The Presa Canario, also known as the Canary Dog, is a Spanish dog breed originating from the Canary Islands . It is a robust, strong, and large hunting dog, originally bred to guard livestock and later introduced into our society as a companion animal. It is a guardian and protector, very loyal to its owner.
Due to its strong and imposing appearance, the Presa Canario has traditionally gained a bad reputation as an aggressive and dangerous dog, but nothing could be further from the truth. With proper training, it is one of the most docile, affectionate, and loyal dogs you can find. If you're wondering, "What is a Presa Canario?" and want to learn more about this endearing breed, stay with us to discover much more.
History of the presa canario: origin and consolidation of the breed
The first official records of this breed date back to the early 16th century in the Canary Islands archipelago. Apparently, a nobleman of the time, the Cabildo of Tenerife, ordered the elimination of almost all the Bardino dogs from the islands, as they were causing considerable damage to livestock and thus harming the local livestock industry. Only butchers were allowed to keep a pair of these dogs to assist them in transporting cattle and general livestock care , since those that were well-trained performed a positive function with these animals.
During that period (16th century onwards), the Canary Islands became a focus of interest for many conquerors from around the world. Ships arrived from various countries carrying not only people but also dogs, some of which remained on the islands once ashore. Many of these dogs were English Mastiffs , Spanish Alanos , and Spanish Presa Canarios , which contributed to the development of new local breeds through crossbreeding.
The British, in addition to their dogs, brought with them the custom of holding dog fights, and from then on, dogs with "more aggressive characteristics" began to be selected for this bloody occupation. They began crossing Majorero and Bardino dogs with other fighting dogs such as the Bulldog , the Mastiff , and the Bull Terrier . Thus, a new breed appeared, the Dogo Canario or Perro de Presa Canario , as we know it today.
Thus, the Canary Mastiff's popularity grew as a result of dog fighting, although it continued to be used for farm work and guarding estates. After the ban on using these animals for fighting, they nearly became extinct. However, in the 70s, a local recovery began, and the Presa Canario was recognized as native heritage of the Canary Islands. The breed was officially registered in 2001. Since then, the Presa Canario has become the official symbol of the Canary Islands.
What is the presa canario? Physical characteristics according to the FCI
The Dogo Canario ( Canis lupus familiaris) is classified by weight in the large dog breed category by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale). It is a robust and well-proportioned dog with a strong and powerful appearance.
As in all animal species, there is sexual dimorphism, according to which we find physical and functional differences in each sex: female Presa Canario dogs weigh between 40 and 55 kg, and their height at the withers is 56-62 cm, while male specimens weigh about 50-65 kg and their height at the withers is 60-66 cm.
The coat color recognized in the official breed is dark brown brindle with a black mask (referring to the color of the face and muzzle), sometimes with white markings at the base of the neck, chest and feet.
Does the black canary presa exist?
The truth is, no, the official breed standard described by the FCI only recognizes the brindle coat pattern for the Presa Canario. It is true that there are black and white (which is actually cream, blond, or sandy) variants of the breed that are called "black Presa Canario" or "white Presa Canario." Their features are practically identical, but technically they don't belong to the breed standard. Apparently, the "black Presa Canario" is in high demand among customers interested in acquiring a dog with these characteristics, so it is marketed as a "black Presa Canario" (and the same for the white one).
The standard measurements and other characteristics of the Presa Canario are described by the FCI in the official breed data sheet shown below.
| Denomination: Presa canario / Dogo canario |
| Origin: Canary islands spain |
| Talla: Grande |
| Life expectancy: 10-12 years |
| Weight: Male: 50-65 kg Female: 40-55 kg |
| Hair type: Corto |
| Character: watchful, alert, faithful |
| Cap: Brindle with black mask. Sometimes white markings on the base of the neck, chest and feet |
| withers height: Male: 59-66 cm Female: 55-62 cm |
| General ranking: Large dog breeds |
| Classification according to the FCI: Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossian, and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs |
- El body of the presa canario has a length that exceeds its height at the withers. Is strong, with a broad and strong chest, of developed pectorals and well defined, so that the chest reaches the height of the elbow or at least is close.
