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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Perro de Presa Canario
The Perro de Presa Canario (Canarian Dog of Prey) is a large, heavy, mastiff-type
dog. The head is massive, shaped like a cube and has a slight furrow. The skull
is broad and slightly domed. The muzzle forms a smaller cube that tapers just slightly
from stop to nose. The top lip should fall naturally over the lower without excessive
flews. The teeth should meet in a scissors or reverse scissors bite. The nose is
wide and black. The eyes are oval, set level and wide apart and are usually medium
to dark brown. The medium ears are set just above the line of the eye and can either
be cropped or natural. The neck is thick and muscular. It has loose folds of skin
at the throat forming a slight dewlap. The shoulders are muscular and well laid
back and the chest is broad and deep. The hindquarters of this breed are powerful
and well-muscled. The feet are round and cat-like. The tail is an extension of the
topline and is thick at the base and tapers to a point. The short, flat, single
coat has a harsh texture. Colors include any shade of fawn, black and brindle. The
face must have a black or dark brown mask.
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Temperament
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The Perro de Presa Canario is a calm, attentive and gentle breed. They get along
great with children but care should be taken when they are around other dogs. They
are dog aggressive with same-sex dogs but will get along with dogs of the opposite
sex as long as the other dog is submissive. They make excellent watchdogs and guard
dogs and will defend to the death. This devoted family dog can be difficult to train
as they can be stubborn and dominant. The Perro needs early training and socialization
or once grown, may become difficult to handle and show aggression towards any stranger.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 23-26" ; Female Height: 22-25"
Weight: 84-135 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Perro de Presa Canario is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as entropion,
epilepsy, mange, hypothyroidism, luxating patellas and Wobbler syndrome.
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Living Conditions
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The Perro can live fine in either an urban environment or on a farm. They enjoy
the outdoors and will do best with a large, securely fenced yard.
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Exercise
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This breed only needs a moderate amount of exercise. They should be walked daily
and always on a leash.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-14 years
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Grooming
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The Perro is easy to groom. A weekly brushing is all that it needs.
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Origin
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The Perro de Presa Canario is from the Canary Islands, Spain and is crossed between
the Bulldog, Mastiff and native Bardino Majero dogs. They are believed to have been
brought to the Canary Islands by the Spanish conquistadors. They served as guardians
of the farmlands, helped to catch and hold cattle and rid the farmers of wild or
stray dogs. This breed saw a decline during the 1940s, but was revived during the
1970s. They are recognized by the FCI and the UKC, and have been accepted for recording
in the AKC Foundation Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Working, UKC Guardian
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