01. Caucasian Shepherd
Meet the topper of our list, also known as Caucasian Ovcharka, this dog can grow very large, minimum of 50kg or 110 lb. for an adult male, life span average of 10-12 years.
This breed originated from Russia and other European countries, originally used as guard dog for protecting livestock in mountain regions, these dogs are even feared by some popular wild predators such as wolves.
The Caucasian Shepherd is a relatively unknown breed here in the UK, but they are highly prized in their native countries which includes Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, the North Caucasus where these handsome large dogs are used to guard flocks of livestock. However, over the years the breed has earned a reputation for being extremely reliable watchdogs and companions thanks to their loyal, courageous, yet gentle and kind natures in a home environment. The Caucasian Shepherd is an extremely large dog and as such, they need to be trained and handled by people who are familiar with the needs of these large, intelligent and quick thinking dogs.
History
The Caucasian Shepherd's history is a bit of a mystery, but what is known is they are descendants of ancient breeds. There is archaeological evidence recently discovered that indicates the breed might have its origins in Mesopotamia although some experts believe these dogs were first bred in Tibet and were then introduced to the Caucasus. There are those who claim these dogs are the descendants of wolves found in the Caucasus, but with all the legends and beliefs of how the breed came about, what is known is that the Caucasian Shepherd Dog has helped herdsmen and shepherds guard their flocks against large predators for centuries in the mountainous regions of Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Daghestan as well as the steppes of the northern Caucasus.
The dogs that worked in the trans-Caucasus regions of the land were bigger with heavier coats whereas the dogs found working the steppes boasted much rangier builds and shorter, lighter coats. However, the dogs we see today are bred to conform to a breed standard. At one time, the breed was so popular and highly prized that the former Soviet authorities established state kennels where dogs were bred to guard government facilities and factories through the country. In America, the breed found favour with the army for being such reliable and trustworthy dogs and as a result they were used in the field as service dogs.
Although, relatively unknown here in the UK, more people are showing an interest in the breed thanks to their extremely large size and the many images of Caucasian Shepherds with their owners appearing on the Internet. The breed was only recognised by The United Kennel Club of America in 1995, but these handsome, noble dogs are not yet recognised as a breed in their own right by The Kennel Club here in the UK.
Appearance
Height at the withers: Males 70 - 90 cm, Females 65 - 75 cm
Average weight: Males 55 - 100 kg, Females 45 - 80 kg
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a well-muscled, powerful yet athletic looking large dog with males being a lot heavier and larger than their female counterparts. Both have extremely large, broad heads with nicely developed cheek bones. They have a slightly defined stop and the width of a dog's head is accentuated by the thick hair that stands away from each side of their jaws. Females have a slightly more refined head.
Caucasians have powerful muzzles that taper gently to the nose. Their lips are tight, thick and black in colour. They have a strong jaw with a perfect scissor bite where their upper teeth neatly overlap their lower ones and their canines are long and large. Noses are black in colour and broad, although lighter coloured dogs can have a brown nose. Their eyes are medium in size, oval-shaped and brown in colour which are set a little obliquely and quite deeply under a dog's brow.
Their ears are set high and triangular in shape which hang neatly on a dog's head. Caucasians have powerful albeit short necks which dog's hold slightly arched. Their forequarters are strong with dogs having moderately laid back shoulders and well-muscled, strong and straight front legs. Their bodies are nicely proportioned with dogs having well sprung ribs that are well let down to a dog's elbows. Chests are deep and broad with dogs having broad, strong and level backs.
Their loins are short, slightly arched and short. Their croup is long, muscular, broad and virtually flat. Bellies are nicely tucked up which adds to the Caucasian's athletic appearance. Back legs are well-boned, strong and muscular. Their feet are large, oval shaped with dogs having dewclaws on both their front and back legs. Nails are dark or in lighter coloured dogs, their nails can be lighter in colour too. Tails are set high which dogs carry down when relaxed, but when excited, a Caucasian carries their tail higher shaped like a sickle and level with their back.
When it comes to their coat, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog boasts a double coat that consists of a long, coarse outer coat and a much thicker, denser and softer undercoat. The hair on a dog's muzzle, their forehead and the front of their legs is smooth and short. However, hair is longer on their cheeks and on the back of their heads where it stands away from the body which adds to the breed's almost bear-like looks. These handsome dogs come in a variety of colours which includes the following:
Agouti grey - dark, light, silver, reddish, or yellowish - with or without white markings
White, cream, fawn or reddish fawn, tan or reddish tan, fulvous, with or without white markings
Brindle with grey markings
Piebald with grey markings
White with grey markings
Caucasian Shepherds often have darker masks on their faces which adds to their overall charming appeal.
Temperament
The Caucasian Shepherd is known to be an intelligent dog, although they can be quite strong willed at times. They are highly prized as watchdogs in many parts of the world although, when these dogs are in a home environment they are calm and gentle loving nothing more than to be part of the family. With this said, their natural guarding and protecting instincts are very strong and as such the Caucasian tends to be suspicious of anyone they don't know and the same can be said when they meet any new dogs.
They are known to be very even tempered and reliable. They are also very quick and boast having ultra-keen senses which makes them the ideal choice as tracker dogs. Caucasians mature slowly which has to be taken into account when training them. It cannot be stressed enough the importance of socialising puppies and young dogs as early as possible and to start their training early in order to curb any strong guarding and protecting instincts. If left too late, these dogs can easily show a more dominant side to their characters which makes them harder to handle.
Caucasians respond well to positive reinforcement training and do not take well to any sort of harsh correction or heavy handed training methods. Being such intelligent dogs that like nothing better than to protect and please, they are quick to pick up new things, but this includes the good and the bad. They are not the best choice for first time owners because they need to handled and trained by someone who is familiar with the needs of this breed or similar type of highly intelligent, large dog. Caucasians have to know their place in the pack and are never happier than when they know who to look to for guidance and direction.
Intelligence / Trainability
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is an intelligent dog, but they can be strong willed which is why their socialisation and training has to start as early as possible for them to understand who is the boss in a household. It's also another reason why they are not the best choice for first time owners. In the right hands and with the correct amount of training, Caucasians are easy to train, but they have to know who is boss and who to look to for direction for them to be truly obedient dogs, bearing in mind they are extremely large dogs that need to know their place in the "pack" and who is alpha dog. If they are allowed to show a more dominant side of their natures, being such large dogs they can become totally unmanageable, bordering on being out of control.
Their training has to start early and dogs need to know the basics as soon as possible. Being such large dogs, it's always best to enrol the help of an expert dog trainer when a Caucasian is around 7 to 8 months old. Another option is to enrol them into puppy classes so they learn to be obedient with the another bonus being they get to meet other puppies, dogs and people which is an important part of their socialisation, especially as the breed is known to be a little intolerant of other dogs at times.
Children and Other Pets
The Caucasian Shepherd is known to be a gentle giant and one that loves being in a family environment. They form strong bonds with their families and this includes the children. However, they can become a little over protective which means that any interaction between one of these large dogs and children should always be well supervised by an adult to make sure nobody gets knocked over albeit accidentally which could end up frightening or injuring them. This is especially true if children have any friends over to play in which case it might be best not to let such a large and protective dog near the kids just in case.
If well socialised from a young age, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog generally gets on well with other dogs, but care should be taken when they meet a dog for the first time because they have been known to be quite intolerant of other dogs at times. Care also has to be taken when they are around smaller animals which includes cats.
For further advice please read our article on Keeping Children Safe around Dogs.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog Health
The average life expectancy of a Caucasian Shepherd Dog is between 10 and 12 years when properly cared for and fed an appropriate good quality diet to suit their ages.
Like so many other breeds, the Caucasian is known to suffer from a few hereditary health issues which are worth knowing about if you are planning share your home with one of these large, energetic dogs. The conditions that seem to affect the breed the most include the following:
Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Luxating patella
Bloat/gastric torsion
Obesity
Caring for a Caucasian Shepherd Dog
As with any other breed, Caucasians need to be groomed on a regular basis to make sure their coats and skin are kept in top condition. They also need to be given regular daily exercise to ensure they remain fit and healthy. On top of this, dogs need to be fed good quality food that meets all their nutritional needs throughout their lives.
Grooming
The Caucasian Shepherd is high maintenance when it comes to keeping their coats looking good and tangle-free. They boast having a profuse double coat and they shed a tremendous amount during the Spring and then again in the Autumn when more frequent grooming is an absolute necessity. However, during the rest of the year although they shed, it is much less so, but they still need to be brushed frequently in order to stay on top of things, especially as these are such large dogs. The good news is that Caucasian Shepherds do not need any sort of specialist grooming.
It's also important to check a dog's ears on a regular basis and to clean them when necessary. If too much wax is allowed to build up in a dog's ears, it can lead to a painful infection which can be hard to clear up. In short, prevention is often easier than cure when it comes to ear infections.
Exercise
Caucasians need to be given the right amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation for them to be truly well-rounded dogs. This means they need to be given as much outdoor time as possible. It's important for these dogs to release all their energy and the best way is for them to play interactive games which can include things like chasing balls, retrieving frisbees and other toys that are thrown for them. Another great way of keeping the weight off these large dogs is to take them hiking, a pass time they thoroughly enjoy.
Ideally, a Caucasian should be given anything from 60 to 80 minutes exercise a day. A shorter walk in the morning would be fine, but a longer more interesting one in the afternoon is a must. These dogs also like to be able to roam around a back garden as often as possible so they can really let off steam. However, the fencing has to be extremely secure to keep these quick thinking, large dogs in because if they find a weakness in the fence, they will soon escape out and get into all sorts of trouble. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on these dogs whenever they are allowed to run around a garden, no matter how secure it is, just in case.
With this said, Caucasian Shepherd puppies should not be over exercised because their joints and bones are still growing and too much pressure on them could result in causing a dog a few problems later on in their lives. They should not be allowed to jump up or off furniture nor should they be allowed to run up and down the stairs for this reason.
Feeding
If you get a Caucasian Shepherd puppy from a breeder, they would give you a feeding schedule and it's important to stick to the same routine, feeding the same puppy food to avoid any tummy upsets. You can change a puppy's diet, but this needs to be done very gradually always making sure they don't develop any digestive upsets and if they do, it's best to put them back on their original diet and to discuss things with the vet before attempting to change it again.
Older dogs are not known to be fussy or finicky eaters, but this does not mean you can feed them a lower quality diet. It's best to feed a mature dog twice a day, once in the morning and then again in the evening, making sure it's good quality food that meets all their nutritional requirements. It's also important that dogs be given the right amount of exercise so they burn off any excess calories or they might gain too much weight which can lead to all sorts of health issues. Obesity can shorten a dog's life by several years so it's important to keep an eye on their waistline from the word go and these dogs are prone to obesity which is something that needs to be kept an eye on.
Because Caucasian Shepherds are prone to suffer from bloat, it is really important that they be fed twice a day instead of giving them just one larger meal a day. It's also a good idea to invest in a stand to place their feed bowl which makes it easier for these large dogs to eat comfortably without having to stretch their necks down low to reach their food. Dogs should never be exercised just before or just after they have eaten either because this puts them more a risk of suffering from bloat.
Average Cost to keep/care for a Caucasian Shepherd Dog
If you are looking to buy a Caucasian Shepherd, you would need to pay anything from £500 to over £1500 for a well-bred pedigree puppy. The cost of insuring a male 3-year-old Caucasian Shepherd Dog in northern England would be £19.20 a month for basic cover but for a lifetime policy, this would set you back £41.22 a month (quote as of June 2016). When insurance companies calculate a pet's premium, they factor in several things which includes where you live in the UK and a dog's age and whether or not they have been neutered or spayed.
When it comes to food costs, you need to buy the best quality food whether wet or dry, to feed your dog throughout their lives making sure it suits the different stages of their lives. This would set you back between £50 - £60 a month. On top of all of this, you would need to factor in veterinary costs if you want to share your home with a Caucasian Shepherd Dog and this includes their initial vaccinations, their annual boosters, the cost of neutering or spaying your dog when the time is right and their yearly health checks, all of which quickly adds up to over a £1000 a year.
As a rough guide, the average cost to keep and care for a Caucasian Shepherd Dpg would be between £80 to £110 a month depending on the level of insurance cover you opt to buy for your dog, but this does not include the initial cost of buying a pedigree puppy.
A very popular breed of strong dogs and many times accountable for cases of attacking humans. This is the resulting breed when you combine the energy and agility of terriers and the body build and strength of a bulldog. In some countries, Pit Bulls are even used in dog fights, where the dogs are trained to fight each other in a death match.
Introduction
The American Pit Bull Terrier, also known at times as the Pit Bull, the Pit Bull Terrier, the American Bull, the American Pit Bull, the American Pit Bull Dog, the Pit Dog, the Half-and-Half, the American Bull Terrier, the Yankee Terrier, the Yankee Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Terrier, descends from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier of England. This is a well-balanced dog whose tremendous strength is unusual for its moderate size. Pit Bulls, who are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, share a common history with the AKC-recognized American Staffordshire Terrier. Pit Bulls, like Am Staffs, are stocky, powerful yet agile, well-muscled and highly intelligent. Although descended from dogs bred for bull baiting and pit fighting, and unfortunately still used by unscrupulous owners in illegal dog fighting circles, Pit Bulls have many remarkable qualities, including their gameness, trainability, loyalty and affection.
The Staffordshire Terrier was accepted for registration in the American Kennel Club Stud Book in 1936. The name of the breed was revised in 1972 to the American Staffordshire Terrier, to distinguish it from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier of England, which is much lighter in weight. The American Pit Bull Terrier was the first breed registered with the United Kennel Club, in 1898. Pit Bulls and Am Staffs are virtually the same animal, with different club registrations. Most Pit Bulls are between 17 and 19 inches at the withers and weigh on average between 60 and 80 pounds. Their short, stiff, glossy coat can be of any color or color combination. Pit Bulls require minimal grooming; brushing with a firm-bristled brush and an occasional bath should suffice.
The American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the so-called bully breeds often labeled a pit bull. In fact, "pit bull" isn't a breed, but a term used to describe the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Some people say the American Pit Bull Terrier is the same as the American Staffordshire Terrier. Others, just as forcefully, say they're entirely different breeds.
But all experts can agree that the confusion started with a decision by the AKC in the early 1930s to give it a new name, American Staffordshire Terrier, to separate it from its pit-fighting past. The American Pit Bull Terrier has not been recognized by the AKC, while the American Staffordshire Terrier, which is slightly smaller, has been.
The bull breeds are often grossly misunderstood. The qualities that make these dogs tenacious players in obedience and agility games also attract highly unscrupulous people looking for strong competitors for their dog fighting rings. The sorry result is that bull breeds, in particular the APBT, have gained a reputation over recent years for being dangerous.
Nothing could be further from the truth. But rampant misinformation and fear caused by the actions of a minority of dogs kept by criminally negligent people have provoked legislation against the breed in a number of cities and countries around the world.
As the owner of an American Pit Bull Terrier you must be aware that you may be met with anger and hostility by people who are misinformed about your wonderful dog. This is not a breed for everyone, especially those who aren't willing to invest time in training and socialization and can't or won't provide consistent firm guidance.
When raised with the proper training and socialization, the American Pit Bull Terrier makes an excellent companion for children. He is loving and gentle with people and often makes a lousy guard dog because of his tail-wagging eagerness to greet the person at the door. American Pit Bull Terriers are devoted and loyal to their family and will, if necessary, defend them to the death.
