Cane Corsos and Presa Canarios

The Cane Corso and Presa Canario are two similar, but distinct European mastiff-type breeds that are  commonly used for guarding and protection work. The Cane Corso is now the more popular of the two breeds, and one that we worth with on a regular basis. However, with the right owners, the Presa can still be an excellent working and protection dog.

The Cane Corso originates in Italy, and was developed as a general-purpose farm dog that could guard the homestead, protect livestock, and hunt. Given the proximity it would live to its family, the Corso forms strong bonds and is often known as a “Velcro dog”. It is highly intelligent, takes well to training, and good with children it has been socialised with. As it was bred to both protect and hunt, it is highly versatile.

The Presa Canario is Spanish, hailing from the Canary Islands. As it worked more like a traditional livestock guardian than the Cane Corso, it is naturally independent and requires more socialisation and training. It is also slightly shorter, but longer. As a previously endangered breed, its genetic stock is more limited than that of the Cane Corso and it is prone to certain health issues that may shorten its life.

Having said that, both breeds are formidable guardians and highly capable protectors. Naturally suspicious of strangers and requiring consistent and firm but kind training, they form strong bonds and can thrive in active homes with present families. While they do require committed owners, they are outstanding dogs and can make wonderful protectors and companions in the right homes.

We are one of the UK’s leading Cane Corso trainers, and have placed dozens of this breed in homes around the world. If you are interested in purchasing a trained Cane Corso as a family protection dog, please email us on info@protectiondogs.co.uk.