Canary Dog Breed information & Pictures

Canary Dog Breed Description

Life Expectancy
9-11 years

Learning Rate
Medium

Litter Size
7 to 9

Size
Huge

Weight
Dogs: 95-110 pounds
Bitches: 80-90 pounds

Height
Dogs: 21-25 inches
Bitches: 20-23 inches

Country of Origin
Canary Islands

Groups
FCI Group II.: Pinscher and Schnauzer- Molossoid Breeds - Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs

Other Names
Presa Canario, Perro de Presa Canario, Dogo Canario

The Canary Dog or Presa Canario ancestry probably includes the now extinct naive and indigenous Bardino Majero, crossed with imported English Mastiffs. It was developed in the Canary Islands in the 1800’s specifically for dog fighting.

At one time dog fighting was a common and popular entertainment in most European countries, and breeds were developed specially for their tenacity and endurance. In some countries, such as Ireland, fights were staged in open fields, but more often, as was the case in the Canary Islands, fighting took place in rings or pits.

With the outlawing of dog-fighting on the island and the introduction of foreign dogs such as the German Shepherd Dog, by the 1960s the breed was nearly extinct. It was revived by the American veterinarian Dr. Carl Semencic.

Temperament

The Canary Dog requires a very dominant, experienced owner who understands the alpha nature in canines. The Canary Dog must know that his master is in control of him. No member of the family can be uncomfortable around the dog. Presa Canario dogs make outstanding guard dogs.

Their appearance is a deterrent not to mention their ability to confront any intruder. In the wrong hands this dog can be dangerous, but with the right owner it can make a nice, devoted companion. This is not a breed for first time dog owners. It is a very aggressive natured dog.

Colors

Fawn or brindle of any shade; white markings are accepted. The face must have a black or dark brown mask that does not extend over the eyes, with or without a white blaze or patch on the head.

Coat

The short, rough coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and wipe over with a piece of toweling or chamois for a gleaming finish. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Health Issues

As a large breed, the Presa Canario can be susceptible to hip dysplasia. To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints. Otherwise there are no common ailments. To minimize the risk of your Canary Dog developing any hereditary health issues, you should buy a puppy from a reputable Canary Dog breeder.

Living Environment

This is quite a large breed, and requires plenty of space. It is not impossible for it to live in an apartment as it is calm indoors. But they do have lively natures, so a yard will be preferable and they need to be outside for at least an hour everyday.