These dogs are extremely intelligent and learn commands and tricks with ease. They have a zest for life and love to be involved in everything going on around them. They maintain a puppyish demeanor well into adulthood, and that vitality makes them a joy to live with. Once you have met and gotten to know this breed you will wonder how you ever lived without one.
Highlights
American Pit Bull Terriers are not a good choice for people who can give them little or no attention.
They must be trained and socialized when young to overcome the breed's tendencies toward stubbornness and bossiness, which combined with his strength can make him hard to handle if he hasn't learned you are in charge.
Your American Pit Bull Terrier must be kept on leash in public to prevent aggression toward other dogs. It's not a good idea to let these dogs run loose in dog parks. While they might not start a fight, they'll never back down from one, and they fight to the finish. American Pit Bulls who aren't properly socialized as puppies can become aggressive toward other dogs.
Breed-specific legislation almost always includes this breed. Be aware of rules in your area as well as neighboring regions if you travel with your dog.
American Pit Bull Terriers have a great need to chew, and powerful jaws make quick work of cheap or flimsy toys. Give yours only tough, durable toys that can't be chewed up and swallowed.
American Pit Bull Terriers are best suited to owners who can offer firm, fair training, and gentle consistent discipline.
History
Bull and terrier breeds were created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull- and bear-baiting. When those sports were deemed inhumane and became illegal 1835, dog-fighting sprung up in its place — and thus was the trait for dog aggression bred into the genetic line.
But another part of this breed's genetic makeup is an unwillingness to bite humans. Handlers reaching into the dog-fighting rings wanted to be able to separate dogs without getting hurt themselves. Quite soon the breed developed a reputation as a strong, protective dog, but one also known for being gentle and family-friendly.
When these "bull dogs" accompanied immigrants to America they began new careers as all-around farm dogs. Their jobs included hunting wild game, guarding the property from animal intruders, and providing companionship. In keeping with the "bigger is better" mindset of their new country, the settlers developed a dog larger than it had been in England.
In 1898 the UKC, Britain's equivalent of the AKC, named these bull dogs the American Pit Bull Terrier. The AKC decided to recognize the breed in the early 1930s — but under a new name. Intending to separate it from its pit-fighting past, the AKC named it the American Staffordshire Terrier.
Since then the American Staffordshire Terrier has been bred for AKC conformation, or dog shows, while the American Pit Bull Terrier has not been. The results are very slight differences in build and in personality.
Size
Height of 18 to 19 inches for males, 17 to 18 inches for females. Weight ranges from 30 to 85 pounds.
Personality
These dogs love people and have no idea that their size is something of a deterrent to being a lap dog. Confident and keenly aware of their surroundings, they are watchdogs in that they may alert you to the presence of strangers, but that's primarily because they're eager to greet "their" guests.
While their love of people makes them failures as guard dogs, their courage is unmatched and they will defend their family with their lives.
Like every dog, American Pit Bull Terriers need early socialization — exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences — when they're young. Socialization helps ensure that your your puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog.
Health
American Pit Bull Terriers are generally healthy, but as with all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Not all American Pit Bulls Terriers will get any or all of these diseases, but it's important to be aware of them if you're considering this breed.
Hip Dysplasia (HD): This condition is a malformation of the hip joint ball and socket. It can be extremely painful depending on the severity of the condition. Dogs who are going to be bred should have x-rays of their hips done at 2 years of age to ensure they do not have this condition.
Allergies: Allergies are quite common in APBT/AmStaffs. Skin allergies are typically caused by such environmental allergens as fleas, grass, pollen, and dust.They can also be food related, but this is less common. Common food allergens include beef, rice, wheat, and corn. Allergies can cause intense itching and discomfort, which means dogs will dig and chew sometimes till they bleed. This is risky because secondary infections can develop in the damaged tissue. To treat allergies, the cause must be identified and removed from the dog's environment if possible. A veterinarian can help you with this, as well as let you know which allergy symptoms can be controlled with medication.
Hypothyroidism: This is a dysfunction of the thyroid gland that causes weight gain, poor coat, reproductive problems and other issues. It usually occurs in middle-aged dogs and can be controlled with daily medication that must continue throughout the dog's life.
Heart Disease: Heart disease affects these dogs in several forms, with aortic stenosis being most common. Aortic stenosis is a congenital heart defect, meaning it's something the dog is born with. It's an abnormal narrowing of the connection between the left ventricle and the aorta. Some dogs don't have any signs or only minor signs, while others may have little energy or even die suddenly. If your veterinarian hears a heart murmur, a chest x-ray and electrocardiogram can confirm the diagnosis.
Care
Expect to spend about an hour a day walking, playing with or otherwise exercising this dog. While they love people, American Pit Bull Terriers are strong for their size and can be stubborn if left to their own devices. Begin obedience training early and continue it throughout the dog's life. Training is the foundation for a strong relationship with your American Pit Bull Terrier.
American Pit Bull Terriers should not be left outside for long because they can't tolerate the cold well. Even regardless the climate, these dogs do best as housedogs. They form strong attachments to their families and will suffer if left alone for long periods.
Feeding
Recommended daily amount: 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don't all need the same amount of food. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference — the better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog and the less of it you'll need to shake into your dog's bowl.
To prevent obesity, measure your dog's food and give meals at set times each day rather than leaving food out all the time. He should have a waist when you look down at him, and you should be able to feel his ribs beneath a layer of muscle but not see them. If the ribs are buried beneath rolls of fat, your dog needs to go on a diet.
For more on feeding your American Pit Bull Terrier, see our guidelines for buying the right food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog.
Coat Color And Grooming
The short coat is shiny and stiff to the touch, and comes in all colors — red, blue, brown, grey, black and white, and brindle, among them.
They require little grooming, and have a coat that's easy to keep clean with the occasional bath. Brushing with a stiff brush and wiping down with a cloth will maintain the coat's shine.
Brush your dog's teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath.
Trim his nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn't wear them down naturally to prevent painful tears and other problems. If you can hear them clicking on the floor, they're too long. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. So, if you're not experienced trimming dog nails, ask a vet or groomer for pointers.
His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. When you check your dog's ears, wipe them out with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to help prevent infections. Don't insert anything into the ear canal; just clean the outer ear.
Accustom your American Pit Bull Terrier to being brushed and examined when he's a puppy. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. Make grooming a positive experience filled with praise and rewards, and you'll lay the groundwork for easy veterinary exams and other handling when he's an adult.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Children And Other Pets
American Pit Bull Terriers love children, and we don't mean for breakfast. Sturdy, energetic, and tolerant, they are ideal playmates. That said, no dog of any size or breed should ever be left unsupervised with children.
When no adult can be there to oversee what's going on, dogs should be crated or kenneled, especially after they reach sexual maturity, when they may begin to test the possibility of becoming "pack" leader.
Don't allow children to pull on a dog's ears or tail. Teach them never to approach any dog while he's sleeping or eating or to try to take the dog's food away.
Because of their dog-fighting heritage, some American Pit Bull Terriers retain a tendency to be aggressive with other dogs, but if they are socialized early and trained to know what behavior is expected of them, that aggression can be minimized or overcome, and many are dog- and cat-friendly. Just to be safe, they should always be supervised in the presence of other pets.
This breed originated from Russia and other European countries, originally used as guard dog for protecting livestock in mountain regions, these dogs are even feared by some popular wild predators such as wolves.
The Caucasian Shepherd is a relatively unknown breed here in the UK, but they are highly prized in their native countries which includes Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, the North Caucasus where these handsome large dogs are used to guard flocks of livestock. However, over the years the breed has earned a reputation for being extremely reliable watchdogs and companions thanks to their loyal, courageous, yet gentle and kind natures in a home environment. The Caucasian Shepherd is an extremely large dog and as such, they need to be trained and handled by people who are familiar with the needs of these large, intelligent and quick thinking dogs.
History
The Caucasian Shepherd's history is a bit of a mystery, but what is known is they are descendants of ancient breeds. There is archaeological evidence recently discovered that indicates the breed might have its origins in Mesopotamia although some experts believe these dogs were first bred in Tibet and were then introduced to the Caucasus. There are those who claim these dogs are the descendants of wolves found in the Caucasus, but with all the legends and beliefs of how the breed came about, what is known is that the Caucasian Shepherd Dog has helped herdsmen and shepherds guard their flocks against large predators for centuries in the mountainous regions of Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Daghestan as well as the steppes of the northern Caucasus.
The dogs that worked in the trans-Caucasus regions of the land were bigger with heavier coats whereas the dogs found working the steppes boasted much rangier builds and shorter, lighter coats. However, the dogs we see today are bred to conform to a breed standard. At one time, the breed was so popular and highly prized that the former Soviet authorities established state kennels where dogs were bred to guard government facilities and factories through the country. In America, the breed found favour with the army for being such reliable and trustworthy dogs and as a result they were used in the field as service dogs.
Although, relatively unknown here in the UK, more people are showing an interest in the breed thanks to their extremely large size and the many images of Caucasian Shepherds with their owners appearing on the Internet. The breed was only recognised by The United Kennel Club of America in 1995, but these handsome, noble dogs are not yet recognised as a breed in their own right by The Kennel Club here in the UK.
Appearance
Height at the withers: Males 70 - 90 cm, Females 65 - 75 cm
Average weight: Males 55 - 100 kg, Females 45 - 80 kg
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a well-muscled, powerful yet athletic looking large dog with males being a lot heavier and larger than their female counterparts. Both have extremely large, broad heads with nicely developed cheek bones. They have a slightly defined stop and the width of a dog's head is accentuated by the thick hair that stands away from each side of their jaws. Females have a slightly more refined head.
Caucasians have powerful muzzles that taper gently to the nose. Their lips are tight, thick and black in colour. They have a strong jaw with a perfect scissor bite where their upper teeth neatly overlap their lower ones and their canines are long and large. Noses are black in colour and broad, although lighter coloured dogs can have a brown nose. Their eyes are medium in size, oval-shaped and brown in colour which are set a little obliquely and quite deeply under a dog's brow.
Their ears are set high and triangular in shape which hang neatly on a dog's head. Caucasians have powerful albeit short necks which dog's hold slightly arched. Their forequarters are strong with dogs having moderately laid back shoulders and well-muscled, strong and straight front legs. Their bodies are nicely proportioned with dogs having well sprung ribs that are well let down to a dog's elbows. Chests are deep and broad with dogs having broad, strong and level backs.
Their loins are short, slightly arched and short. Their croup is long, muscular, broad and virtually flat. Bellies are nicely tucked up which adds to the Caucasian's athletic appearance. Back legs are well-boned, strong and muscular. Their feet are large, oval shaped with dogs having dewclaws on both their front and back legs. Nails are dark or in lighter coloured dogs, their nails can be lighter in colour too. Tails are set high which dogs carry down when relaxed, but when excited, a Caucasian carries their tail higher shaped like a sickle and level with their back.
When it comes to their coat, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog boasts a double coat that consists of a long, coarse outer coat and a much thicker, denser and softer undercoat. The hair on a dog's muzzle, their forehead and the front of their legs is smooth and short. However, hair is longer on their cheeks and on the back of their heads where it stands away from the body which adds to the breed's almost bear-like looks. These handsome dogs come in a variety of colours which includes the following:
Agouti grey - dark, light, silver, reddish, or yellowish - with or without white markings
White, cream, fawn or reddish fawn, tan or reddish tan, fulvous, with or without white markings
Brindle with grey markings
Piebald with grey markings
White with grey markings
Caucasian Shepherds often have darker masks on their faces which adds to their overall charming appeal.
Temperament
The Caucasian Shepherd is known to be an intelligent dog, although they can be quite strong willed at times. They are highly prized as watchdogs in many parts of the world although, when these dogs are in a home environment they are calm and gentle loving nothing more than to be part of the family. With this said, their natural guarding and protecting instincts are very strong and as such the Caucasian tends to be suspicious of anyone they don't know and the same can be said when they meet any new dogs.
They are known to be very even tempered and reliable. They are also very quick and boast having ultra-keen senses which makes them the ideal choice as tracker dogs. Caucasians mature slowly which has to be taken into account when training them. It cannot be stressed enough the importance of socialising puppies and young dogs as early as possible and to start their training early in order to curb any strong guarding and protecting instincts. If left too late, these dogs can easily show a more dominant side to their characters which makes them harder to handle.
Caucasians respond well to positive reinforcement training and do not take well to any sort of harsh correction or heavy handed training methods. Being such intelligent dogs that like nothing better than to protect and please, they are quick to pick up new things, but this includes the good and the bad. They are not the best choice for first time owners because they need to handled and trained by someone who is familiar with the needs of this breed or similar type of highly intelligent, large dog. Caucasians have to know their place in the pack and are never happier than when they know who to look to for guidance and direction.
Intelligence / Trainability
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is an intelligent dog, but they can be strong willed which is why their socialisation and training has to start as early as possible for them to understand who is the boss in a household. It's also another reason why they are not the best choice for first time owners. In the right hands and with the correct amount of training, Caucasians are easy to train, but they have to know who is boss and who to look to for direction for them to be truly obedient dogs, bearing in mind they are extremely large dogs that need to know their place in the "pack" and who is alpha dog. If they are allowed to show a more dominant side of their natures, being such large dogs they can become totally unmanageable, bordering on being out of control.
Their training has to start early and dogs need to know the basics as soon as possible. Being such large dogs, it's always best to enrol the help of an expert dog trainer when a Caucasian is around 7 to 8 months old. Another option is to enrol them into puppy classes so they learn to be obedient with the another bonus being they get to meet other puppies, dogs and people which is an important part of their socialisation, especially as the breed is known to be a little intolerant of other dogs at times.
Children and Other Pets
The Caucasian Shepherd is known to be a gentle giant and one that loves being in a family environment. They form strong bonds with their families and this includes the children. However, they can become a little over protective which means that any interaction between one of these large dogs and children should always be well supervised by an adult to make sure nobody gets knocked over albeit accidentally which could end up frightening or injuring them. This is especially true if children have any friends over to play in which case it might be best not to let such a large and protective dog near the kids just in case.
If well socialised from a young age, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog generally gets on well with other dogs, but care should be taken when they meet a dog for the first time because they have been known to be quite intolerant of other dogs at times. Care also has to be taken when they are around smaller animals which includes cats.
For further advice please read our article on Keeping Children Safe around Dogs.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog Health
The average life expectancy of a Caucasian Shepherd Dog is between 10 and 12 years when properly cared for and fed an appropriate good quality diet to suit their ages.
Like so many other breeds, the Caucasian is known to suffer from a few hereditary health issues which are worth knowing about if you are planning share your home with one of these large, energetic dogs. The conditions that seem to affect the breed the most include the following:
Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Luxating patella
Bloat/gastric torsion
Obesity
Caring for a Caucasian Shepherd Dog
As with any other breed, Caucasians need to be groomed on a regular basis to make sure their coats and skin are kept in top condition. They also need to be given regular daily exercise to ensure they remain fit and healthy. On top of this, dogs need to be fed good quality food that meets all their nutritional needs throughout their lives.
Grooming
The Caucasian Shepherd is high maintenance when it comes to keeping their coats looking good and tangle-free. They boast having a profuse double coat and they shed a tremendous amount during the Spring and then again in the Autumn when more frequent grooming is an absolute necessity. However, during the rest of the year although they shed, it is much less so, but they still need to be brushed frequently in order to stay on top of things, especially as these are such large dogs. The good news is that Caucasian Shepherds do not need any sort of specialist grooming.
It's also important to check a dog's ears on a regular basis and to clean them when necessary. If too much wax is allowed to build up in a dog's ears, it can lead to a painful infection which can be hard to clear up. In short, prevention is often easier than cure when it comes to ear infections.
Exercise
Caucasians need to be given the right amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation for them to be truly well-rounded dogs. This means they need to be given as much outdoor time as possible. It's important for these dogs to release all their energy and the best way is for them to play interactive games which can include things like chasing balls, retrieving frisbees and other toys that are thrown for them. Another great way of keeping the weight off these large dogs is to take them hiking, a pass time they thoroughly enjoy.
Ideally, a Caucasian should be given anything from 60 to 80 minutes exercise a day. A shorter walk in the morning would be fine, but a longer more interesting one in the afternoon is a must. These dogs also like to be able to roam around a back garden as often as possible so they can really let off steam. However, the fencing has to be extremely secure to keep these quick thinking, large dogs in because if they find a weakness in the fence, they will soon escape out and get into all sorts of trouble. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on these dogs whenever they are allowed to run around a garden, no matter how secure it is, just in case.
With this said, Caucasian Shepherd puppies should not be over exercised because their joints and bones are still growing and too much pressure on them could result in causing a dog a few problems later on in their lives. They should not be allowed to jump up or off furniture nor should they be allowed to run up and down the stairs for this reason.
Feeding
If you get a Caucasian Shepherd puppy from a breeder, they would give you a feeding schedule and it's important to stick to the same routine, feeding the same puppy food to avoid any tummy upsets. You can change a puppy's diet, but this needs to be done very gradually always making sure they don't develop any digestive upsets and if they do, it's best to put them back on their original diet and to discuss things with the vet before attempting to change it again.
Older dogs are not known to be fussy or finicky eaters, but this does not mean you can feed them a lower quality diet. It's best to feed a mature dog twice a day, once in the morning and then again in the evening, making sure it's good quality food that meets all their nutritional requirements. It's also important that dogs be given the right amount of exercise so they burn off any excess calories or they might gain too much weight which can lead to all sorts of health issues. Obesity can shorten a dog's life by several years so it's important to keep an eye on their waistline from the word go and these dogs are prone to obesity which is something that needs to be kept an eye on.
Because Caucasian Shepherds are prone to suffer from bloat, it is really important that they be fed twice a day instead of giving them just one larger meal a day. It's also a good idea to invest in a stand to place their feed bowl which makes it easier for these large dogs to eat comfortably without having to stretch their necks down low to reach their food. Dogs should never be exercised just before or just after they have eaten either because this puts them more a risk of suffering from bloat.
Average Cost to keep/care for a Caucasian Shepherd Dog
If you are looking to buy a Caucasian Shepherd, you would need to pay anything from £500 to over £1500 for a well-bred pedigree puppy. The cost of insuring a male 3-year-old Caucasian Shepherd Dog in northern England would be £19.20 a month for basic cover but for a lifetime policy, this would set you back £41.22 a month (quote as of June 2016). When insurance companies calculate a pet's premium, they factor in several things which includes where you live in the UK and a dog's age and whether or not they have been neutered or spayed.
When it comes to food costs, you need to buy the best quality food whether wet or dry, to feed your dog throughout their lives making sure it suits the different stages of their lives. This would set you back between £50 - £60 a month. On top of all of this, you would need to factor in veterinary costs if you want to share your home with a Caucasian Shepherd Dog and this includes their initial vaccinations, their annual boosters, the cost of neutering or spaying your dog when the time is right and their yearly health checks, all of which quickly adds up to over a £1000 a year.
As a rough guide, the average cost to keep and care for a Caucasian Shepherd Dpg would be between £80 to £110 a month depending on the level of insurance cover you opt to buy for your dog, but this does not include the initial cost of buying a pedigree puppy.
02. Pit Bull
A very popular breed of strong dogs and many times accountable for cases of attacking humans. This is the resulting breed when you combine the energy and agility of terriers and the body build and strength of a bulldog. In some countries, Pit Bulls are even used in dog fights, where the dogs are trained to fight each other in a death match.Introduction
The American Pit Bull Terrier, also known at times as the Pit Bull, the Pit Bull Terrier, the American Bull, the American Pit Bull, the American Pit Bull Dog, the Pit Dog, the Half-and-Half, the American Bull Terrier, the Yankee Terrier, the Yankee Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Terrier, descends from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier of England. This is a well-balanced dog whose tremendous strength is unusual for its moderate size. Pit Bulls, who are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, share a common history with the AKC-recognized American Staffordshire Terrier. Pit Bulls, like Am Staffs, are stocky, powerful yet agile, well-muscled and highly intelligent. Although descended from dogs bred for bull baiting and pit fighting, and unfortunately still used by unscrupulous owners in illegal dog fighting circles, Pit Bulls have many remarkable qualities, including their gameness, trainability, loyalty and affection.
The Staffordshire Terrier was accepted for registration in the American Kennel Club Stud Book in 1936. The name of the breed was revised in 1972 to the American Staffordshire Terrier, to distinguish it from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier of England, which is much lighter in weight. The American Pit Bull Terrier was the first breed registered with the United Kennel Club, in 1898. Pit Bulls and Am Staffs are virtually the same animal, with different club registrations. Most Pit Bulls are between 17 and 19 inches at the withers and weigh on average between 60 and 80 pounds. Their short, stiff, glossy coat can be of any color or color combination. Pit Bulls require minimal grooming; brushing with a firm-bristled brush and an occasional bath should suffice.
The American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the so-called bully breeds often labeled a pit bull. In fact, "pit bull" isn't a breed, but a term used to describe the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Some people say the American Pit Bull Terrier is the same as the American Staffordshire Terrier. Others, just as forcefully, say they're entirely different breeds.
But all experts can agree that the confusion started with a decision by the AKC in the early 1930s to give it a new name, American Staffordshire Terrier, to separate it from its pit-fighting past. The American Pit Bull Terrier has not been recognized by the AKC, while the American Staffordshire Terrier, which is slightly smaller, has been.
The bull breeds are often grossly misunderstood. The qualities that make these dogs tenacious players in obedience and agility games also attract highly unscrupulous people looking for strong competitors for their dog fighting rings. The sorry result is that bull breeds, in particular the APBT, have gained a reputation over recent years for being dangerous.
Nothing could be further from the truth. But rampant misinformation and fear caused by the actions of a minority of dogs kept by criminally negligent people have provoked legislation against the breed in a number of cities and countries around the world.
As the owner of an American Pit Bull Terrier you must be aware that you may be met with anger and hostility by people who are misinformed about your wonderful dog. This is not a breed for everyone, especially those who aren't willing to invest time in training and socialization and can't or won't provide consistent firm guidance.
When raised with the proper training and socialization, the American Pit Bull Terrier makes an excellent companion for children. He is loving and gentle with people and often makes a lousy guard dog because of his tail-wagging eagerness to greet the person at the door. American Pit Bull Terriers are devoted and loyal to their family and will, if necessary, defend them to the death.
These dogs are extremely intelligent and learn commands and tricks with ease. They have a zest for life and love to be involved in everything going on around them. They maintain a puppyish demeanor well into adulthood, and that vitality makes them a joy to live with. Once you have met and gotten to know this breed you will wonder how you ever lived without one.
Highlights
American Pit Bull Terriers are not a good choice for people who can give them little or no attention.
They must be trained and socialized when young to overcome the breed's tendencies toward stubbornness and bossiness, which combined with his strength can make him hard to handle if he hasn't learned you are in charge.
Your American Pit Bull Terrier must be kept on leash in public to prevent aggression toward other dogs. It's not a good idea to let these dogs run loose in dog parks. While they might not start a fight, they'll never back down from one, and they fight to the finish. American Pit Bulls who aren't properly socialized as puppies can become aggressive toward other dogs.
Breed-specific legislation almost always includes this breed. Be aware of rules in your area as well as neighboring regions if you travel with your dog.
American Pit Bull Terriers have a great need to chew, and powerful jaws make quick work of cheap or flimsy toys. Give yours only tough, durable toys that can't be chewed up and swallowed.
American Pit Bull Terriers are best suited to owners who can offer firm, fair training, and gentle consistent discipline.
History
Bull and terrier breeds were created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull- and bear-baiting. When those sports were deemed inhumane and became illegal 1835, dog-fighting sprung up in its place — and thus was the trait for dog aggression bred into the genetic line.
But another part of this breed's genetic makeup is an unwillingness to bite humans. Handlers reaching into the dog-fighting rings wanted to be able to separate dogs without getting hurt themselves. Quite soon the breed developed a reputation as a strong, protective dog, but one also known for being gentle and family-friendly.
When these "bull dogs" accompanied immigrants to America they began new careers as all-around farm dogs. Their jobs included hunting wild game, guarding the property from animal intruders, and providing companionship. In keeping with the "bigger is better" mindset of their new country, the settlers developed a dog larger than it had been in England.
In 1898 the UKC, Britain's equivalent of the AKC, named these bull dogs the American Pit Bull Terrier. The AKC decided to recognize the breed in the early 1930s — but under a new name. Intending to separate it from its pit-fighting past, the AKC named it the American Staffordshire Terrier.
Since then the American Staffordshire Terrier has been bred for AKC conformation, or dog shows, while the American Pit Bull Terrier has not been. The results are very slight differences in build and in personality.
Size
Height of 18 to 19 inches for males, 17 to 18 inches for females. Weight ranges from 30 to 85 pounds.
Personality
These dogs love people and have no idea that their size is something of a deterrent to being a lap dog. Confident and keenly aware of their surroundings, they are watchdogs in that they may alert you to the presence of strangers, but that's primarily because they're eager to greet "their" guests.
While their love of people makes them failures as guard dogs, their courage is unmatched and they will defend their family with their lives.
Like every dog, American Pit Bull Terriers need early socialization — exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences — when they're young. Socialization helps ensure that your your puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog.
Health
American Pit Bull Terriers are generally healthy, but as with all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Not all American Pit Bulls Terriers will get any or all of these diseases, but it's important to be aware of them if you're considering this breed.
Hip Dysplasia (HD): This condition is a malformation of the hip joint ball and socket. It can be extremely painful depending on the severity of the condition. Dogs who are going to be bred should have x-rays of their hips done at 2 years of age to ensure they do not have this condition.
Allergies: Allergies are quite common in APBT/AmStaffs. Skin allergies are typically caused by such environmental allergens as fleas, grass, pollen, and dust.They can also be food related, but this is less common. Common food allergens include beef, rice, wheat, and corn. Allergies can cause intense itching and discomfort, which means dogs will dig and chew sometimes till they bleed. This is risky because secondary infections can develop in the damaged tissue. To treat allergies, the cause must be identified and removed from the dog's environment if possible. A veterinarian can help you with this, as well as let you know which allergy symptoms can be controlled with medication.
Hypothyroidism: This is a dysfunction of the thyroid gland that causes weight gain, poor coat, reproductive problems and other issues. It usually occurs in middle-aged dogs and can be controlled with daily medication that must continue throughout the dog's life.
Heart Disease: Heart disease affects these dogs in several forms, with aortic stenosis being most common. Aortic stenosis is a congenital heart defect, meaning it's something the dog is born with. It's an abnormal narrowing of the connection between the left ventricle and the aorta. Some dogs don't have any signs or only minor signs, while others may have little energy or even die suddenly. If your veterinarian hears a heart murmur, a chest x-ray and electrocardiogram can confirm the diagnosis.
Care
Expect to spend about an hour a day walking, playing with or otherwise exercising this dog. While they love people, American Pit Bull Terriers are strong for their size and can be stubborn if left to their own devices. Begin obedience training early and continue it throughout the dog's life. Training is the foundation for a strong relationship with your American Pit Bull Terrier.
American Pit Bull Terriers should not be left outside for long because they can't tolerate the cold well. Even regardless the climate, these dogs do best as housedogs. They form strong attachments to their families and will suffer if left alone for long periods.
Feeding
Recommended daily amount: 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don't all need the same amount of food. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference — the better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog and the less of it you'll need to shake into your dog's bowl.
To prevent obesity, measure your dog's food and give meals at set times each day rather than leaving food out all the time. He should have a waist when you look down at him, and you should be able to feel his ribs beneath a layer of muscle but not see them. If the ribs are buried beneath rolls of fat, your dog needs to go on a diet.
For more on feeding your American Pit Bull Terrier, see our guidelines for buying the right food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog.
Coat Color And Grooming
The short coat is shiny and stiff to the touch, and comes in all colors — red, blue, brown, grey, black and white, and brindle, among them.
They require little grooming, and have a coat that's easy to keep clean with the occasional bath. Brushing with a stiff brush and wiping down with a cloth will maintain the coat's shine.
Brush your dog's teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath.
Trim his nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn't wear them down naturally to prevent painful tears and other problems. If you can hear them clicking on the floor, they're too long. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. So, if you're not experienced trimming dog nails, ask a vet or groomer for pointers.
His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. When you check your dog's ears, wipe them out with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to help prevent infections. Don't insert anything into the ear canal; just clean the outer ear.
Accustom your American Pit Bull Terrier to being brushed and examined when he's a puppy. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. Make grooming a positive experience filled with praise and rewards, and you'll lay the groundwork for easy veterinary exams and other handling when he's an adult.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Children And Other Pets
American Pit Bull Terriers love children, and we don't mean for breakfast. Sturdy, energetic, and tolerant, they are ideal playmates. That said, no dog of any size or breed should ever be left unsupervised with children.
When no adult can be there to oversee what's going on, dogs should be crated or kenneled, especially after they reach sexual maturity, when they may begin to test the possibility of becoming "pack" leader.
Don't allow children to pull on a dog's ears or tail. Teach them never to approach any dog while he's sleeping or eating or to try to take the dog's food away.
Because of their dog-fighting heritage, some American Pit Bull Terriers retain a tendency to be aggressive with other dogs, but if they are socialized early and trained to know what behavior is expected of them, that aggression can be minimized or overcome, and many are dog- and cat-friendly. Just to be safe, they should always be supervised in the presence of other pets.
03. Perro de Presa Canario
Often described as strong-willed and dominant dog. Perro de Presa Canario, which is Spanish for “Canarian Catch Dog” also known as the Canary Mastiff. Used as working dog for farm animals, but is a combination of several breed of fighting dogs. There are rumors that like the Pit Bull, this breed is also used in deadly dog fights
The Presa Canario is an impressive, powerful dog that looks very much like the Mastiff and it's thought that they may well have some English Mastiff in their ancestry. They are native to the Canary Islands where they were bred to work as farm dogs and although they might look imposing, they are known to be affectionate and loyal characters that make excellent companions.
They are also renowned for being extremely good watchdogs that don’t need to be trained to protect because this is a trait that comes naturally to the breed. The Presa Canario is still popular in the Canary Islands, but they are lesser known in the UK although they are among some of the more popular with people familiar with the breed. For the moment, the Presa Canario is not a Kennel Club registered breed, but they are recognised by the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club.
