Perro de Presa Canario Dog: A Fascinating Breed With Unique Characteristics!
Perro de Presa Canario or Canary Mastiff is a rare and ancient breed native to the Canary Islands, Spain. They are large-sized, powerful dogs with imposing appearances, and they make loyal and protective companions. In this article, you’ll learn about the history and origin of this unique breed, its temperament, size, trainability, and exercise needs.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog History
This breed is believed to have descended from the Bardino Majero, a livestock guardian dog brought to the Canary Islands by Spanish conquerors and settlers in the 15th century. They were bred to work as farm guards, protectors, and hunters of wild animals. However, the breed’s fighting capabilities led to them being used in illegal dog fighting rings in the past. The breed was in danger of extinction in the early 1900s, but in the 1970s, a group of passionate breeders brought the breed back to life.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Breed Characteristics
Perro de Presa Canario dogs are large, muscular dogs with a broad skull and imposing appearance. They come in fawn, brindle, and black with white markings on their chest and feet. They weigh between 80 to 130 pounds and stand between 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a life expectancy of 9 to 11 years.
Robust and powerful, Perro de Presa Canario dogs possess a strong personality, which requires experienced handling. They are devoted to their families but are reserved with strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. They are natural protectors and will act if they perceive any threat to their family.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Intelligence
Perro de Presa Canario dogs are highly intelligent and can be easily trained by experienced trainers. They are independent thinkers and problem solvers, making early socialization and firm training crucial. However, they tend to be stubborn, and their training requires repetitive exercises that reward positive behaviors and discourage negative ones.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Average Size
Perro de Presa Canario dogs are large and muscular. Male dogs weigh between 110 and 130 pounds and stand between 23 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Female dogs weigh between 85 and 110 pounds and stand between 22 and 25 inches tall at the shoulder.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Child Friendly
Perro de Presa Canario dogs are generally good with children. They are loyal and protective of their family, and coupled with proper socialization and early training, they can make excellent family pets. However, they are large and powerful dogs, so it’s essential to supervise their interactions with young children.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Health Needs
Perro de Presa Canario dogs are generally healthy dogs. However, like any breed, they are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and allergies. To ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life, provide them with a balanced diet, regular vet check-ups, and plenty of exercise.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Grooming Needs
Perro de Presa Canario dogs have short, smooth coats that are easy to maintain. They require weekly brushing to remove loose hair and dead skin cells. Regular bathing is not necessary unless the dog gets dirty or stinky. However, their ears need cleaning to prevent infection, and their nails need trimming monthly.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Amount Of Shedding
Perro de Presa Canario dogs shed minimally, making them hypoallergenic dogs. Weekly brushing helps remove any loose hair and promotes healthy skin and coat.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Trainability
Perro de Presa Canario dogs are highly trainable, but training and socialization require patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods. Early socialization and obedience training are critical to ensure they act appropriately around people and other animals.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Exercise Needs
Perro de Presa Canario dogs have high exercise needs. They are active dogs that require daily exercise to stay healthy, happy, and stimulated mentally and physically. At least an hour of daily exercise in the form of long walks, jog, or vigorous playtime in a fenced yard is necessary.
Perro de Presa Canario Dog Average Lifespan
Perro de Presa Canario dogs have a life expectancy of 9 to 11 years. However, with proper care, diet, and exercise, some dogs have been known to live longer.
Conclusion
The Perro de Presa Canario or Canary Mastiff is a unique breed that requires experienced handling, proper socialization, and early training. They are loyal, protective, and make excellent family pets with the right owners. Understanding their history, temperament, and exercise needs is essential to ensure they lead happy, healthy lives.