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As with any breed, those interested in purchasing a Presa Canario should carefully research breeders and a dog's ancestry to ensure that the breeding lines are healthy. Typically speaking, the higher the degree of consanguinity, the higher the likelihood of genetic defects. Due to the breed's vast gene pool, many of the genetic problems that affect other purebreeds are less evident. However, as the breed becomes more tightly interbred and bloodlines developed the incidence of genetic problems may increase.
As a large breed, the Presa Canario can be susceptible to hip dysplasia. Other possible (but generally uncommon) health problems include epilepsy, osteochondrodysplasias, demodectic mange and cryptorchidism. A health issue unique to Spain is canine visceral leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis is a blood parasite that has a long incubation period (of several years) and most often leads to death.
Lifespan
The average lifespan for the Presa Canario is 8-12 years.
Dogo Canario - Health Issues
Due to the low number of dogs in the US and even lower number of dogs tested for hereditary defects, there is not many know aliments specific to this breed. Canine Hip Dysplasia is probably the most widely know health concern to affect this breed, despite past claims that it does not. CHD is a degenerative joint disease known to have a hereditary base. The only way to control this is by screening all breeding dogs and all of their offspring. The DCCA is strongly advocating all dogs to be certified "phenotypically" normal by the OFA, or other techniques such as PennHip. More people need to get involved in screening their breeding dogs. (UK Hip Scoring, which can only be scored by The British Vetenary Association and only with a dog that holds a Kennel Club registration Number)
For further information on Canine Hip Dysplasia and a listing of OFA certified dogs, please visit the OFA website, UK BVA website.
Also reported in the breed is panosteoitis, knee injuries as well as congenital problems including patellar luxation and patellar evulsions, skin cysts, epilepsy and demodecosis.
