The Dogo Canario: majesty on four paws
The history of the Dogo Canario: From the Canary Islands to the world
The Dogo Canario originally comes from the Canary Islands, where it was used as a guard and working dog. Its ancestors are old Spanish mastiffs and bulldogs, which were brought to the islands by Spanish conquerors in the 15th century. These dogs were bred specifically to guard and herd livestock and as protection against predators. Over time, the Dogo Canario developed into a strong and fearless dog that served both in the fields and in the homes of the locals.
Who is the Dogo Canario suitable for?
The Dogo Canario is not suitable for everyone. It needs an experienced dog owner who provides it with clear rules and consistent training. This breed is particularly suitable for people with an active lifestyle and sufficient space, as the Dogo Canario needs plenty of exercise and mental activity. Families with small children should bear in mind that, despite its good-natured nature, the Dogo Canario requires a certain amount of caution when handling due to its size and strength.
Character: A loyal and protective friend
The Dogo Canario is known for its loyalty and protective instinct. He is courageous, even-tempered and self-confident, but also loving and affectionate towards his family members. He is often reserved and vigilant towards strangers, which makes him an excellent watchdog. With the right socialization and training, however, he can be a peaceful and good-natured companion.
Appearance: An imposing stature
The Dogo Canario is a large and powerful dog with an impressive musculature. Males reach a shoulder height of 60 to 66 cm and a weight of 50 to 65 kg, while females are somewhat smaller and lighter. Its short, dense coat is easy to care for and comes in a variety of colors, including brindle, fawn and black. Its broad head, pronounced jawline and dark, expressive eyes give it an unmistakable appearance.
Grooming: little effort, great effect
Grooming the Dogo Canario is relatively easy. Its short coat only requires occasional brushing to remove dead hair and keep the skin healthy. Regular checks of the ears, teeth and claws are also important to prevent infections and injuries. Despite its robustness, the Dogo Canario is prone to some health problems, including hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, so regular visits to the vet are essential.
Health: A robust companion
The Dogo Canario is generally a healthy and robust breed. With the right care and nutrition, it can reach a life expectancy of 9 to 11 years. It is important to ensure a balanced diet and avoid obesity to relieve pressure on the joints and promote general well-being. Regular exercise and mental stimulation also contribute to a dog's health and happiness.
Exercise: Active and full of energy
The Dogo Canario needs plenty of exercise and mental activity. Daily walks, playtime and training sessions are essential to burn off their energy and keep them balanced. Due to its size and urge to move, it is better suited to living in the countryside or in a house with a large garden than in a small city apartment.
Training: Consistency and patience
Training a Dogo Canario requires consistency, patience and experience. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to avoid unwanted behaviour and promote a well-behaved dog. Positive reinforcement and clear, consistent instructions are the key to success. This breed responds well to loving but firm leadership.
Behavioral traits: Loyal, alert and loving
The Dogo Canario is a loyal and watchful dog that is extremely protective of its family. It generally gets on well with children and other pets if it is properly socialized from an early age. However, due to his strong protective instinct, he can be suspicious of unfamiliar animals and people, which is why continuous socialization is important.
Recognition by the FCI
The Dogo Canario is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and is listed in Group 2, Section 2: Molossoids. This recognition confirms compliance with certain standards in terms of appearance, health and behavior.
