The history of the Canary includes the now extinct native dog of the Canary Islands, the Bardino Majero, crossed with imported English Mastiffs. It is interesting to note that the Islands were not named for the small yellow songbird known as the Canary, but rather for the ferocious fighting dogs bred on the Islands: From the Latin “cane” or “canis” dog came the “Island of Dogs”. . Another name for this type of massive Mastiff dog is the Perro De Presa Canario. There was a time when dog fighting was a common and popular form of entertainment in Europe and the British Isles and various breeds were developed especially for their fighting ability and stamina. Some of the necessary attributes of fighting dogs were: tough skin (often with thick folds or dewlaps on the neck), strong jaws, and punishing power and strength. The Canary was developed exclusively as one of the fighting dogs and was used for that purpose in the early years of its development. When the sport was banned in the Islands, this breed nearly became extinct in the 1960s. Fanciers of the breed took notice and made serious efforts to perpetuate the breed. Today it enjoys some popularity as a watchdog. In the United States, this dog is not registered with the American Kennel Club.

This is a dog with a powerful appearance. The head should be almost as wide as the dog, with a fairly square profile. The jaw is strong and the muzzle deep. The ears are always cropped. The dog should appear slightly high at the rear with the withers lower than the croup. The color can be fawn or brindle of different shades and some white. The Canary has thick skin, especially to protect its body from dog bites, strong and heavy bones, it must have a powerful appearance and a massive head with a large jaw. The entire appearance should present a somewhat intimidating image. The dog must be 21 to 25 inches tall and carry a weight of 100 to 115 pounds. The short coat is easy to groom. Brushing with a brush and wiping down with a damp towel is usually all that is needed. This dog sheds, of course, and the hairs can be stiff and somewhat wiry.

The Canary is not for the timid owner. No member of the family that owns a Canary should feel uncomfortable around dogs. this is a breed that requires a dominant owner. It presents a terrifying picture and may be a dog that shows aggression towards humans. Their appearance alone is a deterrent to strangers. The canary makes an excellent watchdog but needs to be in homes that set strict rules and are knowledgeable about obedience. Once domain boundaries are established, the Canary is extremely loyal and shows great affection for its own family and does not allow any trespassers to enter its territory without permission, whether human or other animals.