Great Pyrenees vs Cane Corso
Size Category
Medium
Ideal For
Various Households
Maintenance Level
Low
Size Category
Medium
Ideal For
First-time Owners, Active People
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Great Pyrenees might be better if you:
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
Cane Corso might be better if you:
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees, also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, is a large, majestic breed recognized for its striking white coat and gentle demeanor. They are characterized by their impressive size, typically weighing between 85 to 115 pounds, and standing 25 to 32 inches tall at the shoulder. Their dense, double coat is weather-resistant, making them well-suited for colder climates. The breed is known for its calm and patient temperament, often displaying a sense of independence and a protective nature. Great Pyrenees are devoted to their families and are particularly good with children. They can be aloof with strangers but are generally gentle and affectionate towards those they know. This breed requires regular grooming due to its thick fur, and they thrive in environments where they can have ample space to roam and explore. Their intelligence and strong instinct to protect make them excellent guard dogs, especially for livestock.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a large and powerful breed known for its strong muscular build and protective nature. It has a short coat that can come in various colors, including black, fawn, and brindle. The breed typically stands between 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 88 to 120 pounds. Cane Corsos are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families, making them excellent companions and guardians. They are intelligent and trainable, but require consistent and firm leadership. Socialization from an early age is essential to ensure they grow up to be well-mannered dogs. Cane Corsos are often reserved with strangers but are affectionate with their loved ones, displaying a natural protectiveness that makes them effective watchdogs.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Good with children
Good with children
Good with Other Dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Moderate shedding level
Light shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Moderately trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Moderately energetic breed
Very energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Great Pyrenees
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush coat at least once a week to prevent matting.
Feeding
Provide fresh water daily and monitor food intake.
Health Care
Check ears regularly for dirt and debris.
Cane Corso
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet formulated for large breeds.
Health Care
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush coat at least once a week to prevent matting.
Grooming
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide fresh water daily and monitor food intake.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet formulated for large breeds.
Health Care
Check ears regularly for dirt and debris.
Health Care
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Additional Care Notes
Great Pyrenees
- •Regularly clean teeth to prevent dental issues.
Cane Corso
- •Socialize with other pets and people to promote good behavior.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees require consistent, positive reinforcement training starting from a young age. Focus on basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash walking. Socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults. Use treats and praise to encourage good behavior, and be patient as they can be independent thinkers.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness and a strong independent nature
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
- •Difficulty in recall due to their guarding instincts
- •Socialization issues with other pets or unfamiliar people
- •Resistance to leash training, preferring to roam
Cane Corso
Cane Corsos require consistent, positive reinforcement training that begins in puppyhood. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught using treats and praise. Socialization with other dogs and people is crucial to prevent aggression and fearfulness. Short training sessions are recommended to maintain their focus and interest.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness
- •High energy levels
- •Protective instincts
- •Prey drive
- •Separation anxiety
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees require consistent, positive reinforcement training starting from a young age. Focus on basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash walking. Socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults. Use treats and praise to encourage good behavior, and be patient as they can be independent thinkers.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness and a strong independent nature
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
- •Difficulty in recall due to their guarding instincts
- •Socialization issues with other pets or unfamiliar people
- •Resistance to leash training, preferring to roam
Cane Corso
Cane Corsos require consistent, positive reinforcement training that begins in puppyhood. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught using treats and praise. Socialization with other dogs and people is crucial to prevent aggression and fearfulness. Short training sessions are recommended to maintain their focus and interest.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness
- •High energy levels
- •Protective instincts
- •Prey drive
- •Separation anxiety
Training Resources
Great Pyrenees Training Guide
Cane Corso Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Great Pyrenees Breeders
Find Cane Corso Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.