The Presa Canario and Pitbull are both big, strong breeds, and they both do have a reputation for being potentially aggressive dogs. Despite the reputation, both breeds can make good family pets as long as they get plenty of socialization, training, and a loving family life.

However, while there are similarities between the two breeds, there are differences. Both are strong dogs, but the Presa Canario is considerably larger than the Pitbull. The Presa Canario is harder to come by and, as a result, can cost more than the Pitbull. But, when it comes down to choosing which is the best breed for you, most potential owners will choose the Presa Canario if they are looking for a guard dog or watch dog while potential family pet hunters will opt for the Pitbull.

In any case, you should check local laws. Countries like the UK ban both breeds, and there are other countries and states with similar rules.

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Presa Canario Overview

The Presa Canario, or Perro de Preso Canario to give its full name, comes from the Canary Islands where it was bred to work with livestock. As well as working the livestock, the dogs were also used as livestock guardians which meant that they would have protected animals from wild predators. They were also used in dog fighting and while the breed’s popularity died down with the prohibition of dog fighting in the 1940s, the breed was resurrected, and its popularity improved again from the 1980s.

Appearance

The Presa Canario is sometimes referred to as the Canary Mastiff. It is a Mastiff breed and has a similar look to other similar breeds. It is a giant breed that can weigh as much as 120 pounds or more. It will typically have a coat that combines several colors including black, brown, tan, and silver. It looks sleek and shiny.

Personality

Having been bred to tend livestock and patrol fields, the Presa Canario is a very independent dog. It can be given a job to do and left to get on with it. But this does mean that if it doesn’t have a job to perform, it will likely look for its own tasks. The independent streak can also make training a challenge and may lead to some falling out over roles and requirements.

The strength and size of the dog alone mean that it is not generally a suitable breed to have around small children, and this is especially true if the dog does not get the socialization and training it craves. Similarly, it should not be kept in households with other, smaller pets, either.

Training

Early socialization is vital for this breed. The dog needs to understand that new people and new dogs and other animals are not a threat to them or you. Socialization as a puppy lays the groundwork for this, and continued socialization will reinforce it. Training should also be undertaken from a young age. Although the breed may not do well in agility, it can excel in other canine sports, especially those that take advantage of the breed’s massive frame and incredible strength.

Health & Care

Hip and elbow dysplasia are common in breeds of this size, including the Presa Canario, so ensure that the puppy’s parents have had the appropriate screening tests done. Other common complaints include bloat and osteochondritis dissecans. However, when it comes to general care, the Presa Canario is easy to look after. A weekly brush will ensure the dog’s coat looks in great condition, but you will need to brush their teeth at least three times a week and clean their ears out regularly.

Suitable For:

Working farms and owners that have tasks they can give to the Presa Canario. Not suitable for novice owners or those with young children or small pets.

Pitbull Overview

Pitbulls have a checkered history and tend to polarize opinions when it comes to discussions of potentially dangerous breeds. They were originally bred for a “sport” called bull baiting, where dogs were put in a ring with a bull and had to try and wear the bull down until it passed out or died. When the sport was banned, Pitbulls were then used for dog fighting. While dog fighting has been banned in most countries, it still goes on underground, and because of the Pitbull’s ferocious and tenacious attitude, it is still used in this way.

However, the breed can make a loving and loyal family pet that will get along with children and all other family members.

Appearance

The Pitbull is not as large as the Presa Canario but it is strong and muscly. It has a square jaw, a large chest, and a strong mouth. It can come in a wide variety of colors and patterns from red to black and white.

Personality

Although they do have a reputation for being aggressive, Pitbulls tend to be very good with people. Even when they were bred for fighting bulls or dogs, they had to be easy to handle by their owners, which meant that biting humans was not tolerated. However, the breed can be aggressive with other dogs, especially those of the same breed and same sex. Their love of their family can lead to them being fiercely loyal, though, and some owners, in the past, have used this to their advantage.

Training

Like the Presa Canario, Pitbulls need socialization and training from a young age. Socialization is especially important because it will teach the Pitbull that strangers do not pose a threat to their family, who they will guard if they feel there is a threat. Training gives the dog something to keep its mind active and it will enable you to take control of any situation.

Pitbulls can do quite well in agility, and they excel in other canine sports, too.

Health & Care

Hip dysplasia is a common problem in Pitbulls, just as it is in Presa Canarios. This breed is also prone to heart complaints as well as hypothyroidism and allergies are common. Weekly brushing should be ample to keep the coating looking good. Brush teeth at least three times a week, ensure nails are kept trimmed, check inside the ears when you are brushing the coat, and look for signs of reddening and swelling.

Suitable For:

Families and owners that want a loyal dog, and that can provide lots of socialization, training, and exercise.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Presa Canarios and Pitbulls are banned in some countries, but with good socialization, training, and handling, they can both make good dogs for the right handlers. While the Presa Canario tends to be best when kept as a working guard dog or watchdog, the Pitbull can make an excellent, loyal, and loving family dog.

There is a stigma attached to both breeds, however, so potential owners may need to be prepared for questions from strangers.

• See Also: Labrador vs Pitbull: The Differences (With Pictures)

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Featured Image Credit: Top – tsik, Shutterstock | Bottom – Lunja, Shutterstock