Summary: The Alabai dog weighs 90-120 lbs and stands 27-32 inches tall, while the Cane Corso weighs 90-120 lbs and stands 23-28 inches tall. The Alabai has a bite force of 550 PSI, while the Cane Corso’s is 700 PSI, giving the Cane Corso an edge in strength. |
The Alabai Dog vs Cane Corso are both large, muscular dog breeds that are known for their strength, protective nature, and loyalty to their families. While both breeds share some similarities, such as their guarding instincts and impressive physicality, they each have unique characteristics that make them stand out in the world of working dogs. The Alabai is larger and bred for guarding livestock, while the Cane Corso is leaner, more agile, and bred for protection. GPS dog collars help track both powerful breeds in wide areas.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their history, physical characteristics, temperament, strengths, and abilities, backed by numerical data, to determine which breed might come out on top in a hypothetical confrontation. Discover the perfect collar size for an Anatolian Shepherd Dog to ensure comfort and security for your furry friend.
Blog Highlights
ToggleComparison Table: Alabai Dog vs Cane Corso
Feature | Alabai Dog | Cane Corso |
Weight | 90-120 lbs | 90-120 lbs |
Height | 27-32 inches | 23-28 inches |
Bite Force | 550 PSI | 700 PSI |
Temperament | Protective, independent | Loyal, protective |
Lifespan | 12-15 years | 9-12 years |
Breed Origins and History of Alabai Dog vs Cane Corso
Understanding the origins of each breed helps explain their instincts, behaviors, and specific talents. The history of the Alabai and Cane Corso is a testament to their roles as protective and working dogs in various parts of the world.
Cane Corsos are more trainable and responsive, while Alabais are independent and may resist commands. Pet tech products help manage their behavior and routines effectively.
Alabai Origins:
The Alabai, also known as the Central Asian Shepherd Dog, originates from Central Asia, particularly from countries like Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. This breed has an ancient history, dating back over 4,000 years. The Alabai was originally bred to protect livestock from large predators like wolves and bears.

It is known for its ability to withstand harsh climates, including extreme cold and heat, which was essential for protecting flocks in the region’s vast steppes. The breed’s primary role was to serve as a guardian for livestock, making it a highly independent and intelligent working dog.
In terms of power, the Alabai has a stronger bite and a bulkier frame, but Corsos may react faster. Electronic dog collars offer control for both breeds during off-leash training.
Cane Corso Origins:
The Cane Corso hails from Italy, where it was bred to guard livestock and hunt large game, such as wild boar. The breed’s origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was used for a variety of tasks, including war, herding, and guarding.

The Cane Corso is a descendant of the Roman Molossers, a group of dogs used in battle due to their strength and fearlessness. Today, the Cane Corso is primarily used as a guard dog, family companion, and working dog, excelling in protection and obedience.
Both need experienced owners, firm leadership, and early socialization to thrive. Dog training equipment is essential for handling their strength and guarding instincts.
Both breeds have deep working roots, but the Alabai was primarily bred to protect livestock from large predators, while the Cane Corso was more focused on guarding and hunting. Learn more about the unique double-layered coat of an Anatolian Shepherd and how to care for it effectively.
Physical Characteristics and Size of Alabai Dog vs Cane Corso
When comparing the physical attributes of the Alabai and Cane Corso, it’s clear that both are large and muscular dogs. Their size plays a significant role in their capabilities as working dogs and protectors.
Alabai Size:
The Alabai is a large breed with a robust, muscular build. Males typically stand between 27 to 32 inches (69 to 81 cm) at the shoulder, while females are generally smaller, standing between 25 to 30 inches (64 to 76 cm). The breed’s weight ranges from 90 to 150 pounds (41 to 68 kg), with males often being on the heavier side. The Alabai’s strong, powerful frame is designed for endurance, allowing it to protect livestock over vast territories.

Cane Corso Size:
The Cane Corso is also a large breed, with males standing between 25 to 28 inches (64 to 71 cm) at the shoulder and females standing between 23 to 26 inches (58 to 66 cm). The breed’s weight ranges from 90 to 120 pounds (41 to 54 kg), with males being heavier than females.
The Cane Corso has a muscular and athletic build, which gives it both power and agility. While slightly smaller than the Alabai in terms of height and weight, the Cane Corso’s physique is still formidable and designed for both strength and speed.

In terms of size, the Alabai is the larger breed, with a more significant weight range and greater overall height. This gives the Alabai an advantage in terms of raw physical power, although the Cane Corso is still a very strong dog in its own right.
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Strength and Power of Alabai Dog vs Cane Corso
Strength and power are essential for both the Alabai and Cane Corso, as both breeds were developed for guarding and protection. The raw physical strength of each breed allows them to handle various tasks, including subduing large animals or defending their territory.
Alabai Strength:
The Alabai is known for its immense strength and muscular build. This breed was specifically developed to protect livestock from large predators such as wolves and bears, which required a tremendous amount of power.
The bite force of an Alabai is estimated to be between 500 to 700 PSI (pounds per square inch), which is significantly higher than many other dog breeds. This powerful bite allows the Alabai to defend itself and its territory effectively. Its robust frame and strong limbs make it a formidable force, capable of handling intense physical challenges.
Cane Corso Strength:
The Cane Corso is also an incredibly strong dog, with a bite force estimated at around 700 PSI, which is among the highest of all dog breeds. Its strength, combined with its muscular frame and broad chest, makes the Cane Corso an excellent guard dog.

