[urbanassault]

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.. The Presa Canario is known to be a cross between the Olde English bulldogge, English Mastiff, and the fiery Bordino Majerro Cattle Dog. What is certain is that this dog, of sizeable body and head and extraordinary temperament, has always been used in the Canary Islands to guard farms and cattle.

They were not bred to herd cattle but to protect cattle.