Cane Corso vs Rat Terrier

Working · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Cane Corso is the larger breed at 99–110 lbs (males) vs 10–25 lbs for the Rat Terrier.
  • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Rat Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Rat Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCane CorsoRat Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
ItalyUSA
Height (male)
25–27.5"10–18"
Height (female)
23.5–26"10–18"
Weight (male)
99–110 lbs10–25 lbs
Weight (female)
88–99 lbs10–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–12 years12–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier is a friendly, lovable, alert American farm terrier — President Roosevelt's favorite, born to clear vermin. Originally from USA, this small terrier breed typically weighs 10–25 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lovable, alert.

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Cane Corso health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye problems
  • Cherry eye

Rat Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues