Great Canary

Great Canary - a large, strong, athletic, reliable, durable and impressive dog. He has a massive body. The head is massive and square in shape, covered with flabby skin, which gives it a wrinkled look. The muzzle is short, strong and wide with a black nose. The eyes are medium sized, oval in shape and dark brown in color. The ears are medium sized, raised in the shape of a rose petal or may be slightly lowered (may be trimmed). The chest is wide and the tail is medium in size, with a pointed tip. The paws are round (similar to a cat). The coat is short, straight and coarse. The fur can be brown, gray and striped. May have white spots on the neck and chest.

Characteristics of Breed

Life Expectancy (years)

9-13

Size

large, extralarge

Height (inches)

21-25

Weight (pounds)

90-150

Coat Length

short

Coat Colors

Brown, Gray, Fawn

History and Origin

Great Dane of Canary or Presa Canario was bred in the Canary Islands. This is the result of the crossing of mastiffs and shepherd dogs from the Canary Islands (brought by Spanish colonists and which have now disappeared). In the 16th and 17th centuries, the Canary Great Dane was used to guard and graze livestock, and later to participate in dog battles until 1940-1960, when the breed was banned.

Physical Characteristics

The Great Canary is a striking breed with a powerful, square head that is nearly as wide as it is long. Its broad muzzle and deep chest contribute to its formidable appearance, while its thick skin and dense bones provide resilience and strength. The breed's coat is short and rough, typically displaying colors such as fawn, brindle, or black. Its muscular build is complemented by a slightly raised rump and cropped ears, adding to its imposing presence. Despite its size, the Great Canary moves with surprising agility, making it well-suited for both protection and herding tasks.

Temperament and Personality

Great Canary has a strong and aggressive character; very confident, calm, careful and well balanced. He is loving and gentle with his master and his family, but careful with strangers. Presa Canario dominates other dogs but gets along well with dogs of the opposite sex and a weaker character.

Utility

Great Canary is used as a guard dog and for grazing cattle. Previously used in dog battles.

Breed pictures

What To Expect When Caring For a Great Canary

The coat is short and can be cleaned with a regular wool brush. Bathe with shampoo if necessary.

health

While generally healthy, the Great Canary is prone to certain genetic conditions that require attention from responsible breeders and owners alike. Hip dysplasia is one such concern that can affect mobility if not addressed early on. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor the dog's overall health and catch any potential issues before they become serious. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise can help prevent joint problems and other health concerns common in large breeds.

grooming

Grooming the Great Canary is a manageable task thanks to its short coat, which requires minimal maintenance compared to longer-haired breeds. Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush helps remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout the coat, promoting a healthy shine. Bathing should be done as needed to keep the coat clean without stripping essential oils. Attention should also be given to ear cleaning to prevent infections, especially since cropped ears can be more susceptible to debris accumulation.

exercise

The Great Canary thrives on regular exercise that challenges both its physical capabilities and mental acuity. This breed benefits from daily activities such as long walks or jogs that allow it to expend energy constructively. Engaging in interactive play sessions or training exercises can also help stimulate its mind while reinforcing obedience skills. Providing opportunities for off-leash play in secure areas allows the Great Canary to explore its surroundings safely while satisfying its natural curiosity.

training

This is a difficult dog to train. Great Canary has a very dominant character, and it needs to be socialized from an early age. The training of presa canario should be based on obedience and humility.

nutrition

A well-balanced diet tailored specifically for large breeds like the Great Canary plays an integral role in maintaining optimal health throughout their lives. High-quality commercial dog food formulated for large breeds provides essential nutrients needed for growth development during puppyhood as well as maintenance during adulthood stages of life cycle . Owners may choose home-cooked meals under guidance veterinarian ensure nutritional requirements met consistently . Monitoring portion sizes preventing overfeeding crucial avoiding obesity-related issues common among larger dogs . Fresh water should always available keep hydrated especially after exercise sessions .

Conclusion

Last Update:

November 20, 2024