Did you know?
The Presa Canario is not named after the Canary Islands.
The Canary Islands are named after the dog!
Dogo Canario (Perro de Presa Canario)
No animal I know of can consistently be more of a friend and companion than a dog. – Stanley Leinwoll
(L) Midgard’s Eldora De Tamaran Bull “Iduma”
(R) Midgard’s Casa La Luna Nevada “Freya”
The Perro de Presa Canario’s name is Spanish for “Canarian catch dog”. His name was officially changed in 2001 to Dogo Canario for international recognition by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI). As his name suggests, he originated in the Canary Islands of Spain where he was used to chase off wild dogs, as a handler and drover of cattle, and for home protection for centuries.
Also known as the Canary Mastiff, the Dogo Canario is the animal symbol of the island of Gran Canaria.
The Dogo Canario is a medium to large sized dog possessing a very powerful build. With his penetrating eyes and deep-throated bark, this is an animal that demands respect.
Photos displayed courtesy of Todd Leppky, Midgard Kennels, British Columbia
The Dogo Canario male’s average size is 23.5 to 25.5 inches (59.7-64.8 cm) tall at the withers. His weight ranges from 110 to 135 pounds (45.35-61.2 kg). Females are slightly smaller. The short, dense coat requires minimal weekly grooming. Colours range from dark to light brindle (including reverse brindle) and all shades of fawn. Please note that dogs with the “rare” blue, black or white colouring are not purebred Dogo Canarios.
The Dogo Canario possesses a calm, steady temperament and is gentle, trusting, and loyally devoted to his family. He possesses a strong protective nature and is a highly capable guard dog, being naturally suspicious of strangers. The alert, watchful Dogo excels in protection work, easily becoming an intruder’s worst nightmare. In addition to his strengths as a guardian, the Dogo Canario is a highly competent hunter who has been used to bring down boars. His strong, athletic body is also ideal for weight pulling.
Like many guardian breeds, the Dogo Canario requires early training and plenty of socialization. This is critical as this dog can be highly dominant toward people and other dogs. Supremely self-confident, the Dogo in turn, requires a strong, confident owner who he can respect and is not the best choice for first-time dog owners. With his naturally territorial instinct, he is best kept in a well-fenced area. An active, well-toned athlete, the Dogo Canario requires regular exercise to keep his muscles in peak condition.
Ch BPIS Briarlane Picante OSheehan
“Audrey”
CKC Breed Standard
No breed standard available