Presa Canario

The Presa Canario is a poised, calm, and loyal dog. They can be considered universal pets because they are great defenders of the territory, guards of the house, and companions for the owner. Quickly become attached to the family, gentle with children. The Presa Canario always tries to perform his protective duties.

Breed Photos

Origin History

For a long time, dogs were known only within their homeland – in Tenerife and Gran Canaria (islands of the Canary archipelago). There they were widely used for protection and herding, guarding livestock. They were also actively involved in dogfighting in public.

When the Spaniards invaded the Canary Islands, this harmed the fate of dogs. As herds were wiped out because of the war, the Presa Canarios had nothing to guard and gladiatorial fights.

After the fighting was officially banned, the Presa Canario breed was on the verge of extinction. However, the Spaniards actively began to crossbreed it with other dogs that were not so aggressive.

So in 1986, there was the first Canarian Dog Show in Spain. In 2001, the FCI (Federation Cynologique International) officially approved the breed.

Appearance

The Presa Canario is a large, muscular dog that can strike fear in anyone. They are characterized by sexual dimorphism: males are taller and fatter than females. Males can have 60-66 cm, females 56-62 cm, the permissible variation of 2 cm from normal. Their weight also differs: males have 50-65 kg, and females 40-55 kg.

The body of dogs is long; in bitches it is pronounced. The head is large, comprehensive, covered with skin that hangs down. Usually, the ears are cropped to make the dog look menacing.

The coat is short, harsh to the touch, without an undercoat. It can be gray, pale, bronze, brown. A black mask is formed on the muzzle. It is allowed to have markings on the neck, chest, fingers, but it is desirable that they were not many.

Character

The Presa Canario is a poised, calm, and loyal dog. They can be considered universal pets because they are great defenders of the territory, guards of the house, and companions for the owner.

Quickly become attached to the family, gentle with children. The Presa Canario always tries to perform his protective duties. Even if he is busy doing something, playing or resting, in fact, at any dangerous moment, he will rush into action.

If adequately trained from childhood, the dog will not show aggression in adulthood. It is not inherent to them to bark if there is danger – they may, of course, growl viciously, but more often, they attack without warning.

Despite its fighting qualities, the Presa Canario easily coexists on the same territory with other animals. But it is better if they are smaller and weaker than him. After all, the presence of two large and strong dogs can create competition.

Care

It is worth remembering that the Presa Canario comes from warm islands. Therefore, it is better to keep them at home in winter and to wear unique winter clothes while walking.

A dog’s coat requires no additional care other than combing it out three times a week. During shedding, the procedure can be repeated daily. It is best to walk your dog in the morning and evening and remember to wear a leash.

Bathe no more than three times a year. Once a week, you should brush your teeth and check your ears, and if there is dirt collecting there, you should gently clean it with a cotton swab.

Training

The Presa Canario must be trained from an early age and preferably with the help of professionals. After all, dogs are characterized by stubbornness, independence, and independence in decision-making. Therefore, without professional training skills, it is impossible to do without it.

The most important thing in training is for the Presa Canario to feel your strong character and authority. They are brilliant and can be sly, trying to avoid following commands in every way. It is vital to notice this and under no circumstances to be fooled by it.

Common Diseases

The Presa Canario has good health but may have hereditary diseases. It is necessary to check his pedigree with a veterinarian from childhood. It is worth watching his nutrition as an adult, as they can often have intestinal blockages due to overeating.

Nutrition

The basis of the diet should be meat. Several times a week, it is worth replacing it with fish or offal. At the same time, give cereals, vegetables, and fruit. Make sure that the dog always has free access to clean drinking water.