History
The Presa Canario was first bred in the Canary Islands as a working farm dog and it's thought they were developed during the 15th and 16th centuries when the Spanish conquistadores bought mastiffs-type dogs with them to the islands. They crossed their dogs with the now extinct Bardino Majero as well as other breeds which included the Iberian Presa, Alanos-type bulldogs and English Mastiffs to produce a robust, loyal and courageous working dog whether they were asked to protect livestock from prey, guard property or wrangle cattle. It is also thought that Hispanic breeds like the Presa Espanol were also introduced into the mix too.
It was during the 18th Century that English traders, merchants and colonist introduced their dogs to the Canary Islands. These were the dogs that predated Mastiffs and Bulldogs and which were known as Tiedogs and Bandogges. A little later, other breeds were introduced to the islands by the English which included the Bull Terrier and Bulldogs which they proceeded to cross with the Perro de Presa a native breed that is now extinct although just how much these breeds eventually influence the Presa Canario remains unknown.
The Presa Canario proved to be popular fighting dogs right up until a law was passed banning the blood sport in the 1940's. Breed numbers dropped because of the ban and because other breeds were appearing on the scene which included the German Shepherd Dog and the Dobermann Pinscher, both of which became an extremely popular choice as family pets and companions in the Canary Islands. This meant the Presa Canario was only really seen working on farms and as guard dogs rather than being chosen as a family pet or companion dog.
It was not until the 1970's that interest in the breed was revived when dedicated enthusiasts set about resurrecting the breed to be a strong, very large, outgoing, confident and calm dog that boasted being extremely territorial and protective. The Presa Canario has always been renowned for defending his owner and property without ever backing down which is a trait that that has been highly prized in the breed.
In 1982, a breed club was established in the Canary Islands which was recognised by the Real Canine Society Central of Spain or RSCFRCE. These impressive dogs were subsequently recognised as being part of the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service in 1996. The United Kennel Club recognised the Presa Canario in 2003, but these large and impressive dogs are yet to be accepted as a breed by The Kennel Club.
Today, the Presa Canario has fast become a popular breed in the UK with breeders taking great care to produce good natured, well-balanced healthy dogs that make wonderful family pets and companions. However, anyone wishing to share their home with a Presa Canario would need to register their interest with breeders and agree to being put on a waiting list because very few puppies are bred every year. It’s worth noting that finding insurance cover for a Presa Canario can prove quite challenging too and the premiums tend to be a lot higher than for many other breeds.
Interesting facts about the breed
Is the Presa Canario a vulnerable breed? No, although the Presa Canario is considered a "rare" breed which means that anyone wishing to share a home with one, would need to go on a waiting list for the pleasure of doing so. Currently the Presa Canario is ranked 89 out of 238 breeds on the Pets4homes website
The Presa Canario is recognised as a breed by the United Kennel Club (UKC) under their original name of "Perro de Presa Canario"
The breed is recognised by the American Kennel Club
Records of the Presa Canario can be traced back to the 15th and 16th Century
Some breeds have traditionally had their tails docked, a practice that has been going on throughout time. In 1993, that a law was passed preventing anyone other than a vet from carrying out the procedure, but this was further changed when The Animal Health and Welfare Act (Scotland) came into effect in 2006 which invoked a total ban on tail docking unless for medical reasons. In other parts of the UK, the Animal Welfare Act came into effect in April 2007 which meant that dog's tails could no longer be docked unless they fell into the category of a specific "working" dog or for medical reasons providing the correct paperwork has been submitted by a qualified vet who would undertake to carry out the procedure. There is a heavy fine for anyone who has a dog’s tail docked without submitting the necessary paperwork to the right authorities
Appearance
Height at the withers: Males 60 - 65 cm, Females 56 - 61 cm at the withers
Average weight: Males 50 - 59 kg, Females 38 - 50 kg
The Presa Canario is a large and impressive dog and one that looks very much like an English Mastiff having the breed in their bloodlines. They have very large heads with their ears being set just above a dog's eye level. They have a well-defined stop and nice, symmetrical wrinkles which are never too excessive. Their skulls are slightly dome shaped and broad and dogs have a deep median furrow and well-developed cheeks, but not overly so.
Their muzzles taper slightly to the nose with the bridge being straight and flat. Their lips are quite pendulous and moderately thick being black in colour, but dogs don't have pronounced flews. When seen from the front, a dog's lips should give the impression of being an inverted "V" where they join in the centre. The Presa Canario has a strong jaw with either a scissor or a reverse scissor bite with some dogs having a level or a little undershot bite which is acceptable.
They have wide, black noses and their eyes are a little oval shaped being set wide apart on a dog's head. Eyes can be a range of colours which includes medium through to dark brown so it matches a dog's coat colour, but their eyelids are always black and tight fitting. The Presa Canario has a very well-muscled, thick set neck with loose skin around the throat which forms a little bit of a dewlap. They have muscular, well laid-back shoulders and strong, powerful front legs that show a good amount of bone.
They are slightly longer in the body than they are tall at their wither and they have extremely broad, deep chests with the female boasting a slightly longer body and less well sprung ribs than their male counterparts. Their withers are a little raised and they have strong backs and loins that are not overly muscled. Croups are moderately long being wide and a little sloping with females boasting slightly wider croups. Their loins are quite short, deep and very muscular with dogs being moderately tucked up.
They have well arched ribs with briskets that drop down to the elbow. Chests are broad and deep with dogs having nicely developed pectoral muscles. They have powerful hindquarters with strong, well-muscled back legs. Their feet are compact and round being very cat-like with a dog’s back feet being longer than their front feet. They have well developed paw pads and strong nails that match a dog's coat colour. Their tails are set moderately high being thicker at the base before tapering to the tip. Dogs carry their tails like a sabre when excited or alert, but down when they are relaxed.
When it comes to their coat, the Presa boasts having a single coat that lies flat to the body and which is harsh to the touch. The hair on a dog's withers and on the back of their hind legs is a little longer than on the rest of the body. The most commonly seen colours include the following:
Fawn - any shade
Black - any combination of black and brindle
Brindle - any combination of brindle and black
A dog's face to have a dark brown or black mask, but it must not go over a dog's eyes and Presas can have a white blaze or a white patch on their heads. Dogs can also have a small amount of white on their throats, chests and toes.
Gait/movement
When a Presa Canario moves, they do so with great purpose taking long and effortless strides and covering a lot of ground when they do. Presas hold their tails above their backs when trotting.
Faults
Prospective Presa Canario owners should be wary of any puppies or dogs that show any sort of exaggeration whether in their looks or conformation. A responsible breeder would always ensure that puppies they produce are of a good size and have conformation as well as calm temperaments. Males should have both testicles fully descended into their scrotums.
Temperament
Presas may be imposing and impressive to look at, but they are known to be calm, well-behaved and placid dogs that thrive in a home environment, loving nothing more than to be included in everything that goes on around them. They are naturally suspicious of people they have never met before which is why they have always been highly prized as watchdogs in the Canary Islands.
With this said, because the Presa Canario is a large and imposing dog, they need to be trained correctly from a young age so they understand their place in the pack and who is the alpha dog in a household or they might take on this role. They are not the best choice for first time owners because they need to be handled and trained by people who are familiar with the needs of this type of large and dominant dog.
A puppy's training must start as soon as they arrive in their new home by teaching them the "basics" and the boundaries although a Presa may well test these throughout their lives which is why their training and handling must be consistent so that dogs understand what is expected of them. Once they have settled in to their new environment, they form strong bonds with their owners and will naturally protect them should ever they feel their families are being threatened.
It cannot be stressed strongly enough the importance of socialising a Presa from a young age which must include introducing them to lots of new situations, noises, people, other animals and dogs once they have been fully vaccinated so they grow up to be more relaxed, outgoing mature characters. However, because the Presa is naturally protective, it's important to bear in mind that no matter how much socialisation they are given, these dogs will want to guard and protect their owners and their property because it is deeply embedded into their psyche to do so.
Because they are so intelligent, they need to be given lots of things to occupy their minds and they need enough daily exercise for them to be truly happy, well-rounded dogs. If they are not given enough of either, a Presa would quickly start to show signs of boredom which could result in their developing some unwanted and destructive behaviours around the home which is their way of relieving any stress they may be feeling, and not necessarily because they are being naughty.
Are they a good choice for first time owners?
Presas are not the best choice for first time dog owners because, as previously mentioned they are better suited to people who are familiar with their specific needs and who know how to train and handle such a powerful and intelligent dog.
What about prey drive?
The Presa Canario has a high prey drive and they are naturally protective and territorial too. As such, care should always when they are around other animals and pets they don't already know. Care should also be taken as to where and when a Presa can run off the lead more especially if there are other dogs and animals around.
What about playfulness?
Presas may look intimidating, but they have a very playful side to their natures and love to entertain and be entertained by the people they love. With this said, puppies and young dogs need to be taught how to "play nicely" so that they don't end up knocking anyone over or pulling them down to the ground. It's best to teach a Presa puppy that playtime takes place outdoors and in the house which could end up with quite a few breakages.
What about adaptability?
The Presa Canario is better suited to people who live in houses with secure back gardens and are not really suited to apartment living. They need enough space to express themselves and safe areas they can run free whenever possible so they get to really let off steam.
What about separation anxiety?
The Presa Canario forms a strong tie with an owner and dogs are never very happy when they find themselves left on their own for longer periods of time. They are better suited to people who either work from home or in households where one person stays at home when everyone else is out so they are never alone for any length of time which could see a dog suffering from separation anxiety. This can lead to them being destructive around the home which is a dog's way of relieving any stress they are feeling and a way to keep themselves entertained.
What about excessive barking?
The Presa is not known to be a "barker", but they are protective of their owners and property which means they are always quick to let them know when something they don't like is going on or when there are strangers about. With this said, any dog that's left on their own for too long, might start barking incessantly to get attention and to alert their owners how unhappy they are at the situation. It is also worth noting that a Presa will not back down when threatened.
Do Presa Canarios like water?
Most Presas like swimming and will take to the water whenever they can more especially when the weather is hot. However, if anyone who owns a dog that does not like water should never force them to go in because it would just end up scaring them. With this said, care should always be taken when walking a Presa Canario off the lead anywhere near more dangerous watercourses just in case a dog decides to leap in and then needs rescuing because they can't get out of the water on their own.
Are Presa Canarios good watchdogs?
The Presa Canario is a natural watchdog and they do not need to be taught to guard and protect because these are traits that are deeply embedded in a dog's psyche. It would be a mistake to teach these dogs to protect which could end up making them more dominant and aggressive which in turn makes them harder to handle and live with.
Intelligence / Trainability
A Presa Canario's training must begin early and it must be consistent throughout a dog's life so they understand what is expected of them. They are not the best choice for first time owners because it's essential for these powerful dogs to be handled and trained by people who are familiar with their needs. Puppies must be taught the "basics" from the word go and once they've been fully vaccinated, to enrol them into puppy classes which is the best way of socialising them in a safe and controlled environment surrounded by other dogs and people. It's also a very good way of beginning their training in earnest.
The Presa is a very smart dog and a quick learner. The downside to this is they are just as quick to pick up bad habits as they are the good. They are never happier than when they are given something to do, but they need to be handled with a firm, yet gentle and always fair hand. They do not respond well to heavy handed training methods which would more than likely bring the worst out of these dogs. They do respond well to positive reinforcement especially when a dog is given a high value reward for getting it right.
The key to successfully training a Presa is to make their training as interesting as possible and to avoid too much repetition. It's also a good idea to keep training sessions that much shorter which helps keep a dog more focused on what they are being asked to do bearing in mind that the more intelligent a dog is, the faster they get bored.
Like all puppies, the Presa is adorable when young, but they quickly grow into impressive and powerful mature dogs. As such, owners need to start out as they mean to go on which means setting out rules and boundaries so that a Presa puppy understands not only what an owner expects of them, but it also helps establish their place in the pack. The first commands a puppy should be taught are as follows:
Come
Sit
Stay
Quiet
Leave it
Down
Bed
Children and Other Pets
The Presa Canario is a docile dog by nature even though they look imposing. They are a good choice for families with older children who know how to behave around dogs and when to leave them alone. They are not best suited to households with toddlers because a Presa could easily knock a small child over, albeit by accident but never intentionally.
Pets4homes advises that the Presa Canario is not the best choice for families with babies or very young children. Anyone who already shares a home with a Presa Canario and who have younger children should always make sure they are never left together unattended. It is also crucial for parents to teach young children how to behave around dogs and when to stay away from them, particularly when there is food around or during playtime.
Even when well socialised from a young enough age, a Presa may show aggression towards other dogs they meet which is why care must be taken as to where and when they can run off their leads in any public places. Males are known to be quite intolerant of other male dogs which is another thing to bear in mind when sharing a home with a Presa Canario. Care must be taken when they are anywhere near any smaller animals and pets which includes cats because these dogs boast having a high prey drive. As such any contacted is best avoided.
For further advice please read our article on Keeping Children Safe around Dogs.
Presa Canario Health
The average life expectancy of a Presa Canario is between 9 and 11 years when properly cared for and fed an appropriate good quality diet to suit their ages.
The Presa is known to suffer from a few hereditary health issues which are worth knowing about if you are planning share your home with one of these active and good-looking dogs. The conditions that seem to affect the breed the most include the following:
Hip dysplasia - Breeders should have stud dogs hip scored through the Animal Health Trust (AHT)
Elbow dysplasia - Breeders should have stud dogs tested
Osteochondritis dissecans panosteitis
Arthritis - mainly seen in older Presas
Entropion (Eyelids Folding Inwards)
Hypothyroidism
Demodectic mange
Epilepsy
Cryptorchidism
Obesity
Bloat - gastric torsion
What about vaccinations?
Presa puppies would have been given their initial vaccinations before being sold, but it is up to their new owners to make sure they have their follow-up shots in a timely manner with the vaccination schedule for puppies being as follows:
10 -12 weeks old, bearing in mind that a puppy would not have full protection straight away, but would be fully protected 2 weeks after they have had their second vaccination
There has been a lot of discussion about the need for dogs to have boosters. As such, it's best to talk to a vet before making a final decision on whether a dog should continue to have annual vaccinations which are known as boosters.
What about spaying and neutering?
A lot of vets these days recommend waiting until dogs are slightly older before spaying and neutering them which means they are more mature before undergoing the procedures. As such they advise neutering males and spaying females when they are between the ages of 6 to 9 months old and sometimes even when a dog is 12 months old.
Other vets recommend spaying and neutering dogs when they are 6 months old, but never any earlier unless for medical reasons. With this said, many breeds are different and it is always advisable to discuss things with a vet and then follow their advice on when a dog should be spayed or neutered.
What about obesity problems?
Some Presas gain weight after they have been spayed or neutered and it's important to keep an eye on a dog's waistline just in case they do. If a dog starts to put on weight it's important to adjust their daily calorie intake and to up the amount of exercise they are given. Older dogs too are more prone to gaining weight and again it's essential they be fed and exercised accordingly because obesity can shorten a dog's life by several years. The reason being that it puts a lot of extra strain on a dog's internal organs including the heart which could prove fatal.
What about allergies?
