The Presa Canario is thought to date to the 15th and 16th centuries, perhaps descended from mastiff-type dogs brought to the Canary Islands by Spanish conquistadores. There they guarded farms, helped wrangle cattle, and drove off or killed stray or wild dogs.
The dogs that likely figured in the development of the Presa Canario include the Iberian Presa, a mastiff type, and various types of bulldogs, known as Alanos. With British colonists came other types of bulldogs and mastiffs, which also contributed to the Presa’s background. A sheepdog called the Bardino Majorero, notable for intelligence, guardian instincts, courage, and an impressive set of teeth, was the final addition to the mix.
With all that power behind them, Presas became popular in dog-fighting circles. The practice was prohibited in the 1940s, although it continued clandestinely for at least another 10 years. The breed’s numbers began to drop, not only because of the dog-fighting prohibition but also because of the introduction of other protective breeds such as the Doberman Pinscher and German Shepherd Dog. They captured the interest of island dog owners, and the Presa was relegated to farm work.
In the 1970s, however, people took an interest in the breed and began to reconstruct it, seeking to create a dog that was massive, strong, confident, courageous, highly territorial, and calm. A dog who would never give up no matter what the odds were against him. A breed club was formed on the islands in 1982. The Presa has been a part of the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service since 1996. The United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2003.
Presa Canario Personality
With attention and affection from early puppyhood, the Presa develops a strong bond to his family and will protect them from any threat. He is active and athletic, and (overall health permitting) suitable as a jogging or other exercise companion. When the day is done, he’s happy to relax with you and watch a little TV.
On a scale of 1 to 5, the Presa only earns a 2 for being child-friendly, so caution is warranted when exposure to children is possible. That said, children should be introduced to the Presa at an early age. Let them help feed him, groom him, and play with him so he learns that they are part of the family. Neighboring children should also be encouraged to play with the puppy. With proper training and supervision, the Presa can do well in a family with children, but it’s important to remember that his sweeping tail can easily knock a toddler over.
The Presa may get along with other pets if raised with them, as long as they give him pride of place. Note, however, that the breed scores a 1 (on a scale of 1 to 5) for being friendly toward other dogs, and receives the same low score for being "cat-friendly". The breed standard says the Presa is aggressive toward other dogs. It is particularly unwise to keep a Presa with another dog of the same gender or with the same “macho” mentality.
Presas can live happily in most environments as long as they receive moderate amounts of daily exercise. But take into account the presence of other dogs if you live in a communal area such an apartment or condo complex. Their presence could be an issue if your Presa is aggressive toward other animals. Early socialization and training may help adjust his attitude but is not always be successful.
The Presa is observant, curious, and wary of strangers. Those qualities, combined with his deep bark, make him a very effective watchdog and guard dog.
Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at 8 weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him. Never wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. Get him to puppy kindergarten by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, so you can start building a strong working relationship, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed.
Once your vet gives the go-ahead for more public exposure (and you have some confidence that the puppy won't attack strangers), hang out at your local coffee shop and introduce him to everyone who comes by. Invite people to your home, as well, so he becomes accustomed to visitors. These experiences will help him grow into a sensible, calm adult dog and minimize his wariness of new experiences. They are also the only way he has to learn what’s normal and what’s not, so he can discriminate between situations that call for him to step in and those that don’t.
Talk to the breeder, describe exactly what you’re looking for in a dog, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality. Whatever you want from a Presa Canario, look for one whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized from early puppyhood.