- Su cabeza it is relatively big solid, with a shorter muzzle compared to the total volume of the skull, which is why it is "flatter" than other canine relatives with a "sharper" face such as the German shepherd or the Siberian husky, for example. The muzzle is broad at the base. and it decreases in thickness as it advances towards the nose. The face is dark, it is said that these dogs are of “black mask”, so that its entire face - including the snout and nose (nose) - up to the level of the eyes, is brown. The skin on the face is loose forming some wrinkles on the forehead when attentive or alert and a slight chin hangs from his neck.
- The eyes from the canary presa are round, they are not sunken or droopy. They are usually colored medium brown or dark brown, but never yellow or light according to the official characteristics described for this breed by the FCI.
- Its ears are quite separated from each other and falls to the sides naturally although sometimes they are cut for functional or aesthetic reasons.
- La tail is average length reaching almost to the hock (joint of the hind legs that joins the upper and lower part). When the presa canario is in action, its tail is raised like a saber, contributing to its balance and agility in its movements.
- La leather of the body It is flexible and somewhat loose. especially in the head and neck area. His hair is short and wiry-looking, dark brown brindle., although other shades of gray or blonde tabby and white markings on the chest are acceptable.
- La Life expectancy of the canary prey It is 10 to 11 years.
Temperament: Is the Presa Canario a dangerous dog?
Spanish legislation, established in Royal Decree 287/2002, includes the Presa Canario on the list of potentially dangerous breeds . The strong and vigorous nature of these dogs requires their owners to have liability insurance and to keep them leashed and muzzled at all times in public, among other requirements.
Their predatory nature is undeniable, and we must take responsibility for the aforementioned measures, but this should never induce any fear towards these dogs, as with proper training and education they are adorable companion animals . In fact, their imposing presence and strength have traditionally led them to be considered aggressive and dangerous dogs, but nothing could be further from the truth.
The Presa Canario has a calm and balanced temperament . Due to its centuries-long role guarding livestock, it possesses a strong guardian instinct , making it very protective and loyal to its "pack" (in this case, the home it shares with its owners). Its guardian nature will cause it to be aloof with strangers, but with its owner, it is very loyal, obedient, and docile.
The Presa Canario also shows great affection and care towards children and is able to live with other animals, such as kittens , provided they have been accustomed to them from puppyhood. They are very protective of their owners, displaying great courage in challenging situations (such as a robbery or similar incident).
It should be noted that this strong-willed dog is not for first-time owners. These animals require clear orders and discipline from a leader who knows how to set the rules well. If this is not the case, the dog will occupy the leader position.
Finally, it should be noted that this is a dog with a natural walking instinct ; therefore, to keep it in good physical condition and mental balance, it requires at least one long walk a day. They don't bark much, but when they do, their deep, rasping bark can be intimidating.
Care that the Presa Canario needs
- Feeding: Due to its large size and energy, the Presa Canario will require a good daily caloric intake, recommended through good quality feed. For the same reason, hydration will be essential.
- Physical exercise: long walks a day due to its vigor to keep them in mental and physical balance. Except for this, they are not dogs that require a lot of physical activity. Due to their size, it is recommended to have them in large spaces with a garden or patio and coexistence in small-sized homes is discouraged.
- Hygiene: his short hair requires very little care, it will be enough to brush it once a week and bathe it occasionally. Regularly check eyes, ears and nails as they are areas susceptible to infection.
- Training: it is recommended professional training from puppies for proper socialization and family life.
- Common health and diseases: Presa Canarios are generally in very good health, but there are certain recurring pathologies associated with their large size, such as hip dysplasia and stomach twist. These pathologies are more likely if there are obesity problems, so it is important to avoid it with food and physical exercise.