Some Presa Canarios are prone to suffering from allergies and it's important for a dog to see a vet sooner rather than later if one flares up, more especially as some Presas can develop demodectic mange. Allergies can be notoriously hard to clear up and finding the triggers can be challenging. With this said, a vet would be able to make a dog with an allergy more comfortable while they try to find out the triggers which could include the following:
Certain foods that contain high volumes of wheat or other cereal fillers
Airborne pollens
Dust mites
Environment
Flea and tick bites
Chemicals found in everyday household cleaning products
Participating in health schemes
All responsible Presa Canario breeders would ensure that their stud dogs are tested for known hereditary and congenital health issues known to affect the breed by using the following schemes:
Hip scoring - test available through the Animal Health Trust (AHT)
Elbow testing - test available through the Animal Health Trust (AHT)
What about breed specific breeding restrictions?
There are no breed specific breeding restrictions in place for the Presa Canario, but all breeders should follow the Kennel Club breeding recommendations even though Presas are not KC recognised to ensure puppies are responsibly bred and healthy.
What about Assured Breeder Requirements?
There are no Assured Breeder requirements in place for Presa Canarios because they are not a Kennel Club registered breed. However, all prospective owners should contact reputable breeders who routinely have their stud dogs tested for known hereditary and congenital health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia.
Caring for a Presa Canario
As with any other breed, Presas need to be groomed on a regular basis to make sure their coats and skin are kept in top condition more especially as some dogs are prone to suffering from demotic mange. They also need to be given regular daily exercise to ensure they remain fit and healthy. On top of this, dogs need to be fed good quality food that meets all their nutritional needs throughout their lives.
Caring for a Presa Canario puppy
Presa puppies are boisterous and full of life which means it's essential for homes and gardens to be puppy-proofed well in advance of their arrival. A responsible breeder would have well socialised their puppies which always leads to more outgoing, confident and friendly dogs right from the word go. With this said, any puppy is going to feel vulnerable when they leave their mother and littermates which must be taken into account. The longer a puppy can remain with their mother, the better although it should never be for too long either.
It's best to pick a puppy up when people are going to be around for the first week or so which is the time needed for a puppy to settle in. Puppy-proofing the home and garden means putting away any tools and other implements that a boisterous puppy might injure themselves on. Electric wires and cables must be put out of their reach because puppies love chewing on things. Toxic plants should be removed from flowerbeds and the home too.
Puppies need to sleep a lot to grow and develop as they should which means setting up a quiet area that's not too out of the way means they can retreat to it when they want to nap and it's important not to disturb them when they are sleeping. It's also a good idea to keep "playtime" nice and calm inside the house and to have a more active "playtime" outside in the garden which means puppies quickly learn to be less boisterous when they are inside.
The documentation a breeder provides for a puppy must have all the details of their worming date and the product used as well as the information relating to their microchip. It is essential for puppies to be wormed again keeping to a schedule which is as follows:
Puppies should be wormed at 6 months old
They need to be wormed again when they are 8 months old
Puppies should be wormed when they are 10 months old
They need to be wormed when they are 12 months old
Things you'll need for your puppy
There are certain items that new owners need to already have in the home prior to bringing a new puppy home. It's often a good idea to restrict how much space a puppy plays in more especially when you can't keep an eye on what they get up to bearing in mind that puppies are often quite boisterous which means investing in puppy gates or a large enough playpen that allows a Presa puppy the room to express themselves while keeping them safe too. The items needed are therefore, as follows:
Good quality puppy or baby gates to fit on doors
A good well-made playpen that's large enough for a puppy to play in so they can really express themselves as puppies like to do
Lots of well-made toys which must include good quality chews suitable for puppies to gnaw on, bearing in mind that a puppy will start teething anything from when they are 3 to 8 months old
Good quality feed and water bowls which ideally should be ceramic rather than plastic or metal
A grooming glove
A slicker brush or soft bristle brush
Dog specific toothpaste and a toothbrush
Scissors with rounded ends
Nail clippers
Puppy shampoo and conditioner which must be specifically formulated for use on dogs
A well-made dog collar or harness
A couple of strong dog leads
A well-made dog bed that's not too small or too big
A well-made dog crate for use in the car and in the home, that's large enough for a puppy to move around in
Baby blankets to put in your puppy's crate and in their beds for when they want to nap or go to sleep at night
Keeping the noise down
All puppies are sensitive to noise including Presa Canario puppies. It's important to keep the noise levels down when a new puppy arrives in the home. TVs and music should not be played too loud which could end up stressing a small puppy out.
Keeping vet appointments
As previously mentioned, Presa puppies would have been given their first vaccinations by the breeders, but they must have their follow up shots which is up to their new owners to organise. The vaccination schedule for puppies is as follows:
10 -12 weeks old, bearing in mind that a puppy would not have full protection straight away, but would only be fully protected 2 weeks after they have had their second vaccination
When it comes to boosters, it's best to discuss these with a vet because there is a lot of debate about whether a dog really needs them after a certain time. However, if a dog ever needed to go into kennels, their vaccinations would need to be
What about older Presa Canarios when they reach their senior years?
Older Presas need lots of special care because as they reach their golden years, they are more at risk of developing certain health concerns. Physically, a dog's muzzle may start to go grey, but there will be other noticeable changes too which includes the following:
Coats become coarser
A loss of muscle tone
Presas can either become overweight or underweight
They have reduced strength and stamina
Older dogs have difficulty regulating their body temperature
They often develop arthritis
Immune systems do not work as efficiently as they once did which means dogs are more susceptible to infections
Older dogs change mentally too which means their response time tends to be slower as such they develop the following:
They respond less to external stimuli due to impaired vision or hearing
They tend to be a little pickier about their food
They have a lower pain threshold
Become intolerant of any change
Often an older dog can feel disorientated
Living with a Presa in their golden years means taking on a few more responsibilities, but these are easily managed and should include looking at their diet, the amount of exercise they are given, how often their dog beds need changing and keeping an eye on the condition of their teeth.
Older Presas need to be fed a good quality diet that meets their needs at this stage of their lives all the while keeping a close eye on a dog's weight. A rough feeding guide for older dogs is as follows bearing in mind they should be fed highly digestible food that does not contain any additives:
Protein content should be anything from 14 – 21%
Fat content should be less than 10%
Fibre content should be less than 4%
Calcium content should be 0.5 – 0.8%
Phosphorous content should be 0.4 – 0.7%
Sodium content should be 0.2 – 0.4%
Older Presas don't need to be given the same amount of daily exercise as a younger dog, but they still need the right amount of physical activity to maintain muscle tone and to prevent a dog from putting on too much weight. All dogs need access to fresh clean water and this is especially true of older dogs when they reach their golden years because they are more at risk of developing kidney disorders.
Grooming
The Presa Canario boasts having a smooth, flat coat that lies close to the body. As such they are low maintenance on the grooming front. All it takes is a weekly brush and wipe over with a chamois leather to keep their coats looking shiny and to remove any loose and dead hair. They shed steadily throughout the year only more so during the Spring and then again in the Autumn when more frequent grooming is usually necessary to keep on top of things.
It's also important to check a dog's ears on a regular basis and to clean them when necessary. If too much wax builds up in a dog's ears, it can lead to a painful infection which can be hard to clear up. In short, prevention is often easier than cure when it comes to ear infections.
Exercise
The Presa is not a high energy dog, but they still need the right amount of exercise every day combined with as much mental stimulation as possible to prevent them from getting bored. They need from 40 to 60 minute’s exercise a day with as much off the lead time as possible, but only in a safe and secure environment and not around other dogs. If they are not given the right amount of mental stimulation and exercise every day, a Presa would quickly get bored and could even begin to show some destructive behaviours around the home which is their way of relieving any stress they are feeling and not necessarily because they are being naughty.
A shorter walk in the morning would be fine, but a longer more interesting one in the afternoon is a must with as much off the lead time as possible. These dogs also like to be able to roam around a back garden as often as possible so they can really let off steam. However, the fencing must be extremely secure to keep these smart dogs in because if they find a weakness in the fence, they will soon escape and could get into all sorts of trouble, bearing in mind that Presas are very capable of jumping a six-foot high fence with the greatest of ease.
With this said, Presa puppies should not be over exercised because their joints and bones are still growing. This includes not letting a dog jump up and down from furniture or going up or down the stairs. Too much pressure placed on their joints and spines at an early age could result in a dog developing serious problems later in their lives.
Feeding
If you get a Presa puppy from a breeder, they would give you a feeding schedule and it's important to stick to the same routine, feeding the same puppy food to avoid any tummy upsets. You can change a puppy's diet, but this needs to be done very gradually always making sure they don't develop any digestive upsets and if they do, it's best to put them back on their original diet and to discuss things with the vet before attempting to change it again.
Older dogs are not known to be fussy eaters, but this does not mean they can be given a lower quality diet. It's best to feed a mature dog twice a day, once in the morning and then again in the evening, making sure it's good quality food that meets all their nutritional requirements. It's also important that dogs be given the right amount of exercise so they burn off any excess calories or they might gain too much weight which can lead to all sorts of health issues. Obesity can shorten a dog's life by several years so it's important to keep an eye on their waistline from the word go.
Because Presas are known to suffer from bloat, it is important for them to be fed twice a day instead of giving a dog one larger meal a day. It's also a good idea to invest in a stand for their feed bowls which makes it easier for dogs to eat comfortably without having to stretch their necks down to reach their food. Dogs should never be exercised just before or just after they have eaten either because this puts them more at risk of suffering from gastric torsion.
Feeding guide for a Presa Canario puppy
Puppies need to be fed a highly nutritious, good quality diet for them to develop and grow as they should. As a rough guide, a Presa puppy can be fed the following amounts every day making sure their meals are evenly spread out throughout the day and it's best to feed them 3 or 4 times a day:
2 months old - 309g to 354g depending on puppy's build
3 months old - 406g to 464g depending on puppy's build
4 months old - 449g to 516g depending on puppy's build
5 months old - 534g to 618g depending on puppy's build
6 months old - 607g to 709g depending on puppy's build
7 months old - 609g to 716g depending on puppy's build
8 months old - 597g to 715g depending on puppy's build
9 months old - 557g to 661g depending on puppy's build
10 months old - 521g to 618g depending on puppy's build
11 months old - 476g to 573g depending on puppy's build
12 months old - 434g to 534g depending on puppy's build
13 months old - 431g to 498g depending on puppy's build
14 months old - 426g to 485g depending on puppy's build
Once a puppy is 18 months old they can be fed adult dog food.
Feeding guide for an adult Presa Canario
Once fully mature, an adult Presa Canario must be fed a good quality diet to ensure their continued good health. As a rough guide, an adult Presa can be fed the following amounts every day:
Dogs weighing 38 kg can be fed 354g to 479g depending on activity
Dogs weighing 40 kg can be fed 394g to 519g depending on activity
Dogs weighing 50 kg can be fed 458g to 603g depending on activity
Dogs weighing 59 kg can be fed 512g to 682g depending on activity
Average Cost to keep/care for a Presa Canario
If you are looking to buy a Presa Canario, you would need to register your interest with breeders and agree to being put on a waiting list because very few puppies are bred and registered with The Kennel Club every year. You would need to pay anything upwards of £500 for a well-bred puppy.
It can prove hard to get pet insurance cover for a Presa Canario and premiums may be higher than for most breeds because there’s a higher risk of owners having to make a claim. The cost of insuring a male 3-year-old Presa Canario in northern England would be £51.22 a month for basic cover but for a lifetime policy, this would set you back £94.03 a month (quote as of November 2017). When insurance companies calculate a pet's premium, they factor in several things which includes where you live in the UK, a dog's age and whether they have been neutered or spayed among other things.
When it comes to food costs, you need to buy the best quality food whether wet or dry making sure it suits the different stages of a dog’s life. This would set you back between £40 - £50 a month. On top of this, you need to factor in veterinary costs if you want to share your home with a Presa and this includes their initial vaccinations, their annual boosters, the cost of neutering or spaying a dog when the time is right and their yearly health checks, all of which quickly adds up to over £1200 a year.
As a rough guide, the average cost to keep and care for a Presa Canario would be between £100 to £150 a month depending on the level of insurance cover you opt to buy for your dog, but this does not include the initial cost of buying a responsibly bred, healthy Presa Canario puppy.
Presa Canario Buying Advice
Presas have fast become one of the more popular dogs both in the UK and elsewhere in the world which means that well-bred puppies command a lot of money. As such, with Presa Canarios there is specific advice, questions and protocols to follow when buying a puppy which are as follows:
Beware of online scams and how to avoid them. You may see online and other adverts by scammers showing images of beautiful Presa Canario puppies for sale at very low prices. However, the sellers ask buyers for money up front before agreeing to deliver a puppy to a new home. Potential buyers should never buy a puppy unseen and should never pay a deposit or any other money online to a seller. You should always visit the pet at the sellers home to confirm they are genuine and make a note of their address.
As previously touched upon, Presas are among some of the more popular breeds in the UK. As such, there are many amateur breeders/people who breed from dam far too often so they can make a quick profit without caring for the welfare of the puppies, their dam or the breed in general. Under Kennel Club rules, a dam can only produce 4 litters and she must be between a certain age to do so. Anyone wishing to buy a Presa Canario puppy should think very carefully about who they purchase their puppy from and should always ask to see the relevant paperwork pertaining to a puppy's lineage, their vaccinations and their microchipping.
Prospective Presa Canario owners should be very careful when considering buying a puppy with a docked tai. Tail docking is now illegal in the UK with some exceptions for working breeds, but the correct application forms must be submitted to the correct authorities by a qualified vet before the procedure can be carried out on a dog. There is a heavy fine for anyone who docks a dog's tail or who owns a dog with a docked tail where the correct permission has not been sought.
Prospective owners should also make sure that a puppy’s parents are good-natured dogs before committing to buying a Presa puppy.
They are also renowned for being extremely good watchdogs that don’t need to be trained to protect because this is a trait that comes naturally to the breed. The Presa Canario is still popular in the Canary Islands, but they are lesser known in the UK although they are among some of the more popular with people familiar with the breed. For the moment, the Presa Canario is not a Kennel Club registered breed, but they are recognised by the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club.
History
The Presa Canario was first bred in the Canary Islands as a working farm dog and it's thought they were developed during the 15th and 16th centuries when the Spanish conquistadores bought mastiffs-type dogs with them to the islands. They crossed their dogs with the now extinct Bardino Majero as well as other breeds which included the Iberian Presa, Alanos-type bulldogs and English Mastiffs to produce a robust, loyal and courageous working dog whether they were asked to protect livestock from prey, guard property or wrangle cattle. It is also thought that Hispanic breeds like the Presa Espanol were also introduced into the mix too.
It was during the 18th Century that English traders, merchants and colonist introduced their dogs to the Canary Islands. These were the dogs that predated Mastiffs and Bulldogs and which were known as Tiedogs and Bandogges. A little later, other breeds were introduced to the islands by the English which included the Bull Terrier and Bulldogs which they proceeded to cross with the Perro de Presa a native breed that is now extinct although just how much these breeds eventually influence the Presa Canario remains unknown.
The Presa Canario proved to be popular fighting dogs right up until a law was passed banning the blood sport in the 1940's. Breed numbers dropped because of the ban and because other breeds were appearing on the scene which included the German Shepherd Dog and the Dobermann Pinscher, both of which became an extremely popular choice as family pets and companions in the Canary Islands. This meant the Presa Canario was only really seen working on farms and as guard dogs rather than being chosen as a family pet or companion dog.
