Weight: 80-130 pounds (36-59 kg.)
Height: 21-25 inches (55-65 cm.)
Coat: short (flat) with no undercoating
Litter Size: 7-9 puppies
Life span: 10-12 years
Description:
The Perro de Presa Canario, A.K.A the "Presa Canario", "Canary Dog", "Canary Mastiff" or "Dogo Canario", is a large sized dog with dense bones, powerful muscles, and thick, elastic skin which is loose in and around the neck. The head is broad, massive, and square. Proper head and good expression are part of the breed standard, and are manifest in the best breed specimens. The ears are normally cropped both to create a more formidable expression, and to prevent damage while working with cattle. If the ears are left un cropped, they are close fitting to the head, hang down and should be pendant or "rose" shaped. The lips are thick and hang in an inverted V where they join; the flews may be slightly loose. The interior lips are dark. Fairly easy to groom, the harsh coat of this breed does not shed too much and just needs the occasional brushing and bathing.
The breed is also characterized by a sloping topline (with the rear being slightly higher than the shoulders). Another characteristic of the breed is the shape of the paws (cat foot) and the catlike movement of the animal. The body is mesomorphic, that is, slightly longer than the dog is tall, contributing to the feline movement. The Presa should be powerful, balanced, and imposing in appearance. It is heavily built, but able to move with great athleticism. Presas need a good, daily walk to stay mentally and physically fit.
History:
Documentation of the original, holding dogs date back to the XV and XVI centuries. Following the conquest of the Canary Islands it is theorized dogs of great size may have existed or were brought there by the Spanish Conquistadors or possibly both. The Presa Canario is known to be a cross between the Olde English Bulldog, English Mastiff and the fiery Bordino Majerro Cattle Dog. This breed belongs to the Mastiff group and was developed for guarding farms, struggling with cattle and the extermination of wild or stray dogs.
The breed became nearly extinct after dog fighting was outlawed in the 1940's, and was revived in the 1970's with the help of several crosses by various breeders. This period is generally known as the reconstruction of the breed, with atypical specimens becoming less common. Reputable breeders bred strong Presas that were rustic, massive, vigorous, and functional, who had acute watchdog instincts, a strong temperament, calm yet confident and were extremely territorial with unlimited courage.
Full recovery of the Presa Canario heritage started in the year 1982, when a group of breeders from the island of Tenerife formed an association with the goal to propagate the resurgence of the Presa Canario as started in the previous decades. The Club Espanol de Presa Canario ( CEPRC ) was formed incorporating breeders from Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and La Palma. In January 1983, the club was recognized by the REAL CANINE SOCIETY CENTRAL of SPAIN (RSCFRCE). This club's efforts and successes were duly instrumental in bringing forth the many new "Champions of Breed" as judged at the ongoing annual Monographic events, held in the islands and mainland. And now, a renewed interest in the breed has extended into the European continent and the Americas.
Characteristics and Temperament:
The Presa Canario is calm, always alert, balanced and self-confident dog; they require early socialization and obedience training. They are a friend and protector which demand your love and attention. Presas are gentle and extremely loyal to their family, but can be distrustful of strangers. Always keeping a careful eye on potential danger, they are famous for their natural instinct for guarding. A significant requirement is a dominant owner who can understand the alpha nature of these canines. Famous as the “Gentlest Giant” this dog alone is enough to make you feel safe and secure.
Health Issues:
The Presa Canario is a relatively healthy breed. Most common health disorder: hip dysplasia (joint problem), demodicosis, entropion.
Events:
Presa Canarios can now participate in agility trials, weight pulls, and personal protection events.
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