Tibetan Mastiff vs Cane Corso

Tibetan Mastiffs are independent introverts who tend to be wary of strangers but are loving and loyal to their people. Though personality can vary from one dog to the next, these dogs tend to be headstrong guardians who often think they know what’s best and view themselves more as equal partners than pets.

Without proper socialization from the time they’re a puppy, a Tibetan Mastiff will become aggressive toward strangers and other dogs. But with plenty of exposure to different people, pets and situations throughout their lives, they’ll be more accepting, though still aloof and standoffish, reserving their affection for loved ones and their aggression for predators.

Pet parents need to be diligent about working with their pup to prevent biting tendencies brought on by resource guarding, territoriality or overprotectiveness. They have a bite force of 500 pounds, stronger than that of an American Pit Bull Terrier or German Shepherd, so even a playful bite could do major damage.

Tibetan Mastiff puppies can be taught to get along well with children and other pets when raised with them, but as adults, they may be less accepting of new dogs or other people’s children, so you probably won’t be able to entertain a lot of house guests with one of these dogs around. And their sheer size and strength make it risky to allow even well-socialized Tibetans to be around young children, cats or small dogs.

Their bossy natures make them a bad fit for obedience competitions, and they’re not built for agility or speed. But give these dogs some sheep, goats or cattle to guard, and watch them excel. Guarding livestock is hardwired into their DNA, and they’re at their best and happiest when they’re allowed to be watchful protectors over their domain.

You’ll never get bored with a Cane Corso around—you simply won’t have time for it. The training, socialization and exercise needs of this breed will keep you busy throughout their whole life. This is a working breed who was bred to be a guard dog. With members of their own household, Corsos can be affectionate companions, but that’s about as far as the Cane Corso’s friendliness goes. These are sensitive, serious and intensely loyal dogs. They’re naturally alert to new people coming to the house and may show aggression toward strangers—both two- and four-legged—if not properly trained and socialized.

Properly trained and socialized Cane Corsos will be calm and confident. They should ignore strangers and animals who pose no threat to themselves or their people, saving their aggression for legit threats. Thankfully, their high intelligence makes it easy to teach them the difference.