Presa Canario History

Origin of the Breed

Since the 16th century, the Presa Canario has been mentioned in documents of the Canary Islands. It is assumed that it was introduced into the Islands by the Conquistadors and Spanish Colonialists. With time and in the isolation it has become a breed in its own right. It is also believed that it has been influenced by other breeds from Great Britain, Cuba, etc.. The Presa Canario is known to be a cross between the Olde English bulldogge, English Mastiff, and the fiery Bordino Majerro Cattle Dog. What is certain is that this dog, of sizeable body and head and extraordinary temperament, has always been used in the Canary Islands to guard farms and cattle.

Standard Form and Character of the Canary Dog

It is an extraordinarily powerful looking dog with a severe gaze. Especially suited to guarding and defense. It is of firm temperament with a grave and deep bark. The Presa Canario (Dogo Canario) is affectionate, docile and well behaved with his owner and family, but fierce with strangers. Independent and aggressive with other dogs, both of his own breed and other breeds. It has been used in the past as an excellent fighting dog. After the banning of dog fighting on the islands, the Canary dog undertook his role in the world as a natural guardian and family companion.

"As a guardian breed with man-stopping ability there is no dog that is more effective than the Canary Dog. It remains and incredibly powerful and fearless animal, it is known for its great devotion to its human family, and it is known to accept children in the home. This is a dog that will stay by its master's side at all times and is never known to stray. This dog is protective by nature and will not hesitate to attack anyone whom it perceives as a threat to its family or home. Such an attack could only be a hopeless situation for any man involved."
Dr. Carl Semencic
Pit Bulls and Tenacious Guard Dogs.