Purrley,

That story was horrible. I saw some pictures of the victime, and almost threw up! How irresponsible of the owners. Supposedly, the breed is tame with the family, but distrustful and very violent with strangers. (if so, why put the animal in a situation where he could encounter strangers like and apartment building!).

Origins of the Breed

Since the 16th century, the Presa Canario has been mentioned in documents of the Canary Islands. It is assumed that it was introduced into the Islands by the Conquistadors and Spanish Colonialists. With time and in the isolation it has become a breed in its own right. It is also believed that it has been influenced by other breeds from Great Britain, Cuba, etc. What is certain is that this dog, of sizeable body and head and extraordianry temperament, has always been used in the Canary Islands to guard farms and cattle. When the breed is finally recognised by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the Presa Canario will also be known as Dogo Canario.

General Form and Character
It is an extraordinarily powerful looking dog with a severe gaze. Especially suited to guarding and defence. It is of firm temperament with a grave and deep bark. The Presa Canario (Dogo Canario) is affectionate, docile and well-behaved with his owner and family, but fierce with strangers. Independent and aggressive with other dogs, both of his own breed and other breeds. It has been used in the past as an excellent fight