Are you considering getting a Perro de Presa Canario as a pet? If so, you may be interested in learning more about this unique and powerful breed. The Perro de Presa Canario, also known as the Canary Mastiff, is a large and muscular dog that is known for its loyalty and protective nature. Originating from the Canary Islands, this breed was originally used for guarding livestock and property. While they can be intimidating to some, Perro de Presa Canarios can make wonderful pets for the right owner. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of this breed and what you need to know before bringing one into your home.
Breed Category: Working
Country of Origin: Canary Islands, Spain
Average Size:60-66 cm (at the shoulder)
Average Weight:50-59 kg
Average Life Span: 9-11 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High
History and Origin
The Perro de Presa Canario, also known as the Canary Mastiff, is a large and powerful breed of dog that originated in the Canary Islands. The breed was developed for various purposes, including guarding livestock, hunting wild boar, and even as a fighting dog. The history of the Perro de Presa Canario is a fascinating one, with a mix of different influences that have shaped the breed into what it is today.
The origins of the Perro de Presa Canario can be traced back to the 15th and 16th centuries, when the Spanish conquistadors brought various breeds of dogs to the Canary Islands. These dogs were used for hunting and guarding, and over time, they interbred with the local dogs on the islands. The result was a powerful and versatile breed that was well-suited to the harsh conditions of the Canary Islands.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Perro de Presa Canario was used primarily as a fighting dog. This was a brutal and illegal activity, but it was also a way for the breed to prove its strength and courage. However, as the sport of dog fighting became more and more frowned upon, the breed began to be used for other purposes, such as guarding and herding.
In the early 20th century, the Perro de Presa Canario was almost extinct. However, a group of enthusiasts began to work to revive the breed, and by the 1970s, it had regained its popularity. Today, the Perro de Presa Canario is recognized by the American Kennel Club and is a popular breed in many parts of the world.
One of the most distinctive features of the Perro de Presa Canario is its size and strength. These dogs can weigh up to 130 pounds and stand up to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a muscular build and a powerful jaw, which makes them excellent guard dogs. However, they are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners.
Another interesting aspect of the Perro de Presa Canario is its appearance. These dogs have a short, dense coat that can be a variety of colors, including black, fawn, and brindle. They also have a distinctive head shape, with a broad skull and a strong jaw. This gives them a
Size and Breed Category
The Perro de Presa Canario is a large and powerful breed of dog that originated in the Canary Islands. They are classified as a molosser breed, which means they have a solid and muscular build with a short, thick coat. The average weight of a male Perro de Presa Canario is between 50-59 kg, while females typically weigh between 40-50 kg. They stand at an average height of 58-66 cm for males and 54-64 cm for females.
The breed is known for its strong and imposing appearance, with a broad head and powerful jaws. Their coat can come in a variety of colours, including fawn, brindle, black, and silver. The Perro de Presa Canario was originally bred for working purposes, such as guarding livestock and property. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs, but require a firm and consistent hand in training. Due to their size and strength, they are not recommended for inexperienced dog owners.
Fur Length and Colour
The fur of the Perro de Presa Canario is typically short and dense, with a smooth texture. The breed’s coat can come in a variety of colours, including black, fawn, brindle, and silver. Some dogs may also have white markings on their chest or feet. The fur is usually glossy and shiny, giving the dog a sleek appearance. The breed’s coat is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hair and keep the coat looking healthy.
The length of the fur on the Perro de Presa Canario can vary slightly depending on the individual dog, but it is generally considered to be short. This makes the breed well-suited to warmer climates, as the short fur helps to keep the dog cool. The breed’s fur is also relatively water-resistant, which can be useful for dogs that enjoy swimming or spending time outdoors in wet conditions. Overall, the Perro de Presa Canario’s fur is an important part of its appearance and contributes to the breed’s distinctive look.
Termperament and Trainability
The Perro de Presa Canario is a breed of dog that is known for its strong temperament. They are confident and assertive, which can make them a challenge to train for inexperienced owners. However, with proper socialization and training, they can become loyal and obedient companions. It is important to note that this breed requires a firm and consistent hand in training, as they can be stubborn and independent. They are also protective of their family and territory, which can make them wary of strangers. Overall, the Perro de Presa Canario requires an experienced and dedicated owner who can provide them with the proper training and socialization they need to thrive.
In terms of trainability, the Perro de Presa Canario is a highly intelligent breed that is capable of learning a wide range of commands and tasks. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. However, it is important to note that this breed can be sensitive to harsh training methods, which can lead to fear and aggression. Therefore, it is recommended that owners use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and play to motivate and reward their dogs during training sessions. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, the Perro de Presa Canario can become a well-trained and obedient companion.
Known Health Conditions
Perro de Presa Canario is a breed of dog that is known to be prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that affect this breed is hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. Perro de Presa Canario may also suffer from elbow dysplasia, which is a similar condition affecting the elbow joint. This can cause lameness and difficulty in movement. Other orthopedic problems that may affect this breed include patellar luxation, osteochondritis dissecans, and cruciate ligament rupture.
Another health condition that is common in Perro de Presa Canario is gastric torsion, also known as bloat. This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood supply to the organs. Symptoms of bloat include restlessness, drooling, and a distended abdomen. Other health issues that may affect this breed include allergies, skin problems, and eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. It is important for owners of Perro de Presa Canario to be aware of these health conditions and to seek veterinary care if their dog shows any signs of illness or discomfort.
