The definitive book on the Presa Canario Dog.
50 years of history, controversy and selection summarized by the man who rescued the breed from oblivion. No sugar-coating, no cheap marketing: documents, articles and first-hand experiences.
Inside you will find:
- The historical origin of the Presa Canario and the dogs of the Canary Islands.
- Key articles, controversies and documented complaints.
- Selection, function and real future of the breed.
- Stories of Irema Curtó kennels and Presas around the world.
If you truly love the Presa Canario, this is not just “another” book.
It is for those who are not satisfied with a short, polished version of the breed’s history or with pretty photos on social media. It is for those who want to understand what really happened in the Canary Islands, before, during and after official recognition.
Breeders and future breeders
Understand the true origin of the Presa, the mistakes that were made, the crossbreeding, the fraud, and what it really means to build a working bloodline.
Serious breed enthusiasts
If you own or dream of owning a Presa Canario, this book shows the breed without filters: its history, its job, its character and its real challenges.
Dog historians & nerds
Documents, council agreements, press articles, letters and testimonies that have rarely been compiled in a single volume.
Five sections to understand the Presa Canario from its roots.
This is not a training manual. It is an X-ray of the breed’s history, genetics and ethics, built against the current.
The dogs of the Guanches and the conquerors
The origin of the Canary Islands, dogs in Guanche myths and cults, the dogs of the aboriginal people and of the colonists. From early council agreements to the first ordinances mentioning “presa” dogs.
Birth, fraud and the struggle for the Presa Canario
Key articles on the Presa Canario Dog, the Spanish club, dog shows, prognathism, the true qualities of the Presa, and an open denunciation of the fraud surrounding the breed.
Testimonies from those who lived it
Interviews with historic figures, goatherds, breeders and key people who lived with the original working presa dogs long before any official standard existed.
Selection, function and the future of the breed
The origin of presa dogs and Dogo Canarios, differences between types, selection, hip dysplasia, real function, the importance of brood bitches and the challenge of breeding quality in a world of fashion and hype.
Irema Curtó and Presas around the world
Stories of “Perico 1927”, Irema Curtó Presas in different countries, travels, letters, anecdotes and an unapologetic defense of the functional Presa Canario, as it was meant to be.
You’re not just buying a book. You’re buying context.
Each copy is a reference piece for those who don’t want the history of the Presa Canario to be lost or re-written to fit marketing interests.
Premium printed edition
- Quality paper and careful layout.
- Over 450 pages of articles, letters and documents.
- Historic photographs of dogs, people and key moments.
Updated content
- 2nd edition revised in 2024.
- New notes, nuances and clarifications from the author and editor.
- Context to understand the current situation of the breed.
English language edition
- Perfect to share with breeders and enthusiasts worldwide.
- Ideal as a gift for serious Presa Canario lovers.
- A reference piece for your kennel or club library.
Let’s answer the main questions before you order.
Is this a technical handbook or a history book?
It is both. It is not a training manual, but a mix of history, opinion articles, documented complaints, letters and reflections on selection and the future of the Presa Canario. If you are looking for depth and context, this book is for you.
What’s different in the 2nd edition?
The second edition, revised in 2024, includes corrections, nuances and clarifications from the author, as well as updated context for the modern reader.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship from Spain to different countries. Delivery times and costs will depend on your destination. You’ll see the available options at checkout.
Can I order several copies for my kennel or club?
Of course. If you need several copies for your club, association or kennel, get in touch with us and we’ll help you organize the order.
Don’t let others tell you the story of the Presa. Read it from someone who lived it.
If the Presa Canario is part of your life, this book needs to be in your library. It’s the reference you will consult – and the one others will quote years from now.