Breed of the Month--Presa Canario

Perro de Presa Canario

a.k.a  Presa Canario

Color:  All shades of black, brindle, fawn, brown, white markings
Height:  Males:  23-26 inches/  Females:  21.5-25 inches
Weight:  Males:  92.5-110 lbs/ Females:  84-99 lbs
Life Span:  9-12 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Elbow and hip dysplasia, cervical vertebral instability, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, bloat.

Coat:  Short, flat, coarse single coat
Country of Origin:  Spain

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

The name Perro de Presa Canario means "Canary Dog of Prey."  This breed was developed off the coast of Spain on the Canary Islands, where it gets its name.  This breed comes from Matiffs and Bulldogs.  The large dogs were used to protect livestock and homes.

Before outlawing dog fighting in the 1940s, the Presa was popular in the ring.  The Club Espanol de Presa Canario (CEPRC) was formed in the early 1980s.  The breed wasn't imported to the United States until the late 1980s.

The Perro de Presa Canario, commonly referred to as the Presa, is a very intimidating, powerful, large dog.  This breed is extremely protective of his family but is loyal, sweet, and can be quite gentle.  The Presa is NOT FOR FIRST TIME DOG OWNERS!!!  This dog is highly athletic, confident, and intelligent, and must be properly trained and socialized.  This is a very dangerous breed in the wrong hands.

Exercise:
This breed needs extensive daily exercise.  The Presa requires several long walks each day and requires training games that exercise his body as well as him mind.

Grooming:
The Perro de Presa Canario's coat is easily cared for.  Special attention should be taken to make sure his face folds stay clean, as he usually drools after drinking and eating.

Training:
The Perro de Presa Canario needs extensive time and attention when training.  It is vitally important to properly train this breed!  Positive reinforcement should be used to encourage this breed from puppy to adulthood in proper obedience and manners.  I can not stress enough how important training is.  If you are truly considering getting this breed, please do your research.  These are extremely powerful animals that can easily develop problem behaviors if not properly challenged and trained.