Dog from Mallorca

Dog from Mallorca

FCI #249FCI Recognition: 1997Standard PLStandard EN

FCI Group

2FCI 249

Size

Medium

Origin Country

ES

Height

52-58 cm

Weight

30-38 kg

Lifespan

10-12 years

Temperament

CalmLoyalWary of strangers

Overview

Dog from Mallorca, also known as Perro Dogo Mallorquín or Ca de Bou, is a fascinating breed originating from the picturesque Spanish island of Mallorca. This typical molosser with a solid build and musculature attracts attention with its powerful appearance and noble character. This breed combines strength and courage with extraordinary gentleness towards its loved ones.

The history of this breed dates back to ancient times when these dogs protected Mediterranean ports from pirates and robbers. Dog from Mallorca was created by crossing Iberian mastiffs with fighting dogs brought by the British in the 17th century. For centuries, it served various functions - from guarding and hunting to bullfighting, which was popular in the 18th century.

Physically, it is a medium-sized dog, reaching a height at the withers of 52 to 58 cm and a weight of 30 to 38 kg. Its most characteristic feature is the massive head with a broad skull and powerfully developed jaw muscles. The short, hard coat comes in various color variations - brindle, fawn, and black, often with white markings.

The temperament of the Dog from Mallorca is extremely balanced. In a home environment, it presents a calm, gentle disposition and a deep attachment to the family. It is exceptionally patient with children, although due to its strength, supervision is required during play with the youngest. Its natural guarding instinct makes it alert and decisive in threatening situations, but when properly raised, it does not show unwarranted aggression.

This breed requires consistent training and early socialization. Although intelligent, it may exhibit some stubbornness, so it responds best to positive training methods based on rewards. The owner of a Dog from Mallorca should be experienced and able to firmly, yet respectfully, establish a hierarchy in the relationship with the dog.

In terms of grooming, the breed is relatively easy to maintain. The short coat requires only regular brushing, and baths are needed only when dirty. However, attention to oral hygiene, ear checks, and regular nail trimming is essential.

Dog from Mallorca needs a moderate amount of exercise - daily walks and play sessions are sufficient to maintain good condition. It is important to avoid overexerting young dogs to prevent joint problems. Special attention should be paid to weight control, as the breed tends to gain weight.

Currently, the Dog from Mallorca is valued both as a reliable guard dog and a wonderful family companion. Its combination of strength, courage, and gentleness makes it an ideal choice for experienced owners looking for a loyal, balanced companion. In the following sections, you will find detailed information about the health, grooming, training, and diet of this extraordinary representative of the molosser breeds.

The Dog from Mallorca displays the typical body structure of molossers - strong, compact, and muscular. The height at the withers ranges from 52 to 58 cm for males, with a weight of 30 to 38 kg. The body proportions are harmonious, with the length of the torso slightly exceeding the height at the withers.

The head is the most characteristic element of this breed. It is massive, wide, and powerful, with well-developed jaw muscles. The skull is broad and flat, with a distinct stop (transition from forehead to muzzle). The muzzle is also wide and powerful, slightly shorter than the skull. The nose is black, with wide nostrils.

The eyes are large, oval, deeply set, and widely spaced. Their color should be as dark as possible, in accordance with the coat color. The gaze expresses intelligence and confidence. The eyelids are well pigmented, preferably black or dark.

The ears are of medium size and have a characteristic shape resembling a rose petal - they are set high, folded back, exposing the ear canal. The skin of the ears is thin and delicate.

The torso is strong and well-built. The chest is wide and deep, reaching to the elbows, with well-arched ribs. The back is straight and strong, with short and muscular loins. The croup is slightly sloped, with wide hips.

The front limbs are strong, straight, and well-muscled, with strong shoulder blades closely adhering to the chest. The elbows are parallel to the torso, not turned inwards or outwards.

The hind limbs are even more massive and muscular than the front ones. The thighs are very strong, and the shins are well developed. The hock joints are relatively low set, providing the dog with stability.

The tail is set low, strong at the base, gradually tapering towards the end. When at rest, it hangs naturally; during movement, it rises to the level of the back but never curls over it.

The coat is short, smooth, and hard to the touch, closely adhering to the body. There are three basic coat colors available:

  • Brindle (tiger) - the most common, with dark stripes on a lighter background
  • Fawn - ranging from light beige to dark deer shade
  • Black - less commonly seen

White markings are permissible on the front paws, chest, and muzzle, but should not exceed 30% of the body surface. A black mask on the muzzle is desirable.

The overall appearance of the Dog from Mallorca exudes strength, confidence, and nobility. It is a dog with an impressive presence, whose body structure reflects its historical purpose as a guardian and fighting dog.

Characteristic Traits

Good with Children
Tolerates Cold Weather
Tolerates Hot Weather
Easy to Groom
Low Drooling
Not Prone to Obesity
Won't Escape
Strong Health

Pros

  • Strong and sturdy build
  • Loyal and devoted to family
  • Calm and balanced temperament
  • Brave guardian
  • Gentle with children
  • Easy to care for
  • Relatively healthy breed.

