Alternative Names: Perro de presa canario, dogo canario
Country of Origin: Canary Islands
History: This dog is native to the Canary Islands, which include Tenerife and Gran Canaria. It is believed to descend from a cross of mastiffs and native cattle dogs. It was popular in its native land during the 16th century when it was used as a guard and for driving cattle.
Physical Description: The presa canario is a large, strong, and muscular dog that is longer than it is tall. It has a massive head which is covered with loose skin creating wrinkles. It has a short muzzle and wide, black nose. The oval, medium-sized eyes are medium to dark chestnut. The medium size ears are naturally drop or rose, or cropped erect. There is a wide chest and thick, natural, sabrelike tail. The skin is thick and loose, especially at the head, and covered with a short, flat single coat. It is brindle or fawn with a dark mask.
Height: 22 to 25.5 inches
Weight: 88 to 110 pounds
Temperament: This is a calm, attentive, confident, and even-keeled dog. It is gentle and affectionate with family, including children, but wary with strangers. It is aloof. It generally gets along with submissive dogs of the opposite sex.
Activity Level: Moderate
Best Owner: It does well with a dog-experienced family or individual in a rural or suburban home.
Special Needs: Fenced yard, firm but positive training, leashed, socialization, supervision with other animals.
Possible Health Concerns: entropion, epilepsy, demodectic mange, hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, OCD, luxating patellas, wobbler syndrome