It was not until the 1970's that interest in the breed was revived when dedicated enthusiasts set about resurrecting the breed to be a strong, very large, outgoing, confident and calm dog that boasted being extremely territorial and protective. The Presa Canario has always been renowned for defending his owner and property without ever backing down which is a trait that that has been highly prized in the breed.
In 1982, a breed club was established in the Canary Islands which was recognised by the Real Canine Society Central of Spain or RSCFRCE. These impressive dogs were subsequently recognised as being part of the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service in 1996. The United Kennel Club recognised the Presa Canario in 2003, but these large and impressive dogs are yet to be accepted as a breed by The Kennel Club.
Today, the Presa Canario has fast become a popular breed in the UK with breeders taking great care to produce good natured, well-balanced healthy dogs that make wonderful family pets and companions. However, anyone wishing to share their home with a Presa Canario would need to register their interest with breeders and agree to being put on a waiting list because very few puppies are bred every year. It’s worth noting that finding insurance cover for a Presa Canario can prove quite challenging too and the premiums tend to be a lot higher than for many other breeds.
Interesting facts about the breed
Is the Presa Canario a vulnerable breed? No, although the Presa Canario is considered a "rare" breed which means that anyone wishing to share a home with one, would need to go on a waiting list for the pleasure of doing so. Currently the Presa Canario is ranked 89 out of 238 breeds on the Pets4homes website
The Presa Canario is recognised as a breed by the United Kennel Club (UKC) under their original name of "Perro de Presa Canario"
The breed is recognised by the American Kennel Club
Records of the Presa Canario can be traced back to the 15th and 16th Century
Some breeds have traditionally had their tails docked, a practice that has been going on throughout time. In 1993, that a law was passed preventing anyone other than a vet from carrying out the procedure, but this was further changed when The Animal Health and Welfare Act (Scotland) came into effect in 2006 which invoked a total ban on tail docking unless for medical reasons. In other parts of the UK, the Animal Welfare Act came into effect in April 2007 which meant that dog's tails could no longer be docked unless they fell into the category of a specific "working" dog or for medical reasons providing the correct paperwork has been submitted by a qualified vet who would undertake to carry out the procedure. There is a heavy fine for anyone who has a dog’s tail docked without submitting the necessary paperwork to the right authorities
Appearance
Height at the withers: Males 60 - 65 cm, Females 56 - 61 cm at the withers
Average weight: Males 50 - 59 kg, Females 38 - 50 kg
The Presa Canario is a large and impressive dog and one that looks very much like an English Mastiff having the breed in their bloodlines. They have very large heads with their ears being set just above a dog's eye level. They have a well-defined stop and nice, symmetrical wrinkles which are never too excessive. Their skulls are slightly dome shaped and broad and dogs have a deep median furrow and well-developed cheeks, but not overly so.
Their muzzles taper slightly to the nose with the bridge being straight and flat. Their lips are quite pendulous and moderately thick being black in colour, but dogs don't have pronounced flews. When seen from the front, a dog's lips should give the impression of being an inverted "V" where they join in the centre. The Presa Canario has a strong jaw with either a scissor or a reverse scissor bite with some dogs having a level or a little undershot bite which is acceptable.
They have wide, black noses and their eyes are a little oval shaped being set wide apart on a dog's head. Eyes can be a range of colours which includes medium through to dark brown so it matches a dog's coat colour, but their eyelids are always black and tight fitting. The Presa Canario has a very well-muscled, thick set neck with loose skin around the throat which forms a little bit of a dewlap. They have muscular, well laid-back shoulders and strong, powerful front legs that show a good amount of bone.
They are slightly longer in the body than they are tall at their wither and they have extremely broad, deep chests with the female boasting a slightly longer body and less well sprung ribs than their male counterparts. Their withers are a little raised and they have strong backs and loins that are not overly muscled. Croups are moderately long being wide and a little sloping with females boasting slightly wider croups. Their loins are quite short, deep and very muscular with dogs being moderately tucked up.
They have well arched ribs with briskets that drop down to the elbow. Chests are broad and deep with dogs having nicely developed pectoral muscles. They have powerful hindquarters with strong, well-muscled back legs. Their feet are compact and round being very cat-like with a dog’s back feet being longer than their front feet. They have well developed paw pads and strong nails that match a dog's coat colour. Their tails are set moderately high being thicker at the base before tapering to the tip. Dogs carry their tails like a sabre when excited or alert, but down when they are relaxed.
When it comes to their coat, the Presa boasts having a single coat that lies flat to the body and which is harsh to the touch. The hair on a dog's withers and on the back of their hind legs is a little longer than on the rest of the body. The most commonly seen colours include the following:
Fawn - any shade
Black - any combination of black and brindle
Brindle - any combination of brindle and black
A dog's face to have a dark brown or black mask, but it must not go over a dog's eyes and Presas can have a white blaze or a white patch on their heads. Dogs can also have a small amount of white on their throats, chests and toes.
Gait/movement
When a Presa Canario moves, they do so with great purpose taking long and effortless strides and covering a lot of ground when they do. Presas hold their tails above their backs when trotting.
Faults
Prospective Presa Canario owners should be wary of any puppies or dogs that show any sort of exaggeration whether in their looks or conformation. A responsible breeder would always ensure that puppies they produce are of a good size and have conformation as well as calm temperaments. Males should have both testicles fully descended into their scrotums.
Temperament
Presas may be imposing and impressive to look at, but they are known to be calm, well-behaved and placid dogs that thrive in a home environment, loving nothing more than to be included in everything that goes on around them. They are naturally suspicious of people they have never met before which is why they have always been highly prized as watchdogs in the Canary Islands.
With this said, because the Presa Canario is a large and imposing dog, they need to be trained correctly from a young age so they understand their place in the pack and who is the alpha dog in a household or they might take on this role. They are not the best choice for first time owners because they need to be handled and trained by people who are familiar with the needs of this type of large and dominant dog.
A puppy's training must start as soon as they arrive in their new home by teaching them the "basics" and the boundaries although a Presa may well test these throughout their lives which is why their training and handling must be consistent so that dogs understand what is expected of them. Once they have settled in to their new environment, they form strong bonds with their owners and will naturally protect them should ever they feel their families are being threatened.
It cannot be stressed strongly enough the importance of socialising a Presa from a young age which must include introducing them to lots of new situations, noises, people, other animals and dogs once they have been fully vaccinated so they grow up to be more relaxed, outgoing mature characters. However, because the Presa is naturally protective, it's important to bear in mind that no matter how much socialisation they are given, these dogs will want to guard and protect their owners and their property because it is deeply embedded into their psyche to do so.
Because they are so intelligent, they need to be given lots of things to occupy their minds and they need enough daily exercise for them to be truly happy, well-rounded dogs. If they are not given enough of either, a Presa would quickly start to show signs of boredom which could result in their developing some unwanted and destructive behaviours around the home which is their way of relieving any stress they may be feeling, and not necessarily because they are being naughty.
Are they a good choice for first time owners?
Presas are not the best choice for first time dog owners because, as previously mentioned they are better suited to people who are familiar with their specific needs and who know how to train and handle such a powerful and intelligent dog.
What about prey drive?
The Presa Canario has a high prey drive and they are naturally protective and territorial too. As such, care should always when they are around other animals and pets they don't already know. Care should also be taken as to where and when a Presa can run off the lead more especially if there are other dogs and animals around.
What about playfulness?
Presas may look intimidating, but they have a very playful side to their natures and love to entertain and be entertained by the people they love. With this said, puppies and young dogs need to be taught how to "play nicely" so that they don't end up knocking anyone over or pulling them down to the ground. It's best to teach a Presa puppy that playtime takes place outdoors and in the house which could end up with quite a few breakages.
What about adaptability?
The Presa Canario is better suited to people who live in houses with secure back gardens and are not really suited to apartment living. They need enough space to express themselves and safe areas they can run free whenever possible so they get to really let off steam.
What about separation anxiety?
The Presa Canario forms a strong tie with an owner and dogs are never very happy when they find themselves left on their own for longer periods of time. They are better suited to people who either work from home or in households where one person stays at home when everyone else is out so they are never alone for any length of time which could see a dog suffering from separation anxiety. This can lead to them being destructive around the home which is a dog's way of relieving any stress they are feeling and a way to keep themselves entertained.
What about excessive barking?
The Presa is not known to be a "barker", but they are protective of their owners and property which means they are always quick to let them know when something they don't like is going on or when there are strangers about. With this said, any dog that's left on their own for too long, might start barking incessantly to get attention and to alert their owners how unhappy they are at the situation. It is also worth noting that a Presa will not back down when threatened.
Do Presa Canarios like water?
Most Presas like swimming and will take to the water whenever they can more especially when the weather is hot. However, if anyone who owns a dog that does not like water should never force them to go in because it would just end up scaring them. With this said, care should always be taken when walking a Presa Canario off the lead anywhere near more dangerous watercourses just in case a dog decides to leap in and then needs rescuing because they can't get out of the water on their own.
Are Presa Canarios good watchdogs?
The Presa Canario is a natural watchdog and they do not need to be taught to guard and protect because these are traits that are deeply embedded in a dog's psyche. It would be a mistake to teach these dogs to protect which could end up making them more dominant and aggressive which in turn makes them harder to handle and live with.
Intelligence / Trainability
A Presa Canario's training must begin early and it must be consistent throughout a dog's life so they understand what is expected of them. They are not the best choice for first time owners because it's essential for these powerful dogs to be handled and trained by people who are familiar with their needs. Puppies must be taught the "basics" from the word go and once they've been fully vaccinated, to enrol them into puppy classes which is the best way of socialising them in a safe and controlled environment surrounded by other dogs and people. It's also a very good way of beginning their training in earnest.
The Presa is a very smart dog and a quick learner. The downside to this is they are just as quick to pick up bad habits as they are the good. They are never happier than when they are given something to do, but they need to be handled with a firm, yet gentle and always fair hand. They do not respond well to heavy handed training methods which would more than likely bring the worst out of these dogs. They do respond well to positive reinforcement especially when a dog is given a high value reward for getting it right.
The key to successfully training a Presa is to make their training as interesting as possible and to avoid too much repetition. It's also a good idea to keep training sessions that much shorter which helps keep a dog more focused on what they are being asked to do bearing in mind that the more intelligent a dog is, the faster they get bored.
Like all puppies, the Presa is adorable when young, but they quickly grow into impressive and powerful mature dogs. As such, owners need to start out as they mean to go on which means setting out rules and boundaries so that a Presa puppy understands not only what an owner expects of them, but it also helps establish their place in the pack. The first commands a puppy should be taught are as follows:
Come
Sit
Stay
Quiet
Leave it
Down
Bed
Children and Other Pets
The Presa Canario is a docile dog by nature even though they look imposing. They are a good choice for families with older children who know how to behave around dogs and when to leave them alone. They are not best suited to households with toddlers because a Presa could easily knock a small child over, albeit by accident but never intentionally.
Pets4homes advises that the Presa Canario is not the best choice for families with babies or very young children. Anyone who already shares a home with a Presa Canario and who have younger children should always make sure they are never left together unattended. It is also crucial for parents to teach young children how to behave around dogs and when to stay away from them, particularly when there is food around or during playtime.
Even when well socialised from a young enough age, a Presa may show aggression towards other dogs they meet which is why care must be taken as to where and when they can run off their leads in any public places. Males are known to be quite intolerant of other male dogs which is another thing to bear in mind when sharing a home with a Presa Canario. Care must be taken when they are anywhere near any smaller animals and pets which includes cats because these dogs boast having a high prey drive. As such any contacted is best avoided.
For further advice please read our article on Keeping Children Safe around Dogs.
Presa Canario Health
The average life expectancy of a Presa Canario is between 9 and 11 years when properly cared for and fed an appropriate good quality diet to suit their ages.
The Presa is known to suffer from a few hereditary health issues which are worth knowing about if you are planning share your home with one of these active and good-looking dogs. The conditions that seem to affect the breed the most include the following:
Hip dysplasia - Breeders should have stud dogs hip scored through the Animal Health Trust (AHT)
Elbow dysplasia - Breeders should have stud dogs tested
Osteochondritis dissecans panosteitis
Arthritis - mainly seen in older Presas
Entropion (Eyelids Folding Inwards)
Hypothyroidism
Demodectic mange
Epilepsy
Cryptorchidism
Obesity
Bloat - gastric torsion
What about vaccinations?
Presa puppies would have been given their initial vaccinations before being sold, but it is up to their new owners to make sure they have their follow-up shots in a timely manner with the vaccination schedule for puppies being as follows:
10 -12 weeks old, bearing in mind that a puppy would not have full protection straight away, but would be fully protected 2 weeks after they have had their second vaccination
There has been a lot of discussion about the need for dogs to have boosters. As such, it's best to talk to a vet before making a final decision on whether a dog should continue to have annual vaccinations which are known as boosters.
What about spaying and neutering?
A lot of vets these days recommend waiting until dogs are slightly older before spaying and neutering them which means they are more mature before undergoing the procedures. As such they advise neutering males and spaying females when they are between the ages of 6 to 9 months old and sometimes even when a dog is 12 months old.
Other vets recommend spaying and neutering dogs when they are 6 months old, but never any earlier unless for medical reasons. With this said, many breeds are different and it is always advisable to discuss things with a vet and then follow their advice on when a dog should be spayed or neutered.
What about obesity problems?
Some Presas gain weight after they have been spayed or neutered and it's important to keep an eye on a dog's waistline just in case they do. If a dog starts to put on weight it's important to adjust their daily calorie intake and to up the amount of exercise they are given. Older dogs too are more prone to gaining weight and again it's essential they be fed and exercised accordingly because obesity can shorten a dog's life by several years. The reason being that it puts a lot of extra strain on a dog's internal organs including the heart which could prove fatal.
What about allergies?
Some Presa Canarios are prone to suffering from allergies and it's important for a dog to see a vet sooner rather than later if one flares up, more especially as some Presas can develop demodectic mange. Allergies can be notoriously hard to clear up and finding the triggers can be challenging. With this said, a vet would be able to make a dog with an allergy more comfortable while they try to find out the triggers which could include the following:
Certain foods that contain high volumes of wheat or other cereal fillers
Airborne pollens
Dust mites
Environment
Flea and tick bites
Chemicals found in everyday household cleaning products
Participating in health schemes
All responsible Presa Canario breeders would ensure that their stud dogs are tested for known hereditary and congenital health issues known to affect the breed by using the following schemes:
Hip scoring - test available through the Animal Health Trust (AHT)
Elbow testing - test available through the Animal Health Trust (AHT)
What about breed specific breeding restrictions?
There are no breed specific breeding restrictions in place for the Presa Canario, but all breeders should follow the Kennel Club breeding recommendations even though Presas are not KC recognised to ensure puppies are responsibly bred and healthy.
What about Assured Breeder Requirements?
There are no Assured Breeder requirements in place for Presa Canarios because they are not a Kennel Club registered breed. However, all prospective owners should contact reputable breeders who routinely have their stud dogs tested for known hereditary and congenital health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia.
Caring for a Presa Canario
As with any other breed, Presas need to be groomed on a regular basis to make sure their coats and skin are kept in top condition more especially as some dogs are prone to suffering from demotic mange. They also need to be given regular daily exercise to ensure they remain fit and healthy. On top of this, dogs need to be fed good quality food that meets all their nutritional needs throughout their lives.
