Aggressive fighting dog or playful family pet? Opinions about the Presa Canario (known in English as the Canary Dog) are divided. One thing is certain: no dog is born a fighting dog – it is made into one by humans. Thus, it is up to breeders and owners to bring out and foster the many positive traits of the Presa Canario.
As the name suggests, the Presa Canario originates from Spain, specifically the Canary Islands. Its ancestors can be traced back to the Spanish Alano, a dog used in various capacities on the Spanish mainland during the Middle Ages. The Spanish Alano, often generically referred to in ancient texts as “Alano,” was kept for hunting tough game, herding cattle, and guarding property.
This type of dog was also used in traditional bullfights and dog fights. It was particularly valued as a hunting dog that confronted bears, deer, and wild boars fearlessly and uncompromisingly, gaining great popularity among the nobility in the late Middle Ages.
Its reputation as an exceptionally brave “keeper” also led to its use as a so-called war dog, where it was tasked with guarding soldiers’ tents.
Equipped with a spiky armour, it was supposed to infiltrate enemy troops during battles and cause severe injuries to humans and horses. In the 16th and 17th centuries, these formidable dogs accompanied Spanish conquistadors during their conquest of South America.
The Canary Islands, strategically located, served as a stopover for the conquistadors, leading to many of these molossoid dogs arriving on the islands. This laid the genetic foundation for today’s Presa Canario, which likely emerged from crosses between the native island dog “majorero” and the Spanish Alano.
On the Canaries, where there was little to hunt and no battles to fight, the breed was primarily used as a guard dog for farms and livestock. Breeding goals shifted away from hunting instinct and fighting spirit, focusing instead on traits such as high alertness and pronounced nerve strength.
Breeding Then and Now
On the Canary Islands, the Presa Canario is still primarily kept as a farm and guard dog. Its excellent work guarding numerous rural properties has made it so popular that it has even been declared the natural symbol of Gran Canaria by the government. In the 1970s, Spaniards began the systematic breeding of their “national dog”.
By the 1980s, breeding had progressed to the point that various breeding associations were formed, and worldwide exhibitions were organised. The impressive breed soon became known beyond the Canary Islands.
However, there was long-lasting disagreement over its name. Dogs of this type were referred to as Presa Canario, Perro de Presa Canario, Perro de Presa Español, Spanish Bulldog, Canary Dog, or simply Alano.
In 2001, the FCI officially recognised the breed as “Dogo Canario,” attempting to end the name confusion. In early 2019, the FCI replaced the breed name “Dogo Canario” with “Presa Canario.” The request, submitted by the “Real Sociedad Canina de España (RSCE)”, was confirmed on 01.01.2019.
According to the FCI, breeding of the Dogo Canario should prioritise dogs with a balanced and calm character. While it still makes an excellent guard dog thanks to its self-confidence and high alertness, the calmness in its nature also makes the Presa Canario suitable as a family and companion dog.
It is likely this combination of a powerful, almost threatening exterior and a gentle disposition that fascinates people about the Canary Dog and explains the growing demand for this breed.
Beneath its powerful appearance, the Canary Dog is a calm, well-balanced companion with a strong protective instinct
Appearance of the Presa Canario
The Canary Dog is known for its stately, powerful body and the massive, broad, cuboid head characteristic of molosser dogs. With a height at the withers of 61 to 66cm and a maximum weight of 65kg, males present a very imposing figure. Females are also impressive, with a height at the withers of 56 to 62cm and a weight of at least 40kg and up to 55kg.
Its large size and muscular, powerful body command respect from most people. Some may even find it intimidating, especially those unfamiliar with this rare breed and unaware of the friendly nature behind these dogs.
Despite its heavy build, the Presa Canario is far from clumsy or sluggish. Its well-proportioned physique denotes exceptional power and agility. The dog’s movements are agile, smooth, almost graceful. Its body length surpasses the height at the withers, a trait particularly noticeable in females. The head is carried slightly above the backline.
The coat of the Canary Dog comes in varied colours. Its brindle fur can range from a warm dark brown to pale grey and light blond. All shades from fawn to sandy colour are allowed. White markings can appear on the chest, base of the neck, and throat, but breeding standards prefer minimal white. The mask of the Presa Canario is black in all colour variations.
Its short, smooth fur without undercoat is quite rustic and feels harsh. At its ears, which can still be cropped in its homeland Spain, the fur is very short and fine. At the withers and the back of the thighs, it is somewhat longer. The tail, broad at the base and tapering to the end, should not extend beyond the hocks. In a relaxed state, it hangs straight with a slight curve at the tip, but it stands upright when the dog is attentive.
Presa Canario Character
According to the FCI, which lists the Presa Canario under standard number 346 in the molossoid section, aggressive behaviour is considered a disqualifying fault. Aggressive or anxious dogs are thus not permitted for breeding.
At its core, the Canary Dog is a very balanced and calm dog, possessing a pronounced protective instinct that, with appropriate care and consistent training, can be well controlled. Its remarkable nerve strength and self-confidence, combined with its natural wariness of strangers, make it an excellent guard dog.
However, within its family, it is always friendly, obedient, and willing to learn. Despite an intense bond with its owner, it remains loyal and good-natured towards other family members. Once integrated into the family, a Presa Canario will stand by its people for life.
Its sturdy and robust nature makes it an uncomplicated and reliable companion and protector. Its moods and intentions are straightforward; deceit is foreign to it. With its typically loud and deep voice, it likes to express its lively temperament.
From rich dark browns to soft greys and sunlit blondes, the Presa Canario’s brindle coat comes in a stunning variety of shades—each one as unique as the dog itself
Presa Canario Nutrition
The diet of any dog depends on several factors, such as age, weight, or activity level. Additionally, breed and size play a crucial role. Athletic dogs generally have higher energy needs than less active dogs. Dogs with health issues like diabetes also have special dietary requirements. Fresh water should always be available to your feline friends.
BARFing requires a certain level of expertise to ensure the diet meets the dog’s needs. If not done correctly, it can lead to dangerous deficiencies. If in doubt, consult your vet or breeder for advice.
Care and Training
Training should begin as early as possible. Even as puppies, they should understand basic commands and know who is in charge. Early socialisation, which should begin with the breeder, is crucial to teach them to restrain themselves in everyday situations and avoid clashes with people.
Even playfully or out of excitement, a Presa Canario can easily knock a person over due to its large size and immense power. A Presa Canario is not suited for confined living spaces. A dog of its size and temperament requires ample space and plenty of activities. Besides long walks, fetching games or ball games should be part of the daily routine.
If you are considering buying a Canary Dog, ensure you thoroughly research the breed’s care, training, and care needs. A reputable breeder should be able to answer all your questions in detail.
zooplus Editorial Team
The zooplus editorial team consists of a dedicated team of experts with many years of experience in the field of animal husbandry: Luisa with her White Swiss Shepherd Elyos, Laura, Julio, and Florian. Together with a large network of animal experts, we work to make the zooplus magazine a trusted source of information for all animal owners and lovers. Our goal is to provide exciting animal knowledge and relevant information on the proper care of pets.
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