Dogo Canario

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Presa Canarios is also known as Canary Dog, Perro de Presa Canario and Dogo Canario. It is a large working and guardian dog originating in Spanish Canary Islands. This strong-bodied and strong-willed dog was developed in 1800's by crossing of local indigenous dogs with English Mastiffs and English Bulldogs. Original purpose of developing this dog was to obtain a strong and powerful dog suitable for dog fighting. With banning of dog fighting in 1940's, the number of Canary dogs reduced significantly and by 1960's, the breed was almost extinct. An American veterinanian Dr. Carl Semencic revived this breed and saved it from extinction. The dog stands around 23-26 inches and weighs 100 to 160 lbs. Female dogs are slightly lighter and shorter.

The Presa Canarios has a powerful, square head that is nearly as wide as it is long. The muzzle is broad. The chest is deep and broad. The rump is slightly raised. This breed has thick skin, dense bones and powerful muscles and a massive head with a large jaw. The ears are usually cropped. The single coat is short and slightly coarse to touch. Colors include fawn and various brindle, white markings are sometimes seen.

Color

The dog comes in all shades of fawn and brindle with up to 20% white markings allowed on chest, feet and muzzle. Black colour is acceptable for some Kennel clubs and not acceptable for others. Black pigmentation and black mask is must but should not exceed eye area.

Coat

The single coat is short and slightly coarse to touch.

Personality

The Presa Canarios is a powerful, strong and dominant breed that needs early obedience training and socialization. It needs a strong and authoritative owner who not only can establish himself as dog's packleader but also win its confidence. A well socialized and trained dog will get along with other dogs and will not be aggressive towards strangers. It will become calm and gentle with all members of the family specially children. The Canary Dog can be an excellent watch and guard dog. Its protective nature makes it a great guardian of the family. It is not a dog for first time owners as it needs an experienced handler with experience of handling other large dog breeds. A properly trained and socialized Presa Canarios will make an excellent family pet.

Care

The short coat needs minimal grooming and usually only needs brushing once a week.

Training

A firm, confident and stable trainer can train this dominant dog with positive reinforcement techniques.

Activity

Exercise is must for this energetic dog. Daily walks and ample playing time is needed to keep the dog happy and away from boredom.