Caring for a Presa Canario puppy
Presa puppies are boisterous and full of life which means it's essential for homes and gardens to be puppy-proofed well in advance of their arrival. A responsible breeder would have well socialised their puppies which always leads to more outgoing, confident and friendly dogs right from the word go. With this said, any puppy is going to feel vulnerable when they leave their mother and littermates which must be taken into account. The longer a puppy can remain with their mother, the better although it should never be for too long either.
It's best to pick a puppy up when people are going to be around for the first week or so which is the time needed for a puppy to settle in. Puppy-proofing the home and garden means putting away any tools and other implements that a boisterous puppy might injure themselves on. Electric wires and cables must be put out of their reach because puppies love chewing on things. Toxic plants should be removed from flowerbeds and the home too.
Puppies need to sleep a lot to grow and develop as they should which means setting up a quiet area that's not too out of the way means they can retreat to it when they want to nap and it's important not to disturb them when they are sleeping. It's also a good idea to keep "playtime" nice and calm inside the house and to have a more active "playtime" outside in the garden which means puppies quickly learn to be less boisterous when they are inside.
The documentation a breeder provides for a puppy must have all the details of their worming date and the product used as well as the information relating to their microchip. It is essential for puppies to be wormed again keeping to a schedule which is as follows:
Puppies should be wormed at 6 months old
They need to be wormed again when they are 8 months old
Puppies should be wormed when they are 10 months old
They need to be wormed when they are 12 months old
Things you'll need for your puppy
There are certain items that new owners need to already have in the home prior to bringing a new puppy home. It's often a good idea to restrict how much space a puppy plays in more especially when you can't keep an eye on what they get up to bearing in mind that puppies are often quite boisterous which means investing in puppy gates or a large enough playpen that allows a Presa puppy the room to express themselves while keeping them safe too. The items needed are therefore, as follows:
Good quality puppy or baby gates to fit on doors
A good well-made playpen that's large enough for a puppy to play in so they can really express themselves as puppies like to do
Lots of well-made toys which must include good quality chews suitable for puppies to gnaw on, bearing in mind that a puppy will start teething anything from when they are 3 to 8 months old
Good quality feed and water bowls which ideally should be ceramic rather than plastic or metal
A grooming glove
A slicker brush or soft bristle brush
Dog specific toothpaste and a toothbrush
Scissors with rounded ends
Nail clippers
Puppy shampoo and conditioner which must be specifically formulated for use on dogs
A well-made dog collar or harness
A couple of strong dog leads
A well-made dog bed that's not too small or too big
A well-made dog crate for use in the car and in the home, that's large enough for a puppy to move around in
Baby blankets to put in your puppy's crate and in their beds for when they want to nap or go to sleep at night
Keeping the noise down
All puppies are sensitive to noise including Presa Canario puppies. It's important to keep the noise levels down when a new puppy arrives in the home. TVs and music should not be played too loud which could end up stressing a small puppy out.
Keeping vet appointments
As previously mentioned, Presa puppies would have been given their first vaccinations by the breeders, but they must have their follow up shots which is up to their new owners to organise. The vaccination schedule for puppies is as follows:
10 -12 weeks old, bearing in mind that a puppy would not have full protection straight away, but would only be fully protected 2 weeks after they have had their second vaccination
When it comes to boosters, it's best to discuss these with a vet because there is a lot of debate about whether a dog really needs them after a certain time. However, if a dog ever needed to go into kennels, their vaccinations would need to be
What about older Presa Canarios when they reach their senior years?
Older Presas need lots of special care because as they reach their golden years, they are more at risk of developing certain health concerns. Physically, a dog's muzzle may start to go grey, but there will be other noticeable changes too which includes the following:
Coats become coarser
A loss of muscle tone
Presas can either become overweight or underweight
They have reduced strength and stamina
Older dogs have difficulty regulating their body temperature
They often develop arthritis
Immune systems do not work as efficiently as they once did which means dogs are more susceptible to infections
Older dogs change mentally too which means their response time tends to be slower as such they develop the following:
They respond less to external stimuli due to impaired vision or hearing
They tend to be a little pickier about their food
They have a lower pain threshold
Become intolerant of any change
Often an older dog can feel disorientated
Living with a Presa in their golden years means taking on a few more responsibilities, but these are easily managed and should include looking at their diet, the amount of exercise they are given, how often their dog beds need changing and keeping an eye on the condition of their teeth.
Older Presas need to be fed a good quality diet that meets their needs at this stage of their lives all the while keeping a close eye on a dog's weight. A rough feeding guide for older dogs is as follows bearing in mind they should be fed highly digestible food that does not contain any additives:
Protein content should be anything from 14 – 21%
Fat content should be less than 10%
Fibre content should be less than 4%
Calcium content should be 0.5 – 0.8%
Phosphorous content should be 0.4 – 0.7%
Sodium content should be 0.2 – 0.4%
Older Presas don't need to be given the same amount of daily exercise as a younger dog, but they still need the right amount of physical activity to maintain muscle tone and to prevent a dog from putting on too much weight. All dogs need access to fresh clean water and this is especially true of older dogs when they reach their golden years because they are more at risk of developing kidney disorders.
Grooming
The Presa Canario boasts having a smooth, flat coat that lies close to the body. As such they are low maintenance on the grooming front. All it takes is a weekly brush and wipe over with a chamois leather to keep their coats looking shiny and to remove any loose and dead hair. They shed steadily throughout the year only more so during the Spring and then again in the Autumn when more frequent grooming is usually necessary to keep on top of things.
It's also important to check a dog's ears on a regular basis and to clean them when necessary. If too much wax builds up in a dog's ears, it can lead to a painful infection which can be hard to clear up. In short, prevention is often easier than cure when it comes to ear infections.
Exercise
The Presa is not a high energy dog, but they still need the right amount of exercise every day combined with as much mental stimulation as possible to prevent them from getting bored. They need from 40 to 60 minute’s exercise a day with as much off the lead time as possible, but only in a safe and secure environment and not around other dogs. If they are not given the right amount of mental stimulation and exercise every day, a Presa would quickly get bored and could even begin to show some destructive behaviours around the home which is their way of relieving any stress they are feeling and not necessarily because they are being naughty.
A shorter walk in the morning would be fine, but a longer more interesting one in the afternoon is a must with as much off the lead time as possible. These dogs also like to be able to roam around a back garden as often as possible so they can really let off steam. However, the fencing must be extremely secure to keep these smart dogs in because if they find a weakness in the fence, they will soon escape and could get into all sorts of trouble, bearing in mind that Presas are very capable of jumping a six-foot high fence with the greatest of ease.
With this said, Presa puppies should not be over exercised because their joints and bones are still growing. This includes not letting a dog jump up and down from furniture or going up or down the stairs. Too much pressure placed on their joints and spines at an early age could result in a dog developing serious problems later in their lives.
Feeding
If you get a Presa puppy from a breeder, they would give you a feeding schedule and it's important to stick to the same routine, feeding the same puppy food to avoid any tummy upsets. You can change a puppy's diet, but this needs to be done very gradually always making sure they don't develop any digestive upsets and if they do, it's best to put them back on their original diet and to discuss things with the vet before attempting to change it again.
Older dogs are not known to be fussy eaters, but this does not mean they can be given a lower quality diet. It's best to feed a mature dog twice a day, once in the morning and then again in the evening, making sure it's good quality food that meets all their nutritional requirements. It's also important that dogs be given the right amount of exercise so they burn off any excess calories or they might gain too much weight which can lead to all sorts of health issues. Obesity can shorten a dog's life by several years so it's important to keep an eye on their waistline from the word go.
Because Presas are known to suffer from bloat, it is important for them to be fed twice a day instead of giving a dog one larger meal a day. It's also a good idea to invest in a stand for their feed bowls which makes it easier for dogs to eat comfortably without having to stretch their necks down to reach their food. Dogs should never be exercised just before or just after they have eaten either because this puts them more at risk of suffering from gastric torsion.
Feeding guide for a Presa Canario puppy
Puppies need to be fed a highly nutritious, good quality diet for them to develop and grow as they should. As a rough guide, a Presa puppy can be fed the following amounts every day making sure their meals are evenly spread out throughout the day and it's best to feed them 3 or 4 times a day:
2 months old - 309g to 354g depending on puppy's build
3 months old - 406g to 464g depending on puppy's build
4 months old - 449g to 516g depending on puppy's build
5 months old - 534g to 618g depending on puppy's build
6 months old - 607g to 709g depending on puppy's build
7 months old - 609g to 716g depending on puppy's build
8 months old - 597g to 715g depending on puppy's build
9 months old - 557g to 661g depending on puppy's build
10 months old - 521g to 618g depending on puppy's build
11 months old - 476g to 573g depending on puppy's build
12 months old - 434g to 534g depending on puppy's build
13 months old - 431g to 498g depending on puppy's build
14 months old - 426g to 485g depending on puppy's build
Once a puppy is 18 months old they can be fed adult dog food.
Feeding guide for an adult Presa Canario
Once fully mature, an adult Presa Canario must be fed a good quality diet to ensure their continued good health. As a rough guide, an adult Presa can be fed the following amounts every day:
Dogs weighing 38 kg can be fed 354g to 479g depending on activity
Dogs weighing 40 kg can be fed 394g to 519g depending on activity
Dogs weighing 50 kg can be fed 458g to 603g depending on activity
Dogs weighing 59 kg can be fed 512g to 682g depending on activity
Average Cost to keep/care for a Presa Canario
If you are looking to buy a Presa Canario, you would need to register your interest with breeders and agree to being put on a waiting list because very few puppies are bred and registered with The Kennel Club every year. You would need to pay anything upwards of £500 for a well-bred puppy.
It can prove hard to get pet insurance cover for a Presa Canario and premiums may be higher than for most breeds because there’s a higher risk of owners having to make a claim. The cost of insuring a male 3-year-old Presa Canario in northern England would be £51.22 a month for basic cover but for a lifetime policy, this would set you back £94.03 a month (quote as of November 2017). When insurance companies calculate a pet's premium, they factor in several things which includes where you live in the UK, a dog's age and whether they have been neutered or spayed among other things.
When it comes to food costs, you need to buy the best quality food whether wet or dry making sure it suits the different stages of a dog’s life. This would set you back between £40 - £50 a month. On top of this, you need to factor in veterinary costs if you want to share your home with a Presa and this includes their initial vaccinations, their annual boosters, the cost of neutering or spaying a dog when the time is right and their yearly health checks, all of which quickly adds up to over £1200 a year.
As a rough guide, the average cost to keep and care for a Presa Canario would be between £100 to £150 a month depending on the level of insurance cover you opt to buy for your dog, but this does not include the initial cost of buying a responsibly bred, healthy Presa Canario puppy.
Presa Canario Buying Advice
Presas have fast become one of the more popular dogs both in the UK and elsewhere in the world which means that well-bred puppies command a lot of money. As such, with Presa Canarios there is specific advice, questions and protocols to follow when buying a puppy which are as follows:
Beware of online scams and how to avoid them. You may see online and other adverts by scammers showing images of beautiful Presa Canario puppies for sale at very low prices. However, the sellers ask buyers for money up front before agreeing to deliver a puppy to a new home. Potential buyers should never buy a puppy unseen and should never pay a deposit or any other money online to a seller. You should always visit the pet at the sellers home to confirm they are genuine and make a note of their address.
As previously touched upon, Presas are among some of the more popular breeds in the UK. As such, there are many amateur breeders/people who breed from dam far too often so they can make a quick profit without caring for the welfare of the puppies, their dam or the breed in general. Under Kennel Club rules, a dam can only produce 4 litters and she must be between a certain age to do so. Anyone wishing to buy a Presa Canario puppy should think very carefully about who they purchase their puppy from and should always ask to see the relevant paperwork pertaining to a puppy's lineage, their vaccinations and their microchipping.
Prospective Presa Canario owners should be very careful when considering buying a puppy with a docked tai. Tail docking is now illegal in the UK with some exceptions for working breeds, but the correct application forms must be submitted to the correct authorities by a qualified vet before the procedure can be carried out on a dog. There is a heavy fine for anyone who docks a dog's tail or who owns a dog with a docked tail where the correct permission has not been sought.
Prospective owners should also make sure that a puppy’s parents are good-natured dogs before committing to buying a Presa puppy.
04. Wolf Dog
These breed is a mixture of domesticated dogs and wild wolves. These beasts have protective instincts and can be very wild due to their unpredictable behavior that probably resulted from breeding wild animals with common dogs. In some countries, owning and breeding this dog is prohibited
Wolfdogs can better be described as companions than pets. They are smarter than most "domestic" breeds of dogs, are self aware, aware of their surroundings, will challenge even the most experienced caretakers with their stubbornness and "what's in it for me" attitude, and in general are the most predictable canine as wolves are the model for canine behavior and wolfdogs tend to display emotions very well.
The general layout for wolf content is 1-49% is considered a Low Content (LC), 50-74 % is considered a Mid Content (MC), and 75% + is considered a High Content (HC) a High Content may have 1-3 dog traits but otherwise should be virtually indistinguishable from a pure wolf.
Of course there are subdivisions of the normal classifications which overlap such as Low Content, Upper Low, Low Mid, Mid Content, Upper Mid, Low High, High Content, and Wolf Content are used to describe the animal. These terms are generally used in rescue when an exact genotype is unknown. A genotype is an animal’s % based on VERIFIABLE lineage. Verifiable lineage is NOT CKC papers as any animal can easily be registered with the CKC and the CKC does not check percentage. Many unscrupulous breeders will use CKC papers in an attempt to verify their animal’s lines.
Phenotyping:
Phenotyping is a way to help determine wolf content for either animals with unverifiable lineage or to help determine if a breeder is misrepresenting their animals (such as calling no/low contents high contents). A high content will never look and act like a dog, it’s impossible. A mid content will have an even number to slightly more wolf traits than dog traits. A low content will have less wolf traits than dog traits.
Checklist, the more wolf traits an animal has the higher the content. However remember that a few traits does not necessarily mean wolf content as dogs and wolves share a number of similar features and it is only a cumulative amount of traits that is able to determine wolf content through phenotyping.
Wolf Traits:
Adults: Narrow Chest (front legs should be almost touching or even touching when standing still) , Large Feet, Webbed Toes, Long Muzzle, No stop (point between forehead and muzzle, should be gradual slope), Black or Taupe toenails (never clear), V-Cape, Banded fur (single strand of fur should be multiple colors), Straight Tail, Bristled Tail, Black Tipped Tail (except for arctics), Front feet turn outward slightly, Cow Hocked, Lanky (long legs), Slanted Eyes, Black Rimmed Eyes, Black Nose, Black Lips, Eye Color (Yellow, Grey, Brown, Green, Amber) blue is extremely rare in high contents, Blended Coat, Blended mask, Small Ears, Rounded Ears, Well Furred Ears (no pink showing through), Single Track
At Birth/Babies:
Born dark brown/black and phase into their colors over time (some high contents may have one or two in a litter born white with line breeding, in breeding, genetic defect, etc…), No Prominent Markings at birth (should be a solid color with little deviation), Ears should be up and stay up at 3 weeks.
Temperament
Depending on wolf content temperament can vary greatly. Both the wolf personality and the domestic dog personality should be taken into account if you are interested in a wolfdog.
