Majorca Shepherd Dog Basics
When you see the Majorca Shepherd Dog for the first time, you may think that he looks like a black German Shepherd Dog. While these two breeds do not share much heritage, there are some noticeable physical similarities in their large, athletic builds and thick coats. The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a Spanish breed, however, and it was developed for shepherding cattle and also used as an all-purpose farm dog. If you are looking for a strong, courageous dog breed, the Majorca Shepherd Dog may be the one for you.
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a Spanish breed developed for shepherding cattle and used as an all-purpose farm dog.
Origin
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is an ancient dog breed that was used as a shepherd and all-purpose farm dog for many hundreds of years. The exact origins of this breed remain unknown, but one theory suggests that it arrived in the Balearic Islands shortly after the conquest of King James I of Aragon. A selective breeding program was started for the Majorca Shepherd Dog breed during the 1970s and the first breed standard had already been drafted by 1980. In 1982, the FCI accepted the Majorca Shepherd Dog as part of the Shepherd Dog group but it has yet to be accepted by the AKC and other groups.
Pedigree
The exact origins of the Majorca Shepherd Dog are unknown but it is thought to be an ancient breed, used throughout Majorca and the Balearic Islands as a shepherd and general-purpose farm dog.
Food/Diet
As a large-breed dog breed, the Majorca Shepherd Dog should be fed a high-quality commercial dog food diet formulated for dogs of its size. Because this breed is a medium-energy shepherd and guard dog breed, however, an active or working breed formula may be more appropriate to meet his needs.
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a strong-willed breed that is used to working independently.
Training
The Majorca Shepherd was developed as a shepherd and general-purpose farm dog so his independent and willful nature is part of his breeding. Because these dogs have a strong independent streak, you should be prepared to offer a firm and consistent hand in training. You need to establish yourself as the alpha of the household then set and stick to firm rules with your dog. These dogs are protective and have strong guarding instincts, so early socialization is also recommended to make sure that these dogs do not become overly protective around strangers. Though firm training and discipline is recommended, punishment is not – it may only lead your dominant-willed dog to develop aggressive tendencies.
Weight
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a large-breed dog that typically stands 24 to 28 inches tall and weighs 75 to 90 pounds at maturity.
Temperament/Behavior
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a strong-willed breed that is used to working independently. This breed will never hesitate to leap to the defense of his master and he will take his responsibility of guarding the territory seriously. These dogs are fairly dominant by nature, though not outright aggressive – still, plenty of training is recommended. This breed is confident by nature and he will always be a little bit suspicious of strangers.
Common Health Problems
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is generally a healthy and hardy breed but it is prone to several health problems related to its size. Large-breed dogs like the Majorca Shepherd Dog are prone to gastric torsion as well as various musculoskeletal issues like hip dysplasia and patellar luxation.
Life Expectancy
The average lifespan is 11 to 13 years.
Exercise Requirements
The Majorca Shepherd Dog was developed as a shepherd and farm dog so he has high needs for exercise. This breed requires a long daily walk as well as plenty of free time to run in a fenced yard. Without enough exercise, this breed is at risk for developing destructive behaviors.
The Majorca Shepherd Dog will take his responsibility of guarding his territory seriously.
AKC
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is recognized by the FCI but has yet to be recognized by the AKC.
Coat
The Majorca Shepherd Dog has a thick coat but it ranges in length. These dogs are always pure black in color, though some specimens of the breed may have white markings on the chest. The Majorca Shepherd Dog’s coat is also self-cleaning so you don’t need to worry about frequent bathing – occasional brushing is recommended, however, to distribute the natural oils produced in the skin which give the dog’s coat its shine.
Puppies
The average litter size for the Majorca Shepherd Dog is 4 to 5, though it is possible to have as many as 8 puppies in a single litter. Because the Majorca Shepherd Dog is such a dominant and willful breed, early socialization and training is a must – especially if you plan to keep this breed as a family pet. These dogs also require lifelong training to keep their dominant natures under control.
Photo credit: ErikCat/Shutterstock
