The Presa Canario, also known as Dogo Canario or Perro de Presa Canario, is a dog breed originating from the Canary Islands, developed from the crossbreeding of the Majorero, an ancient local cattle dog, and mastiffs introduced by the Spanish. This breed was perfected for its qualities as a guardian and herd driver. The Dogo Canario quickly gained popularity in the 16th and 17th centuries due to its robustness and ability to work with cattle.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Canary Islands, Spain
- Type: Molossoid, guard and working dog
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 50-60 kg
- Female: 40-50 kg
- Height:
- Male: 60-65 cm
- Female: 56-61 cm
- Life expectancy: 9-11 years
- Exercise needs: 1 to 1.5 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (This dog prefers a spacious environment with a large fenced yard rather than an apartment)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be protective, but requires proper training to coexist harmoniously with children)
- Other animals: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (The Dogo Canario tends to be dominant and may not get along easily with other animals)
- Strangers: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (It is naturally wary of strangers, making it an excellent guard dog)
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (The Dogo Canario is better suited for life in a house with a large yard or spacious land)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (It does not have excessive grooming needs, but requires regular attention for its diet, exercise, and health)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Its maintenance is relatively moderate but expenses for its diet and health should be anticipated)
- Care frequency:
- Grooming: Although it has a short coat, occasional brushing is recommended to keep its skin in good condition.
- Exercise: The Dogo Canario needs daily exercise to avoid boredom and restlessness.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-1200 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 1000-1500 €
🏡 Important note
The Presa Canario is a powerful and protective dog, recommended for experienced owners. It requires firm and consistent training, and it is more comfortable in a spacious environment. It can be difficult to live with in an apartment due to its size and exercise needs. This dog is ideal for homes with a large fenced yard and capable of meeting its physical and mental requirements. An excellent guard dog, the Dogo Canario is a loyal companion, but it requires attentive and proactive management of its behavior.
