I don't have time to read through the entire thread, so if any of these links have already been posted, I am sorry.
One of my favorite sites is dogbreedinfo.com
Here is the page that covers Presa Canario's specifically;
http://dogbreedinfo.com/canarydog.htm
The site gives very clear, simple but extensive info on virtually every breed out there. In addition, there is a quiz you can take that will allow the site to generate a list of dogs most suited to you and your needs.
Here is a link to the quiz;
http://dogbreedinfo.com/search.htm
You can also search here by category;
http://dogbreedinfo.com/searchcategories.htm
Categories such as "best with kids" "guardian" "apartment life" and "Low exercise demand" etc make it easy to use.
Here is a brief quote about the breeds temperament;
"The Canary Dog requires a very dominant owner who understand the alpha nature in canines. No member of the family can be uncomfortable around the dog. Canaries make outstanding guard dogs. Just their appearance is a deterrent not to mention their ability to confront any intruder. In the wrong hands this dog can be dangerous, but with the right owner it can make a nice, devoted companion. This is not a breed for first time dog owners."
My parents have had dogs since the day I was born, and I have had them ever since. Right now my wife and I have one Akita / German Shep. mix, one Pit-bull / AKita mix and one purebred yeller lab.
No dog is psychologically snaps or "turns" just because of its breeds. Having trained dogs most of my life, and having a good friend who trains protections dogs for the police across the country I can tell you that most "dog mauled ____" tragedies can be seen coming a mile away by anyone who cleary understands dog behavior.
I see a lot of guys puff there chests when breeders / trainers ask them "do you think you can handle a dominant dog?" This question is not to test you manliness, it is not about how tough you are.
You can handle a dominant breed when you have;
- A clear understanding of k9 agression
- A clear understanding of dominance and "pack order"
- A clear understanding of k9 social cues
- Have read one up-to-date training methods book for breed class
- Are comfortable around other peoples dominant breeds
- Have read at least one book on the specific breed you are interested in / and sat and discussed ownership requirements with at least on breed- specific breeder.
- Are prepared to ensure that your "working breed" receives enough daily exercise (45 minutes) and a weekly romp of lead in the boonies.
It is irresponsible to give a dog of courage and loyalty less than it deserves, and it is unsafe. Having said that, don't let anyone talk you out of a "protective, aggressive working breed" either, there is nothing to be scared of, just do your DUE DILIGENCE and enjoy a great companion and first line of defense. My Akita / German shep. mix has saved my life in the outdoors and none of my dogs will let anyone suspicious near my wife or kids. But as soon as I give them the ok, they happily lick the new person to death. I can walk all my dogs, off-lead, through down town and they will not leave my side. You have to KNOW you can train them to that degree.