Boston Terrier vs Cane Corso

Non-Sporting · Small vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Cane Corso is the larger breed at 99–110 lbs (males) vs 12–25 lbs for the Boston Terrier.
  • The Boston Terrier typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Cane Corso has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Boston Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBoston TerrierCane Corso
Group
Non-SportingWorking
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
USAItaly
Height (male)
15–17"25–27.5"
Height (female)
15–17"23.5–26"
Weight (male)
12–25 lbs99–110 lbs
Weight (female)
12–25 lbs88–99 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years9–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.

About the Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is an assertive, smart, intelligent Italian guard mastiff — Roman war dog turned modern protector. Originally from Italy, this large working breed typically weighs 99–110 lbs and lives 9–12 years. Breeders describe them as assertive, smart, intelligent.

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Boston Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Eye problems
  • Patellar luxation
  • Allergies

Cane Corso health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye problems
  • Cherry eye