Presa Canario VS Cane Corso: What Are The Key Differences?

Written by Peralee Knight
Updated: October 30, 2023
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Cane Corso vs Presa Canario

Both the Presa Canario and the Cane Corso are big dogs, and they have quite a bit in common. The Cane Corso is a descendant of the Presa Canario and the mastiff breed and is also referred to as an Italian Mastiff. When deciding between the Presa Canario vs the Cane Corso, it is important to take the key differences between the breeds into account before selecting the breed that is right for you!

Given that the Cane Corso breed is an offshoot of the Presa Canario, the two breeds are quite similar in size and build. However, each breed has unique characteristics that sets it apart, as well as from other giant breeds. Read on as we compare the presa canario vs cane corso.

Presa Canario VS Cane Corso: Key Differences In Physical Characteristics

The Presa Canario and the Cane Corso are often mistaken for each other, as they occasionally share a similar fawn coloration and overall appearance. Both are classified as large breed dogs and have a short coat of fur with little shedding. However, a closer look at each breed reveals the distinct differences that mark each dog as unique!

The Presa Canario’s Physical Distinctions

Perro De Presa Canarios resting in the park.
One key way to tell the Presa Canario from the Cane Corso is their distinctive black “nose mask!”

The Presa Canario is significantly larger than the Cane Corso overall. Presa Canario males are up to twenty-six inches in height and weigh up to 150 pounds, and females are up to twenty-five inches in height and weigh up to 110 pounds. A key feature that is unique to the Presa Canario is its catlike feet! The Presa has rounded toes spaced further apart, giving it a longer and more fluid stride that is unique to the breed.

Presa Canarios also have distinct facial markings. The breed will always have a black mask that does not extend past the dog’s eyes, as well as black noses, lips, and eye rims.

The Cane Corso’s Physical Distinctions

The Cane Corso is also a large breed but is smaller overall than the Presa Canario in terms of weight, though they are often a bit taller! Cane Corso males typically stand between 25-28 inches high and weigh up to 110 pounds. The female Corso stands between 23-26 inches high and weighs up to ninety-nine pounds. The Cane Corso’s coat is a bit denser and rougher than the Presa, and only shares the fawn coloration.

Cane Corsos also differ in the shape of their heads, which are larger and more closely resembles the structure of the Mastiff breed. This includes a more pronounced set of jowls that droop lower than the Presa’s less voluptuous bottom lips!

Presa Canario VS Cane Corso: Key Differences In Personality and Temperament

A brindle and white Perro De Presa Canarios dog with cropped ears sitting outdoors by a rustic wooden fence.

The Presa Canario and the Cane Corso are both large, powerful dogs that require an experienced and well trained owner.

©Mary Swift/Shutterstock.com

The Presa Canario and the Cane Corso are large, powerful dogs that require consistent leadership from an owner. A prospective owner of either breed must have a complete understanding of how to care for them safely! This includes taking the personality and overall temperament of the breed into consideration.

Though the Presa and the Corso breeds have comparable size and build, they were bred for distinct reasons. Therefore, they behave quite differently from each other and have unique personalities. After all, they both have different jobs to do!

Presa Canario Personality

The Presa Canario was bred to guard and protect cattle, hunting down and attacking predators. This breed later developed the unfortunate popularity for use in dogfighting due to its size and strength.

The Presa requires experienced training and steady leadership, or they become dominant and may show aggression. For this reason, they are not recommended for owners with children. However, when in the capable hands of a consistent owner, they are one of the most loyal dog breeds you could hope for!

Can Presa Canario Be Friendly?

Presa Canario dogs are known for their remarkable affectionate nature. While they may appear tough and somewhat distant around strangers, they have a strong bond with their family members and are very affectionate towards them.

Most Presa Canarios tend to thrive as the sole dog in a household, as they have a preference for this. However, without proper training, care, and attention during their early puppyhood, a Presa Canario may exhibit disobedience, aggression, and even pose potential risks in everyday situations.

Cane Corso Personality

Cane Corso dog playing the surf at the sea.

The Cane Corso, compared to the Presa, is more excellent with children and pets.

©Sbolotova/Shutterstock.com

The Cane Corso is a true working dog and a jack of all trades! These large dogs were initially bred for use in battle, then utilized for a variety of jobs including hunting, guarding, and even farm work. The Corso is a confident and intelligent breed that forms a strong and loving bond with a steady and consistent owner.

Unlike the Presa, the Cane Corso is excellent with children and other pets. They make wonderful family dogs when properly socialized and trained. The Corso is affectionate and steady, though interactions with small children are necessary due to their larger size. Their affection and enthusiasm may cause them to harm a little one by pure accident!

Presa Canario VS Cane Corso: Shared Lineage

The Presa Canario and the Cane Corso are both majestic breeds with an ancient lineage. Though these dogs may appear similar, the presa canario vs cane corso are quite different dogs. In addition to physical differences, their personalities vary dramatically. While the Presa is more domineering, the Corso also requires a well-trained and steady owner.

When considering the addition of any breed to your home, you need to know all the facts. Physical appearance and size are important factors, but personality and temperament are equally crucial! The Presa Canario is a wonderful pet for the right owner, but the Cane Corso is more suited to family life.

Despite their differences, the presa canario vs cane corso breeds are amazing dogs that are a true credit to their ancient roots!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © BoJack/Shutterstock.com

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