ShowTime Presas

the ability to verify Presas. Since Presas are influenced by several breeds, ShowTime Presas recognizes a true Presa which does not denote the influence of any other recognized breeds. ShowTime Presas is committed and dedicated to preserving the true Spanish Presa Canario. Why it matters… ShowTime Presas promotes and fosters the highest breeding standards. ShowTime Presas encourages sportsmanship and cooperation in the improvement and advancement of the Perro de Presa Canario. Origin of the Perro de Presa Canario

The Perro de Presa Canario is a large Molosser-type dog breed originally bred in the Canary Islands of Spain for working livestock. The name of the breed is Spanish, means "Canarian catch dog," and is often shortened to "Presa Canario", or simply "Presa." The breed is also called Dogo Canario, meaning Canarian Molosser. Research shows numerous books written by historians concerning the development of the known Perro de Presa Canario. Documentation of the original holding dogs date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. It is theorized the Presas existed or were brought to the Canary Islands of Spain by the Spanish Conquistadors or possibly both. These dogs were developed for guarding farms, struggling with cattle and the extermination of wild or stray dogs. There are several theories regarding the genetic contributions to the creation of the Presa Canario. It is almost certain that the cattle dog, the Iberian Presa (Perro de Ganado Majorero) provided a start to the founding of the Canary Presa. The Ganado was a mastiff type of average size, rustic, intelligent with an intuitive instinct, a fearless guardian. The bulldog varieties (Alano), known for it’s clutching instincts. The final ingredient that completes the foundation of the Presa Canario was the genetic infusion of the Bardino Majorero, a pre-Hispanic sheepdog originating on the Island of Fuerteventura. This dog was introduced for its intelligence, physical resistance, offering of excellent guardian instincts with little bark, extraordinary set of teeth and incorruptible courage. Breed Colorings and Markings

The Presa Canario is of medium height, with a geometric straight profile. The head is large, square, and with a wide skull. Proper head and good expression are part of the breed standard, and are manifest in the best breed specimens. The crossbreed produced a black mask with a brindled or fawn coat. The Presa Canario has chestnut colored eyes of medium size, and the ears are set high. The lips are thick and hang in an inverted V where they join; the flew may be slightly loose. The teeth are strong and the lining in the mouth is black. The breed has a round powerful neck with thick fur and loose skin with a broad deep chest, and a wide tail base. The tail is moderately high and reaches to the hock. The breed is also characterized by a sloping top-line (with the rear being slightly higher than the shoulders). The body is mesomorphic, that is, slightly longer than the dog is tall, contributing to the feline movement. The Presa Canario has strong, wide boned feet, and a cat like structure which is the essence of its gracefulness. The Presa should be powerful, balanced, and imposing in appearance. It is heavily built, but able to move with great athleticism. Presa ears are normally cropped both to create a more formidable expression. The original intent was to prevent damage while working with cattle. If cropped, the ears stand erect. In countries where ear cropping is banned, the ears are close fitting to the head, they hang down and should be pendant or "rose" shaped. Males average between 23 to 26 inches (58 to 66 cm) at the withers with a minimum weight of 100 pounds (45 kg). Females average between 22 to 25 inches (56 to 63 cm) at the withers with a minimum weight of 85 pounds (39 kg). Features for a Show Dog

These are features that will disqualify a show dog: Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid; viciousness or extreme shyness; an overshot bite; blue, gray, or yellow eyes; non-matching eyes; croup lower than withers; docked tail; absence of dark mask; white markings covering more than 20% of the dog; albinism; coat color or pattern can be any shade of fawn, black, and brindle in any combination of these colors. The temperament of the Presa should be sound with superior presence. The Presa Canario is a powerful looking dog with a severe gaze, well suited for guard and defense. The dog is accompanied by a grave deep bark, however it is known for being affectionate, docile, well behaved with the owner, distrustful of strangers, but fierce with intruders.