Majorca Mastiff Breed Profile History to Ownership

The Majorca Mastiff is an ancient breed that originated on the island of Majorca, off the coast of Spain, over 2,000 years ago. They were first bred as guard dogs to protect their family and property from intruders.

These massive dogs were highly valued for their strength, loyalty, and protective instincts, which made them a staple on farms and in homes throughout the island. They were often used to guard livestock and property from wild predators.

The Majorca Mastiff is a large dog breed, weighing between 100 and 200 pounds and standing between 26 and 30 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including brindle, fawn, and black.

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The Majorca Mastiff has a rich and complex history that spans centuries. Originally bred for blood sports like bull-baiting and dog fighting, the breed was highly prized for its ferocity and bravery.

The Ca de Bou was first developed on the island of Majorca, where it was used to control cattle and participate in blood sports. By the 18th century, both bull-baiting and dog fighting were well-established on the island.

The breed was saved from extinction by enthusiasts from mainland Spain, who began exhibiting it and eventually got it recognized by the Real Sociedad Canina de España. The breed was definitively accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1963.

The Ca de Bou was used as a guard dog and watchdog after the decline of blood sports. It was first registered by the FCI in 1964.

The breed experienced a resurgence in popularity in the late 1980s, becoming especially popular in Russian and Eastern Europe. The first Ca de Bous were introduced to the UK around 2001.

The Ca de Bou was established in the Spanish Stud Book in 1923, and was first exhibited in Barcelona in 1929. The Majorca Mastiff was recognized by the United Kennel Club on July 1, 2006.

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The Majorca Mastiff is a gentle giant, but don't let its size fool you - it's a watchdog and a guard dog at heart. It's extremely powerful, but not athletic enough to be a successful hunting breed.

They're quiet by nature, but can be courageous and brave when challenged. With a strong and massive head, it's no wonder they exude self-assurance.

The Ca De Bou has a reasonable level of intelligence and responds well to basic obedience training. However, they may struggle with advanced or overly complicated commands, so keep training sessions simple and fun.

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The breed's general appearance is quite distinctive.

A medium size dog, the breed is typically of a Mastiff type.

Strong and powerfully built, the breed's physique is readily apparent.

The difference between the sexes is most noticeable in the head, which is significantly larger in circumference in males than in females.

The forequarters of this breed are quite distinctive. Shoulder blades and upper arms are moderately short and slightly slanting. They are set well apart, giving the breed a unique appearance.

The Majorca Mastiff's grooming needs are quite straightforward. A quick brush once every few weeks is all he really needs.

The Ca de Bou, another breed, also requires minimal grooming.

The Majorca Mastiff is a sturdy and tough breed with an average life expectancy of 11 years. This means you can expect a long and healthy life with your furry friend, as long as you take good care of them.

With proper care and attention, Majorca Mastiffs grow up to be strong, well-built, and very self-assured dogs. This is a testament to their well-bred nature and the importance of responsible breeding practices.

However, it's essential to keep an eye on your Majorca Mastiff's diet to prevent unwanted weight gain. This breed is not highly active, so overfeeding can quickly lead to health issues.

Some potential health issues to watch out for in Majorca Mastiffs include hip dysplasia and bloat. These are serious conditions that can have a significant impact on your dog's quality of life, so it's crucial to stay on top of their health and catch any potential problems early.

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The Majorca Mastiff, also known as the Ca de Bou, is a breed that's naturally wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.

They're fiercely loyal and protective of their families, but can be quite friendly and affectionate with those they trust.

Their calm and relaxed nature makes them a great fit for families with children, as long as they're socialized properly from an early age.

The Ca de Bou is not a high-maintenance breed, but they do need regular exercise and companionship to prevent destructive behavior.

Big dogs like the Ca de Bou have big appetites, but that doesn't mean they're greedy or gluttonous - they just need a balanced diet to stay happy and healthy.

Early socialization is crucial for this breed, especially since they can be wary of strangers and may take time to warm up to new people.

The Ca de Bou is a natural watchdog that only barks when necessary, making them a great choice for homeowners who value a quiet and peaceful living space.

They're not overly demanding, but they do appreciate a few strokes and cuddles from their owners - just be sure to respect their boundaries and personal space.

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Purchasing a Majorca Mastiff can be a significant investment. Expect to pay around $1,000 to $1,500 for a puppy from a reputable breeder.

Finding a Majorca Mastiff in a shelter is a long shot, as the breed is still recovering from near extinction.