Cane Corso vs Rottweiler

Two serious guardians in sleek black suits. The Rottweiler is the more trainable, family-tolerant bodyguard; the Cane Corso is more aloof and more independent.

— Dr. Waggs

Side by side

Cane CorsoRottweilerVerdict
Size4/54/5Tie
Energy3/53/5Tie
Shedding3/53/5Tie
Barking3/53/5Tie
Trainability3/54/5The Rottweiler is easier to train
Kid-friendliness3/54/5The Rottweiler is better with kids
Drooling4/54/5Tie
Life expectancy9–12 years9–10 yearsThe Cane Corso lives longer

Vet costs

Age 1, U.S.-average prices, $2,000 emergency savings.

Cane Corso

  • First-year expected vet cost: $904
  • Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $64/mo
  • Top cost drivers: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) · Underactive thyroid
  • Expected lifetime vet cost: $12,736

Full Cane Corso vet-cost estimate

Rottweiler

  • First-year expected vet cost: $1,060
  • Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $81/mo
  • Top cost drivers: Subaortic Stenosis (SAS) · Elbow dysplasia
  • Expected lifetime vet cost: $11,974

Full Rottweiler vet-cost estimate

Lifetime totals include lifespan: the Cane Corso is expected to live 9–12 years, the Rottweiler 9–10 years.

In year one, the Cane Corso is expected to cost about $155 less.

Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.

Choose the Cane Corso if…

  • You're an experienced owner who wants a property guardian
  • You'll invest in socialization from day one
  • You want a slightly more athletic, leaner build

Choose the Rottweiler if…

  • You want a guardian that's more eager to work with you
  • You have kids and will supervise and train consistently
  • You enjoy regular obedience work

FAQ

Which is cheaper to insure?

In year one, the Cane Corso is expected to cost about $155 less. Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: Cane Corso $64, Rottweiler $81. Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.

Which sheds more?

It's a tie on shedding. Shedding: Cane Corso 3/5, Rottweiler 3/5.

Which lives longer?

The Cane Corso lives longer. Cane Corso: 9–12 years; Rottweiler: 9–10 years.

Which is better with kids?

The Rottweiler is better with kids. Kid-friendliness: Cane Corso 3/5, Rottweiler 4/5.

Test-drive the Cane Corso · Test-drive the Rottweiler · Cane Corso profile · Rottweiler profile