The Cane Corso is agile for its size, and its power is often seen in its ability to subdue intruders and protect its family. The breed’s muscularity gives it a physical presence that commands respect, and its bite force is one of the reasons it’s often used as a working protection dog.
In terms of strength and bite force, the Cane Corso and Alabai are comparable. Both breeds are incredibly powerful, but the Cane Corso might have a slight edge in terms of its overall muscularity and bite force.
Temperament and Behavior of Cane Corso vs Alabai Dog
The temperament and behavior of a dog play a significant role in its ability to fulfill its intended purpose. Both the Alabai and Cane Corso are protective dogs, but their approach to guarding and their general demeanor can differ.
Alabai Temperament:
The Alabai is an independent and intelligent breed that is highly protective of its family and territory. It is known for its strong guarding instincts and ability to make decisions on its own, especially in situations where it needs to protect livestock.
The Alabai is not overly aggressive but will act decisively if it perceives a threat. It is not a dog that is easily trained due to its independent nature, but with proper socialization, the Alabai can be a loyal and trustworthy companion. However, it can be aloof and wary of strangers, making it a highly effective guard dog.
Cane Corso Temperament:
The Cane Corso is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts. It is a naturally calm dog that bonds strongly with its family, and it tends to be very protective of its loved ones. While the Cane Corso is known to be affectionate and good-natured with its family, it can be wary of strangers, making it an excellent choice for protection.
The breed is generally easy to train due to its intelligence and eagerness to please. However, without proper socialization and training, the Cane Corso can become overly protective or territorial.
In terms of temperament, both breeds are protective and loyal, but the Alabai tends to be more independent, while the Cane Corso is generally more trainable and easier to socialize. For a comprehensive guide on what kind of harness is best for a Pomeranian, including comfort and safety tips, check out this article.
Endurance and Stamina of Cane Corso vs Alabai Dog
Endurance and stamina are crucial qualities for working dogs, and both the Alabai and Cane Corso have impressive physical endurance.
Alabai Endurance:
The Alabai is built for long hours of work, particularly in extreme conditions. It was bred to guard livestock over vast territories, often in harsh climates. This breed has a high level of endurance, allowing it to remain active for extended periods while protecting its flock. The Alabai’s ability to withstand extreme temperatures and its stamina make it a highly resilient dog, capable of long-term physical exertion.
Cane Corso Endurance:
The Cane Corso is also a breed with significant endurance, though it was bred for different tasks. The Cane Corso’s endurance is demonstrated in its ability to work as a guard dog or hunter for extended periods.
While not as suited for harsh climates as the Alabai, the Cane Corso is agile and capable of sustaining physical activity for long stretches, particularly when it comes to guarding its territory or chasing down prey.
Both breeds are capable of impressive endurance, but the Alabai’s endurance is geared toward long-term protection in extreme conditions, while the Cane Corso’s endurance is more suited to shorter, intense bursts of activity.
Speed and Agility of Cane Corso vs Alabai Dog
Speed and agility can be crucial in various scenarios, whether it’s chasing down an intruder or responding quickly to a threat.
Alabai Speed:
The Alabai is not particularly known for its speed or agility, as it is a larger, more powerful dog. It can run at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (40 km/h), which is relatively fast for a breed of its size. However, it is not as nimble or quick as some other breeds, given its large frame and muscular build.
Cane Corso Speed:
The Cane Corso is faster and more agile than the Alabai, with a top speed of about 30 miles per hour (48 km/h). This makes the Cane Corso more capable of chasing down intruders or responding quickly to threats. Its agility, combined with its power, makes the Cane Corso a highly effective guard dog, able to move quickly and decisively when needed.
In terms of speed and agility, the Cane Corso has the advantage. It is faster and more nimble, making it better suited to tasks requiring quick movements. Discover if the American Eskimo is a guard dog and learn about its suitability for protecting your home.
Who Would Win in a Fight?
If the Alabai dog vs Cane Corso were to engage in a confrontation, several factors would determine the winner. The Alabai’s larger size, greater bite force, and endurance give it an edge in terms of raw power. Its strong guarding instincts, built for protection against large predators, make it a formidable opponent in a fight.
However, the Cane Corso is also a powerful and agile dog, with a slightly higher bite force and superior speed and agility. Its ability to move quickly and outmaneuver the Alabai could give it an advantage in certain situations. The Cane Corso’s intelligence and trainability also play a role in its ability to outsmart and strategize in a confrontation.
Ultimately, the outcome of a fight would depend on the specific circumstances, such as the environment and the individual dogs’ temperament. However, in terms of size and strength, the Alabai may have the upper hand, while the Cane Corso’s speed and agility could allow it to evade and outmaneuver its opponent.
Conclusion
The Alabai and Cane Corso are both exceptional breeds with impressive physical attributes and strong protective instincts. The Alabai is a larger, more powerful dog with greater endurance and a bite force that can overpower many other breeds. Its independence and natural guarding abilities make it an excellent protector for livestock and property.
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On the other hand, the Cane Corso is a slightly smaller, but incredibly strong and agile breed. Its high bite force, speed, and trainability make it a formidable guard dog and a loyal family companion. While the Alabai may have the advantage in terms of size and power, the Cane Corso’s agility, intelligence, and speed could give it an edge in certain scenarios.
Both breeds excel in their roles as protectors and working dogs, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to individual preferences and needs. Whether you prefer the raw power and independence of the Alabai or the agility and trainability of the Cane Corso, both breeds are worthy of admiration for their strength, loyalty, and capabilities.