Doberman, keep reading!

Comparing the Cane Corso vs Doberman

Cane Corso vs Doberman: 4 Key Differences

The main differences between a Cane Corso and a Doberman are size, appearance, temperament, and origin.

Despite both being guard dogs, the Cane Corso and the Doberman actually have quite a few differences. Take their sizes, for instance. The Cane Corso is around the same height as the Doberman, but it is much bulkier – weighing up to 10 pounds more at its largest. It also has different coat textures and patterns, with an undercoat and brindle as a possible color. However, the most notable differences are in their personalities. Whereas the Doberman is protective and alert, Cane Corso is reserved, independent, and even gentle. In fact, beneath their tough exterior, it is quite the affectionate dog.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Cane Corso vs Doberman, keep reading below for a more in-depth look at what sets these breeds apart. 

Cane Corso vs Doberman: Size

The Cane Corso and the Doberman are very similar if you’re only comparing their heights. However, the Cane Corso has a large height range, with its lowest average height being one inch shorter than the Doberman. These measurements are based on the dogs’ withers, which is their height measured from the ground to their shoulders. 

However, the Cane Corso is much bulkier than the Doberman when it comes to weight. Despite having an equal – or even smaller – frame, the Cane Corso can weigh as much as 10 pounds more than the heaviest Doberman. The Cane Corso also has a heavier minimum weight than the lightest Doberman. 

Cane Corso vs Doberman: Origin

Many of the differences between the Cane Corso and the Doberman come from their unique histories. Both breeds were bred in different areas for different roles.

The Cane Corso can be traced back to ancient Italy, where it was a descendent of the extinct molossus, a Roman war dog. In fact, its name is a mixture of Italian and Latin terms which come together to mean “dog guardian”. In its earliest days, the Cane Corso had many roles, from livestock guardian to war dog to protector. At one point, they faced extinction, but enthusiasts helped revive the breed and keep it going even in modern times. 

The Doberman originates from Germany at the end of the 19th century. Here, it was bred from a variety of breeds to become the best protector, a job which they still succeed at today. 

Cane Corso vs Doberman: Appearance

The Cane Corso has a short, smooth coat with a thin undercoat. It can come in a variety of darker colors, including brindle. One of its most defining traits is its broad head and square muzzle, which give it an appearance similar to a pit bull. The Doberman, however, has a narrow face and comes in a variety of traditional bicolor patterns, such as black and rust, as well as solid colors like white. 

It’s also important to note that, despite being the same height as the Doberman, they have different body compositions. The Cane Corso is a dense, robust breed with a large body. The Doberman, however, appears more lean and athletic, with a narrower body and longer legs. 

Cane Corso vs Doberman: Temperament

Both the Cane Corso and the Doberman have a protective and loyal disposition. However, the Doberman is more alert and active. Fearless, it’ll face trouble head and do whatever it takes to keep its family safe. It is also family-oriented, and will love to lounge around with family when it is not busy patrolling the house. 

The Cane Corso, however, is much more quiet and reserved. It is less explicit with intentions than the Doberman, and rather than full-blown pacing the house to patrol, it may just subtly lift its head when deciding whether or not to alert you. Still, it thrives with this job and will do best with similar forms of mental stimulation to keep healthy and run out its high energy. Like the Doberman, it is highly affectionate with its family. 

Cane Corso vs Doberman: Conclusion

The Cane Corso is a bulky protective breed with a short double coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. It is a bit reserved but not timid and loves to spend time with its families. The Doberman is leaner, with a similar short coat and its own variety of colors different from the Cane Corso.

Neither the Cane Corso nor the Doberman is recommended for first-time owners due to the level of intense training and socialization they’ll need to keep their protectiveness from turning into aggression. However, with the right training and time, both can make the perfect addition to any home looking for a loving protector. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Nikolai Tsvetkov/Shutterstock.com