Cane Corso vs Newfoundland

Which dog breed is right for you?

Cane Corso

Size
88–120 lbs, 24–28 in
Lifespan
9–12 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Intelligent Loyal Protective Confident

Newfoundland

Size
100–150 lbs, 26–28 in
Lifespan
9–10 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Sweet Patient Devoted Gentle

About the Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is an ancient Italian mastiff breed whose lineage traces directly to the Roman canis pugnaces — war dogs that accompanied legions into battle. Standing 23.5–27.5 inches tall and weighing 90–120 pounds, the Cane Corso is a large, athletic, and muscular dog that is notably more agile and less bulky than other mastiff breeds. Their short, stiff, double-layered coat comes in black, gray, fawn, red, and brindle — often with a black or gray mask — and requires minimal grooming.

Temperament & Personality

Cane Corsos are intelligent, loyal, and intensely protective — they are working dogs at heart, bred to guard property, livestock, and families with quiet confidence and unwavering vigilance. They bond deeply with their owners and are affectionate and gentle within the family circle, but they are naturally suspicious of strangers and can be assertive with other dogs. This is emphatically not a breed for inexperienced owners — they require firm, consistent leadership and extensive socialization from puppyhood.

Pros

  • Exceptional guardian — their protective instincts are reliable and deeply ingrained
  • More athletic and agile than other mastiff breeds, capable of true working performance
  • Loyal and affectionate with family — surprisingly gentle with children they've been raised with
  • Low-maintenance coat with minimal grooming needs

Cons

  • Requires an experienced, confident owner who can establish and maintain leadership
  • Can be dog-aggressive and territorial without thorough socialization
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, cherry eye, and idiopathic epilepsy
  • Their size and strength can make them dangerous if improperly trained or handled

For the right owner, a Cane Corso is an unparalleled companion and protector — find adoptable Cane Corsos on Puplister.

About the Newfoundland

The Newfoundland hails from the Canadian island of the same name, where it was bred as a working dog for fishermen — hauling nets, carrying boat lines, and even rescuing drowning swimmers. Males typically weigh 130 to 150 pounds and stand 28 inches tall, while females are slightly smaller at 100 to 120 pounds. Their thick, water-resistant double coat comes in black, brown, gray, or the striking black-and-white "Landseer" pattern.

Temperament & Personality

Newfoundlands are renowned for their sweet, patient, and devoted temperament — often called "nanny dogs" for their extraordinary gentleness with children. They are calm indoors, deeply loyal, and have an almost instinctive drive to rescue people in water. Newfies generally get along beautifully with other dogs and pets, making them exceptional family dogs despite their enormous size.

Pros

  • Exceptional natural swimming ability and water rescue instincts
  • One of the gentlest giant breeds — outstanding with children
  • Calm and easygoing indoor demeanor despite massive size
  • Highly trainable and responsive to gentle, patient guidance

Cons

  • Heavy drooling — especially after eating, drinking, or exercise
  • Coat requires extensive grooming and sheds heavily year-round
  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, subvalvular aortic stenosis, and cystinuria
  • Shorter lifespan of 8 to 10 years common in giant breeds

A Newfoundland could be the most loving addition your family ever makes — find one waiting for a home on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

28

Cane Corsos

Browse

0

Newfoundlands

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Cane Corso and a Newfoundland?
The Cane Corso is 88–120 lbs, 24–28 in sized while the Newfoundland is 100–150 lbs, 26–28 in sized. They differ in size (88–120 lbs, 24–28 in vs 100–150 lbs, 26–28 in), lifespan (9–12 years vs 9–10 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Cane Corso or Newfoundland?
Cane Corso is generally good with kids. Newfoundland is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Cane Corso or Newfoundland?
The Cane Corso has a lifespan of 9–12 years while the Newfoundland has a lifespan of 9–10 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Dogs