Presa Canario vs Cane Corso: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, both Presa Canario and Cane Corso may look like an intimidating breed of dog, and you’d be right to think so. They can both be used as protectors and are typically about 2 feet tall and over 100 lbs.

However, with proper training both dogs can become welcome members of the family, working to keep you safe and loved.

Read on to learn the subtle differences between the two breeds.

Presa Canario vs Cane Corso: Comparison Table

	Presa Canario	Cane Corso
Average Age	9-11 years	10-12 years
Average Weight	80-100+ lbs	90-120 lbs
Average Height (at the shoulder)	20-25 in	About 24 in
Typical health	Generally healthy	Generally healthy
Typical behavior with people	Distrustful	Indifferent
Shedding	Average	Sheds heavily twice a year

Presa Canario vs Cane Corso: History

Both Presa Canario and Cane Corso are large, intimidating-looking dogs. They both were originally farm workers and can be used for protection.

Presa Canario History

The Presa Canario originated in the Canary Islands in the 1800s. They were originally used on farms to protect livestock, catch cattle that strayed from the herd, and hunt wild boar.

For a brief period, Presa Canario was a popular dog-fighting breed before it was outlawed.

Cane Corso History

The Corso is descended from Roman War Dogs in the mastiff family. They were bred in Italy to hunt, guard, and help on the farm. 

The breed almost died out in the second half of the 1900s as farming became more and more automated. They came to America in 1988, but wouldn’t be recognized by the American Kennel Club until 2010.

Related Reading: Dogo Argentino vs Cane Corso: What’s the Difference?

Presa Canario vs Cane Corso: Temperament

Unfortunately, both Presa Canario and Cane Corso can give off some aggressive vibes based on looks alone. However, once the dog is a part of your family/pack it becomes plain that both dogs can be very loving and affectionate.

Presa Canario Temperament

Presa Canario is a calm, loving, family dog. Their natural distrust of strangers makes them useful as a protector. They are not afraid to confront an intruder and scare them away.

Presa Canario can become aggressive, but with the proper training, this can be the exception rather than the rule. 

Cane Corso Temperament

A Corso’s behavior is very dependent upon their upbringing and handler. With a good and confident handler, they are an affectionate and docile family dog. However, if they are raised inappropriately, they can become aggressive.

Corsos are described as being highly intelligent but bossy and domineering. Because of this, you should be prepared for a dog who will try to test your boundaries.

Presa Canario vs Cane Corso: Grooming

Both Presa Canario and Cane Corsos are big dogs, so you should accustom them to being touched and groomed at a young age so they are easier to handle and fully grown.

Also, if you ever notice any signs of infection like strange smells, rashes, redness, or inflammation please take your pup to the vet.

Presa Canario Grooming

Presa Canario generally has a short, rough, easy-to-groom coat. It does shed, but not as bad as some breeds. A firm bristle brush followed by a quick wipe with a soft towel will keep the coat looking shiny and nice.

They do need their teeth brushed, nails trimmed, and ears checked on a semi-regular basis.

Cane Corso Grooming

Corsos have a short stiff coat that sheds pretty heavily two times a year. They also benefit from regular brushing (teeth and fur), bathing, and trimming their nails. Finally, Corsos need to have their ears cleaned, or at least checked, weekly.

Presa Canario vs Cane Corso: Training

Neither Presa Canario nor Cane Corso makes for good first-time pets. They both require a strong hand to train them and love them.

Presa Canario Training

Presa Canario is a breed that benefits from a strong handler who can quickly establish itself at the top of the pecking order. They have some migratory instincts, so expect to be doing daily long walks to help burn off their energy.

They are known for being obedient but confident. This combination means with an experienced handler, Presa Canario is a well-behaved dog, but with an inexperienced or insecure owner, the dog may be much harder to control.

Cane Corso Training

Corsos aren’t a fantastic first choice if you have never worked with a dog before. They need a strong leader to keep firm boundaries – which does not mean hitting the dog, as that can increase aggression and fear.

This large, powerful pup responds well to praise and the idea of performing – even small tasks like sitting – to earn treats, food, and toys. Corsos also understands the tone of voice, so you do not have to yell; a firm voice will help get your message across just fine.

They also need daily mental and physical stimulation to ensure they burn off their energy and keep their minds engaged.

Presa Canario vs Cane Corso: Lifespan

Presa Canarios live for 9-11 years. Cane Corsos typically live for 10-12 years.

Presa Canario vs Cane Corso: Health

Regardless of whether you select a Presa Canario or a Cane Corso to bring to your home, you should get a reasonably healthy dog.

Presa Canario Health

Presa Canario is typically a healthy dog, though they can have some health concerns. Be sure to be on the lookout for hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, hypothyroidism, mange, epilepsy, and cryptorchidism.

A breeder should be able to provide you with clearances and information about the dog’s parents to help you know they are healthy.

Cane Corso Health

Corsos are prone to a few health issues including Hip Dysplasia, eyelid abnormalities, mange, and bloat.

If you get your Corso from a breeder, you should also receive health clearances for both hips and eyes.

Conclusion

While the Presa Canario sheds less, they are a little less cuddly in the home. Conversely, the Cane Corso lives a little longer and is more intelligent, but they do need more mental and physical stimulation.

Consider adoption or find a reputable breeder while you are shopping for your next dog. But regardless of whether you want a Presa Canario or a Cane Corso, you will find yourself with a lovable protector. 

Related Reading: Cane Corso and Poodle Mix: A Complete Guide