Perro de Presa Canario

General Description:

(Perro de Presa Canario) The Canary Dog is a powerfully built breed with a distinctive, square-shaped head that is almost as wide as it is long. They have a very broad muzzle and large jaw. They have a chest that is deep and raised and a strong build with dense bones. Their rear is slightly raised, and their skin is very thick. They are powerfully muscled, and their ears are usually cropped. The Canary Dog is fawn or brindle in color, and white markings may or may not be present.

Character:

The Canary Dog needs a dominant owner and a family that is not uncomfortable in its presence. This breed is an excellent guard dog because of their intimidating physical appearance and ability to alert their owner(s) and confront intruders. With the proper owner, the Canary Dog makes a loyal, devoted companion. This breed isn’t suitable for first time dog owners. In the wrong hands, the Canary Dog can be aggressive and dangerous.
This breed is very trusting and is a loyal companion. They enjoy a lot of attention from their owners. The Canary Dog can get fairly large and needs space to play and stay active. They can live in apartments but the owner needs to regularly exercise them. The Canary Dog typically lives for 9 to 11 years and also
10-12 years is an average lifespan.

Temperament:

The Presa is a docile, affectionate dog. They are great family protectors and are bred to be family companions as well as guardians. They are distrustful of strangers, but should accept strangers if the owner accepts them. They should be very alert and ready to defend the owner or property if necessary. It is generally a quiet breed but has a very intimidating bark. This breed requires an owner who understands the alpha nature of canines. No member of the family can be uncomfortable around the dog. Canaries make outstanding guard dogs. Just their appearance is a deterrent, not to mention their ability to confront any intruder. As with all guardian type dogs early socialization and obedience training are a must. Occasionally you will have some dog aggression in the Presa Canario, but with proper socialization and training this is the exception and not the rule. The Presa Canario competes and does well in many conformation, obedience, iron dogs, agility, dock diving, schutzhund and other working trials.

Size:

21 – 25 inches

Weight:

80 – 120 pounds and above

History:

It’s believed that the Canary Dog’s ancestry can be attributed to the now extinct Bardino Majero breed. It was initially developed on the Canary Islands in the 1800’s for the purpose of dog fighting. The breed is likely the result of crosses between the Bardino Majero and the English Mastiffs that were imported to the area during that time. When dog fighting was outlawed, the Canary Dog nearly became extinct. A veterinarian by the name of Dr. Carl Semencic is responsible for reviving this breed.

Maintenance:

The short, rough-haired coat of the Canary Dog is easy to groom and maintain. The coat should be brushed with a firm bristle brush and wiped down with a clean towel or chamois. Bathing and dry shampooing should be administered only as necessary. The canary dog is an average shedder.
Ideal Environment

The Canary Dog does best in a home where he has plenty of leadership and training. As with all larger dogs, they should have a large yard and several controlled walks a day.