Quick Answer
The Cane Corso is generally larger than the Presa Canario. On average, the Cane Corso tends to be 22-27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 88-110 lbs. The Presa Canario is usually 21-25 inches tall and weighs 80-130 lbs. However, there is some overlap in size between the two breeds. The Cane Corso is classified by the AKC as a working dog, while the Presa Canario is not officially recognized. Both are muscular, powerful dogs originally bred for guarding livestock. The Cane Corso may have a slight edge in size, but both breeds can be imposing in stature.
Cane Corso Size
The Cane Corso is a large, muscular dog breed developed in Italy to guard property and hunt big game. Here are some key facts about their size:
- Height: 22-27 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 88-110 pounds
- Males tend to be larger than females
- Classified as a working dog breed by AKC
Some key traits of the Cane Corso related to their size:
- Powerful, athletic build
- Heavy bone structure
- Well-muscled neck, chest, and hindquarters
- Large head with muscular jaws
The Cane Corso’s substantial size suits its history as a capable estate guardian that could restrain large livestock or wild boars. Their imposing physical presence can be a strong deterrent to would-be intruders.
Example Cane Corso Heights and Weights
| Cane Corso | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 25-27 inches | 99-110 lbs |
| Female | 23-25 inches | 88-99 lbs |
As shown, male Cane Corsos tend to reach the higher end of the size range for the breed. But there is variation, and some females may be as large or larger than some males. Proper diet, exercise, and genetics influence each dog’s ultimate adult size.
Presa Canario Size
The Presa Canario is a muscular Molosser-type breed that originated in the Canary Islands for farming work and dog fighting. Here are some averages for their size:
- Height: 21-25 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 80-130 pounds
- Males tend to be larger than females
- Not recognized by major kennel clubs
Some key physical traits related to their substantial size:
- Thick, powerful neck
- Broad chest and front legs
- Strong hindquarters for lifting/pulling
- Large, square head with loose skin
The Presa’s build enabled it to drive and hold cattle, and its imposing presence deterred thieves. Their athleticism and power also made them effective fighters.
Example Presa Canario Heights and Weights
| Presa Canario | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 23-25 inches | 100-130 lbs |
| Female | 21-23 inches | 80-110 lbs |
As shown, male Presa Canarios often reach or exceed 100 lbs. But females may have a weight and height comparable to some male Cane Corsos. There is variation within the breed.
Comparison of Size
When comparing the average sizes of the two breeds, the Cane Corso tends to have a slight edge in terms of height and weight.
- Cane Corsos stand 22-27 inches, Presa Canarios 21-25 inches
- Cane Corsos weigh 88-110 lbs, Presa Canarios 80-130 lbs
- Cane Corso males are often over 100 lbs, Presa females sometimes under
- The Cane Corso has a minimum weight of 88 lbs, heavier than some Presas
However, there is considerable overlap between the sizes of the two breeds. Two key points:
- Some Presa Canarios may be taller or heavier than some Cane Corsos
- The Presa has a higher maximum weight, but Cane Corso a higher minimum
Genetics, nutrition, and gender play a big role in which breed will be larger in a given pair. But on the whole, the Cane Corso is slightly taller and heavier.
Why Cane Corsos Are Sometimes Bigger
Some reasons why Cane Corsos tend to be a bit larger than Presa Canarios on average include:
- Cane Corsos have been bred more selectively for performance
- The AKC breed standard emphasizes proper size for Cane Corsos
- Cane Corsos have less variation in size within litters
- Irresponsible breeding has led to undersized Presas
Key factors that have preserved the Cane Corso’s larger stature include:
- Strict breeding selection by Italian breeders
- Close attention to meeting the AKC breed standard
- Less scatter in height and weight within a litter
In contrast, the lack of a breed standard and popularity boom has led to some undersized Presas being bred irresponsibly. But properly bred Presas still achieve impressive size.
Imposing Presence of Both Breeds
While the Cane Corso may have a slight edge in averages, both breeds have an undeniably substantial and imposing presence:
- Their muscular bodies act as deterrents to intruders
- Their large heads and strong jaws convey power
- Their athleticism allows them to effectively guard property
- Their heavy weights enable them to restrain large animals or humans
Some key shared traits that contribute to the domineering aura of both breeds:
- Intimidating head size and shape
- Authoritative, confident stance and gait
- Thick neck and jaws for grappling ability
- Sheer mass from height and weight
While technical size differences exist, both the Cane Corso and Presa Canario deliver an imposing, powerful presence that deters trouble. Their physiques complement their protective temperaments.
Conclusion
When comparing the Presa Canario vs. Cane Corso in size, the Cane Corso does tend to be slightly larger on average in terms of height and weight. Male Cane Corsos often reach over 100 lbs, while some female Presa Canarios remain under this. However, there is considerable overlap between the sizes of the two breeds. Some Presas will be taller and heavier than some Corsos. Both deliver imposing frames that suit their roles as guardian breeds. Proper breeding, nutrition, and genetics determine which breed or individual dog reaches the greater size. While the Cane Corso may have a slight edge statistically, both breeds embody intimidating mass and power.