Canary Dog - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: 55 - 65 cm (21.5 - 25.5 inches)

Weight: 38 - 48 kg (84 - 106 lb)

Life Span: 11 years

Grooming: Undemanding

Exercise: Demanding

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Fearless & protective

Country of Origin: Canary Islands

AKC Group: Not registered

Other Names: Presa Canario

Temperament:

The Canary Dog is protective, dominant, fearless and loyal. Canary Dogs are exceptional home guardians, that are truly devoted to their family. These dogs need to have an experienced owner who understands the dominant nature of this breed and who can provide proper training and socialization. Canary Dogs can be dangerous without the right handler, as they can become aggressive towards strangers and other dogs. The Canary Dog is very loyal and will not hesitate to attack anyone who threatens its owner or family. If Canary Dogs are raised correctly then they make docile and well-behaved household pets.

Grooming:

Canary Dogs are easy to groom and low maintenance. They are average shedders and an occasional brush is sufficient to remove the dead hairs. To bring out the natural shine of the coat, Canary Dogs should be wiped down with a rough cloth or chamois.

Exercise:

Canary Dogs need a decent amount of daily exercise. This breed should be kept on a leash unless within a controlled environment to prevent any aggressive interactions with other dogs. They enjoy running alongside a cycle to burn energy.

History:

The Canary dog was developed specifically for dog fighting in the Canary Islands during the 1800s. It is likely that its ancestry includes the local breed, the Bardino Majero (now extinct) crossed with the imported English Mastiffs. Dog fighting was a popular form of entertainment and often took place in pits or rings on the Islands. When dog fighting became illegal, the numbers of Canary Dogs rapidly decreased until they were almost extinct by the 1960s. This breed was revived by the American veterinarian Dr. Carl Semencic.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Powerful, intimidating and well proportioned.

Color: Fawn or brindle with or without white markings.

Coat: Short, rough and flat with a harsh texture. The hair is slightly longer on the withers and rump.

Tail: Tapered and carried high when in action and hanging down at rest.

Ears: Set high and erect if cropped. Natural ears are of medium size, hanging and can be rose shaped.

Body: The body is longer than tall with a deep, broad chest extending to the elbows. The topline is straight and the croup is wide and should not be long. The belly is slightly tucked up and the ribs are well-sprung.

Additional Comments:

The Canary Dog is not suitable for first time dog owners and it is essential that these dogs have early training and socialization. They should be exposed to a variety of animals, people and situations during puppyhood to help prevent dominant or aggressive behaviors becoming a problem once fully grown.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/canary_dog/