Presa Canario

The Presa Canario is the catch dog of the Canary Islands — a heavy molosser bred to hold cattle, and restricted by law in several countries.

History

It was developed on Gran Canaria and Tenerife from Iberian mastiff stock crossed with dogs brought by British settlers, to control and hold half-wild cattle. It was also used in dog fighting until Spain banned the practice in the 1940s, after which the breed nearly disappeared and was rebuilt from the 1970s. It is a symbol of Gran Canaria and appears on the island's coat of arms.

Temperament

The breed is known for being calm and confident with its own household and strongly territorial with everything else — a guarding dog whose size and drive make socialising and containment non-negotiable rather than advisable.

Care and training

It needs space, serious containment, sustained socialising from puppyhood and an experienced owner. Legal restrictions apply in a number of countries and should be checked first. The short coat is easy.

Health

Known tendencies are those of large molossers: hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.