Openness to Strangers
Perro de Presa Canario is a powerful and muscular breed of dog that originated in the Canary Islands. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature towards their owners. However, when it comes to strangers, their behavior can be unpredictable. Some Perro de Presa Canarios are friendly and welcoming towards strangers, while others can be aggressive and territorial. It is important to socialize them from a young age to ensure they are comfortable around new people and situations.
Perro de Presa Canarios are not recommended for first-time dog owners or families with young children. They require an experienced owner who can provide them with proper training and socialization. They are not a breed that can be left alone for long periods of time and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Overall, the Perro de Presa Canario is a loyal and protective breed that can make a great companion for the right owner.
Playfulness Level
The Perro de Presa Canario is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. Whether it’s playing fetch, chasing after a ball, or simply running around in the backyard, these dogs are always up for a good time. They are also highly social animals and love to interact with their owners and other dogs. This makes them a great choice for families with children or other pets. Overall, the Playfulness Level of the Perro de Presa Canario is high, and they are sure to bring a lot of joy and laughter to any household.
Despite their large size, the Perro de Presa Canario is a very agile and athletic breed of dog. They are known for their love of physical activity and their ability to perform a wide range of tasks. Whether it’s running, jumping, or climbing, these dogs are always up for a challenge. They are also highly intelligent animals and love to learn new things. This makes them a great choice for owners who are looking for a dog that can keep up with their active lifestyle. Overall, the Playfulness Level of the Perro de Presa Canario is high, and they are sure to provide their owners with endless hours of entertainment and companionship.
Suitability as a Pet for Children
Perro de Presa Canario is a muscular and powerful dog that requires an experienced owner who can provide proper training and socialization. They are loyal and protective of their family, but can be wary of strangers. Due to their size and strength, they may not be suitable for families with young children or elderly individuals who may not be able to handle them. However, with the right training and socialization, they can make great pets for older children who can handle their size and energy. It is important to note that they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Exercise Needs
Perro de Presa Canario is a powerful and athletic breed that requires a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. These dogs have a high energy level and need daily exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. A minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day is recommended, which can include brisk walks, jogging, or playing fetch. Additionally, they enjoy activities that challenge their intelligence and problem-solving skills, such as agility training or obedience classes. It is important to note that this breed should not be over-exercised, especially during hot weather, as they are prone to heatstroke.
In addition to physical exercise, Perro de Presa Canario also requires mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. These dogs are intelligent and enjoy learning new things, so training sessions can be an excellent way to provide mental stimulation. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy activities that challenge their problem-solving skills. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and obedience training can all be effective ways to provide mental stimulation. It is important to note that this breed can be stubborn and independent, so training should be consistent and firm but never harsh or aggressive.
Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family
Perro de Presa Canarios have a reputation for being dominant and territorial. This can make it difficult for them to get along with other pets, especially if they are not socialized properly. However, with proper training and socialization, it is possible for them to coexist peacefully with other animals. It is important to supervise interactions between a Perro de Presa Canario and other pets, especially during the initial introduction period. Additionally, it is important to provide each pet with their own space and resources to prevent any potential conflicts.
Housing Requirements
Perro de Presa Canario is a powerful and muscular breed that requires a spacious and secure living environment. They need a minimum of 30 square meters of outdoor space to run and play. The outdoor area should be fenced and have a high wall to prevent them from escaping. The fence should be at least 1.8 meters high, and the gate should be secure and locked at all times. The breed is not suitable for apartment living as they need plenty of space to exercise and release their energy. They also require a comfortable indoor space to rest and sleep. The indoor area should be well-ventilated and have enough space for them to move around freely. A comfortable bed and a few toys will keep them happy and entertained.
Perro de Presa Canario is a breed that thrives on human companionship and needs to be around their family. They are not suitable for homes where they will be left alone for long periods. The breed is known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs. However, they need to be socialized from an early age to prevent aggression towards strangers. The breed is sensitive to extreme temperatures and should not be left outside in hot or cold weather for extended periods. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. A daily walk and playtime in the garden will help them burn off excess energy and prevent destructive behavior.
Summary
The Perro de Presa Canario is a dog breed that requires an experienced owner who can provide them with proper training and socialization. They are not suitable for first-time dog owners or families with young children. These dogs are known for their strong-willed and dominant personalities, which can make them difficult to handle if not properly trained. Additionally, they require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. Overall, the Perro de Presa Canario is a challenging but rewarding pet for the right owner.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog FAQS
Perro de Presa Canarios can be aggressive towards other dogs if they are not socialized properly.
Perro de Presa Canarios can be stubborn and require a firm and consistent training approach.
Perro de Presa Canarios can be good with children if they are socialized properly and trained from a young age.
Perro de Presa Canarios can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and gastric torsion.
Yes, Perro de Presa Canarios shed moderately throughout the year.
Perro de Presa Canarios have an average lifespan of 9-11 years.
Perro de Presa Canarios need at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day.
Perro de Presa Canarios should be groomed at least once a week to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
A Perro de Presa Canario can grow up to 66-71 cm in height.
The average weight of a Perro de Presa Canario is between 40-65 kg.
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Helena is aSenior Associate Veterinarian at Kleintierpraxis Wandsbek and an avid dog breed author.