High Content Temperament: High content wolfdogs tend to share most of the same personality and physical features as wolves. As such high content wolfdogs are often very fearful, preferring to hide from any stranger, they are NOT protective, you may get one or two warning barks/chuffs/howls to let you know there is a stranger present before the animal retreats.
Daily handling starting as early as 10 days old by direct family is vital; remember pups (both wolf, wolfdog, and dog) are very susceptible to disease at this point and interaction with people outside of the family can pose a health hazard. “Human handlers must begin contact early, preferably between 10-14 days of the pup's birth. Research has demonstrated that if a pup is not handled during the critical bonding period of its first 21 days, it may respond with very fearful behavior towards people and in captivity.” Handling must continue to prevent a lapse in socialization.
A second period of critical bonding occurs at 6-8 weeks.
Between six and eight weeks of age, a pup’s willingness to approach and make contact with strangers outweighs his natural wariness. This time frame is considered the optimum period to introduce a pup into its new home and surroundings. New studies, however, suggest a shorter time frame—7 ½ to 8 weeks (Serpell & Jagoe, 1999; Slabbert & Rassa, 1993; and Fox and Stelzner, 1966).
During this phase, a pup should be gradually exposed to potentially frightening stimuli such as kids, the postman, vacuum cleaners, spray cans, street noises, loud noises, etc. Between eight and twelve weeks of age, the pup should also be introduced to the places, circumstances, and conditions that he is likely to have to face as an adult. Not only do pups form attachments to people during this sensitive stage, but also to places.”
High contents are extremely intelligent and will test your containment. Unless you have a six sided kennel which is all 4 normal sides of a fence plus a top and bottom made of heavy duty chain link or cattle panels there is no such thing as bomb proof (and even then a wolfdog may find a weak point such as a rusted or damaged area).
For the most part with high contents, there is no such thing as a “house dog”. While there are people that have had success with bringing high contents into the home it is not the norm and they often can’t leave the animal unattended. This is because the term of an animal “eating you out of house and home” comes into play. In this case we are NOT talking about food. It is not unusual for a high content to chew apart your furniture, chew the drywall in your house, chew wires, chew doors, chew the outside siding of the house, whatever they can get their mouth on. Other unacceptable behavior often seen in high contents is jumping on tables, furniture, and sometimes even the top of fridges.
High content wolfdogs are the least likely to want to please you. Although very loving they are not likely to perform tricks, sit when asked, stay, rollover, etc... unless there is a trade worthy of their time (ie food/treats) and even then that may not work.
Because of a high prey drive young children, cats, or small dogs should NEVER be left alone with a high content wolfdog. A child running around screaming is likely to invoke a high prey drive response and can lead to injury or even death. Please note that this is not solely a wolf trait, other breeds of dogs (especially northern breeds) tend to have a high prey drive as well. Even with early socialization to cats or small dogs a high content should really never be left alone with either.
Mid Contents Temperament: Mid Contents tend to be more social than High Contents. They can take time to warm up to strangers and be very fearful at first but with patience they tend to trust much more quickly. A poorly socialized mid content is less likely to become “feral” than a high content with the same lack of socialization. With good breeding mid contents can be outgoing but many will retain some kind of shyness around strangers. Mid contents can often be brought into the house although chewing may be a problem, they do tend to be more willing to please than high contents.
Mids are in general better with small animals than high contents but since often times wolfdogs are mixed with Northern breeds, GSDs, Border Collies, or other breeds with high prey drive any owner should be cautious when they are around young children, cats, or small dogs. Mid contents also can be destructive.
Low Contents Temperament: Low contents are the best choice for someone new to wolfdogs. They are often the most outgoing, willing to please and best in the house while often retaining the intelligence and self awareness of a high content. Low contents are easy to train albeit they can be stubborn at times. Low contents are also the most likely to do well with children, cats, and small dogs. However cats tend to still be viewed as prey. Early socialization can help to eliminate most risks.
Also remember that breeding that does not take temperament into account can result in an animal that is unstable (certain breeders are known to have aggressive wolfdogs or wolfdogs with behavioral issues). This isn’t necessarily due to the “wolf” in the animal but because aggressive animals have been bred further promoting poor behavior in offspring.
Instability is not necessarily due to breeding 'aggressive' wolfdogs per say. What often times happens is a mis-match of temperament in the dog breeds chosen to cross with a wolf. For example some German Shepherd working lines have an inherent genetic make-up toward aggression, protection and/or assertion. That is why, with proper training, they make excellent police or protection dogs. If you mix this temperament with a wolf's shy, witholding temperament, the wolfdog will be more unstable because of the internal conflict created by these two opposing genetics. Some times the wolfdog will withdraw and sometimes it will aggress, always with unpredictability. In one situation the wolfdog may not react. Then in a later very similar situation, the wolfdog may try to aggress. You won't be able to predict future behavior by past behavior. This propensity cannot be 'trained out of them'. The unprovoked 'snapping' between shyness and aggression will be possible and more unpredictable regardless of the 'content' of the wolfdog, because of the breed it was mixed with. This is an unfortunate consequence of uninformed, careless breeding. The wolfdog pays the price with it's life when it is then labeled 'vicious'.
Height, Weight
Average: 26-34 inches males & females equally. The lower content wolfdogs tend to be on the shorter side, while the higher contents tend towards the taller side.
Wolfdogs' average adult weight goes from 60 to 120 pounds, but getting that high is fairly unusual and tends to be males in winter coats. Claims of anything much more than that are no doubt false information or exaggeration
Health Problems
In general wolfdogs are exceptionally healthy animals. They do not have any common genetic health problems such as hip dysplasia, etc, but can of course be bothered by common canine ailments such as fleas, ticks, heartworms (if not treated with preventative); canine diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, rabies, etc which should be vaccinated against like any other dog; and other illnesses such as kennel cough, coccidia, giardia, etc. Note that some veterinarians will not treat wolfdogs of mid and/or high content, so be sure to call your local clinics to check before adopting.
Living Conditions
This is where things can get very expensive. Low’s and many mids can live in a normal fence. However, high contents often require 6-8 ft fencing, lean-ins, diguard, and hotwire to prevent escaping. A bored animal is an unhappy animal and more likely to attempt to roam. There should be no beams on the inside of the fence that would provide a foot hold, the fencing should be cattle panels or heavy duty chain link (wolfdogs have been known to bite through weaker chainlink), or even vinyl fencing. Wood is not recommended because it eventually degrades and poses an escape risk once its begun to rot/weaken. Mids and High Contents are the most likely to attempt to escape; sheer height is not always enough as a wolfdog can literally climb out of a chain link/cattle panel fence. Until your animal is older you won’t really know if they will be an escape risk.
There are some high contents that can be easily contained and low contents that are escape artists. It just depends on how bad your animal wants out, if they are bored, if there is something on the other side of the fence that is really exciting them, etc…
Note: Wood and vinyl fencing can be at risk of being chewed apart.
A large fenced in (NO wireless/inground electric fencing) enclosure is ideal where he/she has enough room to run and play. Wolfdogs are also very social animals and should always have at least one other canine companion.
Exercise
Wolfdogs of all content levels require a lot of mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. Much of this can be done in their enclosure by playing games with them. Most are able to be walked on a leash like any other dog, and should be walked every day, ideally. High contents can sometimes be fearful in some walk situations and may do better in rural walking areas vs suburban. It is not recommended to have a wolfdog in a city-type environment. A wolfdog's enclosure must be very big (minimum 20x20' for 1-2 animals) and should have places to hide and take shelter, objects to climb on (not close to the fencing!), toys, etc. Frequently bringing in new forms of enrichment is key to keeping a wolfdog happy and healthy.
Note: A wolfdog should be walked with two leashes. One attached to a collar or harness and the other a slip leash. The leash attached to the collar/harness should be the main leash, the slip lead is to act as a backup if something spooks the animal, because if they slip out of their harness/collar while panicking they are likely to bolt off which puts them at risk for getting lost, getting impounded by animal control, being hit by a car, etc...
Life Expectancy
About 13-16 years
Grooming
Wolfdogs have a double coat which becomes very very thick during winter months. This allows them to be comfortable outside just as their wild relatives are. They "blow" their winter coat (lose all the under coat) in spring and at this time a lot of grooming is needed. "Rake" style brushes are very useful for this. Otherwise general brushing every couple of weeks is usually sufficient. Keep a closer eye on tail fur and fur behind the ears as these areas are the most likely to become tangled.
Origin
Wolfdogs came about via crossing pure wolves bred by fur farms with similar looking dogs (ie: Malamute, GSD, Husky-types). They are never created by leaving a female dog tied up outside in wolf territory, nor by using wolves that were "den robbed" as pups. Most wolfdogs are bred "wolfdog x wolfdog", but some are still bred "wolfdog x wolf" or for the low - mid contents "wolfdog/wolf x dog". As a rule of thumb, the higher the filial number (or F#), the easier to handle the animal will be. For example, a pup from a pure wolf and wolfdog (or dog) mating would be called an F1. If that animal was later bred to another F1 animal, the resulting pups would be F2, and so on. The number indicates how many generations away from a pure wolf an animal is.
Group
Wolfdogs are mixed breed dogs and as such cannot be registered with ANY reputable kennel club, such as the American Kennel Club. There are some online registries that will provide papers for them for a fee, but these are online scams - buyer beware. There are a few wolfdog fanciers groups/clubs, the most common being the Florida Lupine Association.
05. Fila Brasileiro
The Fila is well boned with a rectangular structure. Its Bloodhound ancestry is apparent in its long muzzle, pendulous skin, and superb tracking ability. Its muzzle is heavy with pendulous upper lips giving it a Mastiff appearance. Its neck is very thick, with dewlap. The skin is of the most important breed characteristics. It is thick and loose all over the body, chiefly at the neck, forming pronounced dewlaps, and in many individuals the folds proceed to the chest and abdomen. Some dogs show a fold at the side of the head and also at the withers descending to the shoulders. The coat is short, smooth, dense and soft. This breed may be any color, solid or brindle, except white, mouse gray, patched, dappled, or black and tan. The typical colors are fawn, black and brindle. Brindles of a basic color may have the stripes of either less or with very strong intensity. A black mask may or may not be present. In all permitted colors white markings should be limited to the feet, chest and tip of tail. The white markings are not desirable on any other part of the body. The back is strong and straight rising gently toward the hindquarters. Its gait is measured and elastic, like that of a cat. His main characteristic is the pace (camel’s gait), moving two legs of one side first, followed by the two legs of the other side, which causes a rolling lateral movement on the thorax and hindquarters accentuated by the tail when it’s raised. During the walk he maintains the head lower than the back line. This fascinating carriage has earned it great success in dog shows. General Appearance: A typical molossoid breed with powerful bone structure, rectangular and compact figure, but harmonious and proportional. Added to his massiveness, a great agility can be easily seen. Females must show a well-defined femininity, which differentiates them immediately from males.
Temperament
The Fila Brasileiro is a courageous, powerful mastiff. It is amenable with its human family, making a very loyal loving companion. Extremely dedicated to his owner. A Fila will protect you without a moment’s hesitation. He feels that is why he is there. Once you bond with your Fila, you and your family will become his whole world. You do not teach your Fila to protect you, as he does this on his own. It is the breed’s nature to be loyal and protective of his family. They love kids in their own family and take a lot of abuse from them. Ask anyone who has kids and Filas and they will tell you how unbelievably gentle they are with the children in the family. Filas make great family pets and are gentle, loving, loyal and very protective. They will also bond with other pets in your home. Outstanding courage, determination and bravery are part of his characteristics. He is docile and obedient to his owners and family and extremely tolerant with children in his own family. His faithfulness became a Brazilian proverb. He is always looking for the company of his master. He shows a calm disposition, self-assurance and self-confidence, not being disturbed by strange noises nor when facing a new environment. An unsurpassed guardian of property, he is also inclined, by instinct, to hunt big game and to herd cattle. Some Filas may drool, especially after getting a drink. Bold and wary with strangers, this breed makes a wonderful guard dog. It needs a dominant owner who understands the alpha pack instinct. Proper socialization and understanding of the breeds instincts are the keys to successful ownership of a Fila. Do not allow this breed to take over. He needs a handler who displays natural authority. Be firm, confident and consistent. Passive owners will encounter dominance issues. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. You as the human MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. A dog with the massive size and strength of the Fila that believes he is alpha to humans is downright dangerous.
A lot of Fila fanciers recommend stopping all socialization at age 4 months. When a canine puppy’s socialization stops at such a young age it molds its temperament into an anti-social dog. This is the end goal for many Fila owners as it is the breed’s trademark, so to speak. It is what is called ""Ojeriza" to strangers," which means the distrust of strangers. A lot of owners, however, have been choosing to socialize the Fila throughout its life. Socializing a Fila Brasileiro as a puppy will not always make your Fila like people. What it will do is show your Fila that not everything is a threat. It will make him more confident and more stable in the world around him. Robin Barrett, owner of Harley Acre Filas states, "When I first got into Filas, most owners chose to have their Fila Brasileiro unsocialized and basically lunging maniacs at the end of the leash. Some people seem to need an intimidating dog at the end of a leash or behind a fence to make them feel superior. A Fila does not have to be like that to be protective of you. With good common sense and obedience training you can have a Fila by your side that will behave himself while in public and not want to kill everything that moves. By socializing your Fila and introducing him to the world around him you are doing the same thing that is needed to take a Fila into the show ring."
The Fila is NOT a breed for the average pet owner. You need to know what the Fila Brasileiro is about and what it takes to own one. If you choose to raise your Fila using the methods that produce a dog who is "Ojeriza" to strangers (distrustful of), you must decide if your lifestyle will allow a protective breed that is anti-social with strangers and decide if you have the ability to control the dog. If you have a lot of friends and relatives coming in and out of your home you may want to consider another breed. You also need a good solid fence of correct height with secure locks to keep strangers out and the Fila in.
Height, Weight
Height: 25.5 - 29.5 inches (65 - 75 cm)
Weight: 90 - 110 pounds (41 - 50 kg)
Health Problems
Prone to most large-breed ailments. Beware of hip dysplasia. As these dogs are prone to bloat, feed two or three small meals a day, instead of one large one. Also prone to CHD, gastric torsion, elbow dysplasia and PRA.
Living Conditions
This breed is not suited to city life, as its vigorous body must work off energy in the freedom of the country. It needs a fenced-in yard with room to run. The Fila can sleep outdoors with proper shelter.
Exercise
The Fila needs plenty of chance to exercise. While some can appear to be very lazy, big couch potatoes, like all dogs, they should be taken on daily walks.
Life Expectancy
About 9-11 years
Litter Size
About 4 to 10 puppies
Grooming
The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and wipe over with a piece of toweling or chamois for a gleaming finish. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
The Fila Brasileiro is a descendant of the 15th-century English Mastiff, Bloodhound, Bulldog and Rafeiros. From the Bloodhound, he inherited loose skin and his keen sense of smell. The Bloodhound in its bloodlines gives it superb tracking ability. The Mastiff contributed its compact body, courage and an ever-alert disposition. When the Fila finds its quarry it does not attack, but rather holds it at bay until the hunter arrives. The Bulldog added the unforgiving impetuous temperament. The Fila has the ability to track, herd and control livestock and large game. When slavery was legal in Brazil, the Fila was used to return fugitives unharmed to their slave masters. The Fila’s great tracking ability led to its presence in North America and Europe. Due to its size and potential for aggression, it is unfairly banned in some countries.
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