Presa Canario
Appearance

Presa Canario Quick Summary | |
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Also Known As | Canary Dog |
Origin | Canary Islands |
Lineage | Pedigree |
Size | Large |
Height (at withers) | 21-25in (55-65cm) |
Weight | 80-130lbs (36-59 kg) |
Hair Colour(s) | Fawn, brindle |
Lifespan | 9-11 years |
Energy Level | Medium |
Litter size | 7-9 |
Shedding | Medium |
Grooming | Low |
Barking Tendency | Medium |
Exercise requirements | Medium |
Ease of training | Low |
Suitability for kids | Low |
Animal compatability | Low |
Aggression levels | Medium-high |
Distress if left | Medium |
The Presa Canario is a large and powerful looking dog. The body is heavily built with a broad and deep chest, thick skin, a slightly raised rump and a tapering tail. The massive head is square in shape with a broad dark muzzle, a large jaw and usually cropped ears. The coat is short and flat, and the colouring tends to be fawn or brindle, sometimes with white markings.
Temperament
Presa Canarios are dominant and strong willed animals. Owners need to understand just how pack mentality works and ensure they show absolute dominance with these creatures. Any and all other family members also must not show any discomfort or weakness around these dogs. These are absolutely not suitable for those with little experience in dog ownership and training, as they can be hard to train and can quite simply be dangerous in the wrong hands. All that said, with correct early socialisation and training they can make devoted companions. Presa Canarios are not suited to families with kids as it is just not worth the risk. They can be aggressive toward other dogs and are suspicious of strangers, and they make excellent guard dogs thanks to their imposing presence plus their ability to tackle any intruder.
History & Skills
Presa Canarios originate from the Canary Islands, where they were developed in the 19th Century from dogs such as native Bardino Majeros, now extinct, and English Mastiffs, sadly for the sole purpose of dog fighting. Their Spanish name translates as Canarian Bloodhound. After dogfighting was banned and other foreign dogs such as the German Shepherd were introduced, this breed was almost extinct by the 1960s but was revived in the 1970s.
Breed Specific Ailments
Presa Canarios tend to live between 9-11 years. Some of the health problems noted in this breed includes hip and elbow dysplasia, luxating Patella, Wobbler Syndrome and epilepsy.
Grooming
Presa Canarios are medium shedders and so may not be suited to those suffering with allergies. Their grooming requirements are not high, and their short rough coats will simply need occasional brushing and wiping over with a damp cloth. They can be bathed or dry shampood as required.
Exercise & Environment
Presa Canarios tend to live indoors and can even be suitable for small homes such as apartments if sufficiently exercised. They are fairly inactive indoors and will need a long daily walk plus access to a secure outside area. They tend to prefer warmer climates.
Recognition
![]() | FCI - Federation Cynologique Internationale | |
![]() | The Kennel Club (UK) | |
![]() | AKC - American Kennel Club |
Breed Clubs
Coming soon!
Owners Gallery
Pretty empy right now. If you would like to see you dog here please email a photo to BFD Photos along with your name, your dog's name & age, breed and rough location (please keep image file sizes reasonable!).