The Presa Canario is a majestic and powerfully built dog. Its imposing musculature, combined with its keen intelligence and innate protective instincts, makes it a natural guard dog
The Presa, or Dogo Canario, is native to the Canary Islands and is a symbol of Gran Canaria. Descending from the pre-Hispanic “Majorero dog,” it was later crossbred with Anglo-Saxon breeds, including Bull Terriers, enhancing its robust physique. Remarkably, it boasts a bite force of 540 PSI. For comparison, a human’s bite force is around 140 PSI, while a hyena’s is about 1,100 PSI, a hippopotamus’s around 1,821 PSI, and a saltwater crocodile’s a staggering 7,700 PSI.
Characterized by a broad, cuboid head, a thick neck, and short, widely spaced ears, the Presa Canario sports a short, dense coat that can be brown, black, brindle, or fawn, sometimes with white markings. Its body is longer than it is tall. Females typically stand up to 22 inches tall and weigh up to 110 pounds, while males can reach 26 inches and 143 pounds. Muscular legs and a thick, medium-length tail complete its powerful physique.
Its formidable build means the Presa Canario is classified as a Potentially Dangerous Dog (PDD) in many regions (as designated by Law 50/99 of December 23rd and RD 287/2002) and is banned in some countries. Owning a PDD requires a license and adherence to specific regulations. These typically include being of legal age, having no criminal record, no history of violations related to PDD regulations, demonstrating physical and psychological fitness for owning such a dog, and having third-party liability insurance with coverage of at least €120,000.
Despite its protective and territorial nature, the Presa Canario is affectionate and loyal with its family. However, its protective instinct and wariness of strangers necessitate early socialisation and consistent training. A well-trained Presa Canario is calm and confident, aware of its own strength.
This breed’s power demands a balanced, protein-rich diet (three meals daily), supplemented with carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Portion sizes (430 to 580 grams) should be tailored to age and weight. Large-breed puppy food is recommended up to 12 months of age. Regular walks and vigorous exercise are essential for both physical and mental well-being.
Health-wise, Presa Canarios are susceptible to common large-breed ailments, including joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, neurological conditions such as epilepsy, and the risk of gastric torsion. Regular attention to eyes, ears, teeth, and gums is also important. Their short coat requires minimal grooming; weekly brushing and a bath every couple of months are generally sufficient.
