The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a remarkable breed, originating from the island of Majorca in the 16th century.
They were bred to herd sheep and other livestock, making them highly intelligent and energetic dogs.
In terms of size, Majorca Shepherd Dogs typically weigh between 45-60 pounds and stand between 20-24 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their short, smooth coats require minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.
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Characteristics
The Majorca Shepherd Dog, also known as the Ca de Bestiar, is a robust and courageous breed that weighs up to 40 kg and is muscular.
This dog is built for work and requires a large property to roam and exercise, as its primary task is to protect the farm and herd.
He's a herding dog through and through, and needs to be given the opportunity to fulfill this task.
The Ca de Bestiar is not for beginners, as it can be unfriendly towards other dogs and strangers.
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It's best to keep him alone, without other dogs, to ensure his well-being and safety.
However, he's incredibly loving and protective of children, making him a great companion for families.
To keep him happy and healthy, you'll need to provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to balance out his strong temperament.
Health
Most Majorca Shepherd Dogs live from 11 to 13 years.
They are typically hardy and healthy, but owners and breeders should be on the lookout for certain conditions.
Their lifespan can vary depending on individual factors, but 11 to 13 years is a general guideline.
Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch any potential issues early on, which is essential for their overall health.
By being aware of these potential conditions, you can provide your Majorca Shepherd Dog with the best possible care.
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Origin and History
The Ca de Bastiar, also known as the Majorca Shepherd Dog, has a rich history that dates back to the Balearic Islands.
It's native to the island of Mallorca, where it was used as a herding dog for cattle herds due to its size.
Controlled breeding of this breed began in 1970, as it was threatened with extinction shortly after the Second World War.
The breed was used as a farm and guard dog, and its name literally means herding dog.
It was officially recognized by the FCI as a separate breed in 1982.
The Ca de Bastiar's exact origin is unclear, but it's believed to come from a cross between native and imported dogs.
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Training and Behavior
Training the Majorca Shepherd Dog requires starting as soon as possible in their life to develop sensible behaviors within the home.
Consistency is key, and all family members should have the same rules for the dog to avoid confusion. Positive reinforcement training is the best approach for this intelligent breed.
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is headstrong and requires an owner to assert their position of dominance early on. This breed responds well to positive reinforcement training.
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Socialization is crucial for this breed, especially when they are puppies, to expose them to a wide variety of people and animals. This will help them develop good social skills and reduce the likelihood of aggression.
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is naturally inclined to herd, patrol, and guard, and requires little training for these tasks. However, they do need to be socialized to new people and animals to avoid hostility.
This breed is not recommended for first-time owners or families with young children due to their strong will and defensive nature. They are best suited for experienced owners who can provide the necessary training and socialization.
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Suitable Accessories
To get started with your Majorca Shepherd Dog, you'll need a few essential accessories. A lead and a collar or harness are must-haves for walks and training.
You'll also need a food and water bowl to keep your dog well-fed and hydrated. A dog basket or mat is a great place for your dog to retreat to when they need some alone time.
A dog crate is useful for transportation in the car, providing a safe and comfortable space for your dog to ride in.
General Information
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a rare breed, with only a few hundred dogs registered worldwide.
They originated on the island of Majorca, off the coast of Spain, where they were bred to herd sheep and other livestock.
These dogs are medium-sized, with males weighing between 30-40 kg and standing between 55-65 cm tall.
They have a distinctive appearance, with a short, smooth coat that can be a variety of colors including white, black, and tan.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a popular choice for herding and working on farms.
Their high energy levels require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Their lifespan is around 12-14 years, making them a long-term companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Majorca shepherd dogs weigh?
Majorca Shepherd Dogs typically weigh up to 40 kg (88 lb). They are a sturdy breed with a robust build.
What color are Majorca shepherd dogs?
Majorca Shepherd Dogs are typically black or black with white markings on the breast. They come in two main coat colors.
Sources
- Ca de Bestiar (Majorca Shepherd Dog) (hundeo.com)
- standard (tiptopglobe.com)
- "11 Majorca Shepherd Temperament Traits (What Makes It Unique?)" (dogtemperament.com)
- "Ca de Bestiar (Majorca Shepherd Dog) Breed" (gopetsamerica.com)
- "Chien de Berger de Majorque" FCI Standard N°321 (fci.be)
- "The Story of the Modern Ca de Bestiar" (nijmeijer.com)
- Majorca Shepherd Dog Breed Information, Characteristics ... (dogzone.com)
- Majorca Shepherd Dog Breed Information and Pictures (petguide.com)
- The Majorca Shepherd Dog - The Academic Hound (academichound.com)
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