Perro de Presa Canarios, also known as the Canary Mastiff, are a powerful and impressive breed of dog that has an intriguing history. Originally from the Canary Islands, these dogs were bred for specific purposes that helped shape their unique characteristics. In this blog post, we will explore what Perro de Presa Canarios were bred for and how it has influenced their behavior and traits.
The History of Perro de Presa Canarios
To understand the purpose behind breeding Perro de Presa Canarios, we need to delve into their rich history. These dogs have been around for centuries and were initially developed by Spanish conquistadors who arrived in the Canary Islands during the 15th century. The exact lineage of this breed is believed to be a cross between several large Molosser-type dogs brought by these conquerors.
Guarding Livestock and Property
One primary role that Perro de Presa Canarios excelled at was guarding livestock and property. Their imposing size, strength, agility, and protective instincts made them ideal guardians against intruders or potential threats to valuable resources such as cattle or crops. These dogs would fearlessly stand up against predators like wolves or even humans attempting theft or harm.
Their ability to assess situations quickly allowed them to act swiftly when necessary while remaining obedient under proper training commands. This trait became crucial in protecting not only livestock but also their human companions from any threat.
Bull Baiting: A Historical Sport
In addition to being skilled protectors, Perro de Presa Canarios were also used in bull-baiting activities during earlier times when such events were popular forms of entertainment across Europe. Bull-baiting involved releasing a fierce bull into an arena where specially bred Bulldogs would attempt to immobilize the bull by latching onto its snout. The Perro de Presa Canarios were tasked with controlling and subduing these powerful Bulldogs during the events.
This role required immense strength, agility, and a high pain threshold as they had to withstand the intense physicality of such spectacles. However, it is important to note that this bloodsport has been abolished for many years now due to ethical concerns and animal welfare movements.
Modern Roles
While their historical purposes may not be relevant today, Perro de Presa Canarios still possess qualities that make them exceptional in modern roles. They are often employed as working dogs in various capacities such as search-and-rescue operations or police work where their strength, intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts can be put to good use.
Furthermore, their stable temperament makes them excellent family companions when properly trained and socialized from an early age. Their imposing appearance alone serves as a deterrent against potential threats or acts of aggression towards their owners or property.
In Conclusion
Perro de Presa Canarios were originally bred for guarding livestock and property with a fearless demeanor rooted in their history on the Canary Islands. Additionally, they served roles in past bloodsports like bull-baiting which have long since been banned due to ethical concerns. Today, they excel at various tasks including rescue work while remaining loyal family pets capable of providing both protection and companionship. Understanding what these extraordinary dogs were bred for sheds light on why they possess unique traits that set them apart from other breeds.
