Majorca Shepherd Dog Information & Dog Breed Facts

Introduction

A pitch-black dog that looks like a Labrador that has lived on Majorcan farms for centuries. They have a muscular build which gives them the stamina to be able to herd animals hours on end without tiring. They need a large amount of exercise, especially if not kept on a farm where they feel their best and most comfortable being able to shine their talent.

They are known to be territorial which can make it difficult for them to feel at ease with new people or animals but this is also one of their advantages when protecting a farm from strangers or predators. Whilst many herding dogs can be kept comfortably in a family environment this dog is recommended for people with past experience with larger breeds.

Majorca Shepherd Dog History

This dogs original Spanish names are CA de Bestiar or Perro de Pastor Mallorquin. They are thought to have been in existence since ancient times. They have been bred with many other Majorcan dogs and even European shepherds until 1970 when restrictions were put on their breeding.

The breed standard has only been written in 1980, not so long ago. It was in 2006 when the UKC recognized them within the Herding dog group. They were used to herd animals and to protect them via guarding. It has also been stated that they have been used for dog fights because of their build and character, a practice that now is luckily illegal. They are still used on farms today mostly in Spain, their home country, they are rarely spotted anywhere else.

Appearance

They are medium-sized and look similar to a black Labrador with a more athletic build. Because of their purpose to herd and guard, they are designed to be deft on their feet and have good overall muscling. Their muzzle is longer than their scull and they have a straight nasal bridge. Their nose is pitch black just like the rest of their body which helps them be invisible at night. Their eyes are considered to be small, set widely apart with a color variety of amber or brown. Their ears should not be cropped, instead should let them be in their natural shape, hanging close to their face.

Their body is built for what they are so good in, with a short and muscular neck, deep chest, and straight back supported by muscular limbs. Their compact paws end in black claws giving them an agile gait. Their tails should not be docked and it reaches roughly to the level of the hocks. Their fur is short and straight with a fine undercoat.

A short amount of white fur is allowed on the chest but not anywhere else on their body. There is also a variety of the Majorca Shepherd dog with the only difference being that the fur is 7 cm instead of the 2. The black fur is not considered to be ideal for dogs working in the Mediterranean climates but these dogs are used to it and acclimated amazingly. Their height is measured between 56cm to 61 cm, weighing around 35-40 kg which makes them a pretty large companion.

Character

As mentioned above this breed can be quite difficult for beginner owners for multiple reasons. Please be considerate of these characteristics before deciding to own this extraordinary companion. They are energetic, protective, and courageous just like expected from a dog working on a farm. They will patrol their land, herd their flock and guard their territory. They will warn off any intruder or stranger either animal or human.

They can potentially become aggressive if the situation requires them to. They are headstrong, dominant and could try to take the lead and follow their own head instead of being submissive and waiting for commands. They are independent and used to working alone, respecting this trait they are best to be kept as an only dog. That’s when they feel the most comfortable. They require training and socialization from a very young age to be able to show their best abilities without overpowering their owner.

They will bond with their master and protect them through thick and thin. When strangers arrive in their home they can be suspicious so they need time to accept and allow new people on their territory. Their protective nature is inherited so it most likely can not be erased completely even with training. They are not recommended for owners with no experience or families with small children.

Training

Their training is essential from the very beginning to ensure the development of sensible behaviors within the home. Due to their character, the owner must assert their position as a leader very early on. They are very intelligent and enjoy positive reinforcement training. Consistency is key, every family member should keep the dog to the same set of rules. When it comes to their “job” the Majorca Shepherd dog instinctively knows how to herd, guard and patrol. The owners should focus on socialization from a young age introducing their puppy to a large variety of dogs, animals, and humans.

Health

Most Majorcan Shepherd dogs live from 11 to 13 years, they are considered to be healthy and happy companions but there are a few things to look out for as with any breed:

1. Gastric bloat

Dogs with deep chests such as the Majorcan Shepherd are more prone to develop gastric bloat. Affected dogs will have a visibly bloated abdomen and appear very uncomfortable often pacing. In more serious cases the stomach can twist over, trapping the gas inside. It can be life-threatening and requires surgery to save their lives.

2. Hip Dysplasia

As any medium to large-sized breed, they are prone to hip Dysplasia. It can be passed genetically and is influenced by lifestyle and diet. Early signs of the disease are hard to see since are very subtle but later on, they can cause severe discomfort and lameness. The affected dogs often lose muscle mass on their hind limbs finding it difficult to walk or even stand.

Activity and Exercise

They require hour-long daily walks if not kept on a farm. They should have the opportunity to roam freely on lots of lands and at least have a backyard for them to exercise themselves throughout the day. Working dogs by nature need commands and a variety of new tasks to be kept entertained and not get bored. If they are not provided with enough stimulation they can easily find some activities in the yard or in the house that cause trouble and lead to destroying their surroundings. They are also prone to excessive barking if not satisfied.