Cons

  • Requires consistent training
  • May be wary of strangers
  • Needs early socialization
  • Tendency to gain weight
  • Matures slowly
  • May show dominance over other dogs.

Behavioral Ratings

Breed History

The history of the Dog from Mallorca is a fascinating tale of dogs that have served various functions for centuries - from guardians of Mediterranean ports to fighting and hunting dogs. The roots of this breed date back to ancient times, and its development was closely linked to the history of the island of Mallorca and the entire Mediterranean basin.

Ancient beginnings (before the 13th century):

Since ancient times, navigation in the Mediterranean basin led to cultural and trade exchanges between nations. Along with goods, domestic animals traveled, including guard dogs essential in ports and coastal settlements as protection against pirates and robbers attacking from the sea.

Among these mostly large, strong, and resilient dogs with massive heads and powerful jaws, one type stood out - the Iberian mastiff. In Spain, these dogs were used for various purposes: as hunting dogs and in fights with bulls and other dogs. This type became the foundation for the future breed of Dog from Mallorca.

Arrival in the Balearics (13th century):

In 1230, King James I the Conqueror (Jaime I de Aragón) conquered the Balearics, expelling the Moors who had occupied the islands since the 8th century. Along with the royal troops, Iberian mastiffs arrived on the islands, which began to breed and adapt to local conditions. These dogs served as guardians and protectors for the new settlers.

British influence (18th century):

Based on the Treaty of Utrecht (1713), Minorca and other areas of the Balearics came under British control. British settlers brought their own fighting and guard dogs, which were crossed with local Iberian mastiffs. This crossbreeding enhanced the functional traits of the breed and contributed to the development of a characteristic phenotype.

The era of bullfighting (18th-19th century):

In the 18th century, dog fights with bulls became extremely popular in Mallorca and other islands. These dogs were known as Ca de Bou (the Catalan term meaning bullfighting dog) or Perro Dogo Mallorquín. Their task was to grab the bull by the nose or ears and hold it, which required extraordinary courage, strength, and determination.

During this period, the breed was deliberately bred for fighting traits - massive build, powerful jaws, courage, and insensitivity to pain. This selection shaped the physical and mental profile of the modern Dog from Mallorca.

First records and exhibitions (early 20th century):

In 1923, the Dog from Mallorca was first registered in the Spanish pedigree book (Libro de Orígenes Español - LOE). The first official presentation of the breed at a dog show took place in Barcelona in 1928 and 1929, which attracted the attention of breeders and enthusiasts beyond the Balearics.

However, after these initial successes, the breed experienced a drastic decline in numbers in the following decades. The reasons were manifold:

  • Prohibition of dog fights with bulls and fights between dogs
  • Socio-economic changes on the islands
  • Lack of interest in breeding
  • Competition from other breeds

By the mid-20th century, the breed was on the brink of extinction - only a few dozen purebred individuals remained.

Revival of the breed (1980s-1990s):

In the 1980s, a group of enthusiasts, mainly from Mallorca, undertook efforts to save and rebuild the breed. Systematic breeding was initiated based on preserved individuals, carefully documenting pedigree lines and striving for stabilization of the breed type.

The first official breed standard was developed, which was approved by Spanish cynological organizations. In 1996, the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) officially recognized the breed, publishing the international standard in December of that year (effective from December 11, 1996, with amendments from June 13, 1997).

The Dog from Mallorca was classified as:

  • Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossers, Swiss herding dogs
  • Section 2.1: Mastiff-type Molossers
  • Without working trial
  • FCI standard number: 249

International expansion (1990s - 21st century):

After official recognition by the FCI, the breed began to gain popularity outside Spain. Interest particularly increased in:

  • Russia and Eastern Europe - 1990s, where the breed was valued for its guarding traits and impressive appearance
  • Great Britain - the first individuals arrived around 2001
  • Germany, France, the Netherlands - stable breeding populations since the early 21st century
  • North and South America - growing interest in the last two decades

Contemporary times (21st century):

Today, the Dog from Mallorca is an established breed with a stable breeding population in many countries. Although it is not one of the most numerous breeds, it is respected among molosser enthusiasts as a dog with:

  • An authentic history and functional purpose
  • A balanced character combining strength with gentleness
  • Versatility - a family dog and guardian
  • Relatively good health compared to other molossers

Evolution of functions:

The transformation of the role of the Dog from Mallorca over the centuries:

  • Ancient-Middle Ages: guardian of ports and settlements against pirates
  • 18th-19th century: fighting dog (bullfights)
  • 19th-20th century: hunting dog, estate guardian
  • Contemporary times: family dog and companion, guard dog, show dog

This evolution reflects social changes and the human attitude towards animals - from exploitation in brutal entertainments to appreciation as companions and family members.

Significance of the name:

  • Ca de Bou (Catalan) - literally bull dog, referring to its historical function
  • Perro Dogo Mallorquín (Spanish) - Mallorcan dog, emphasizing geographical origin
  • Majorca Mastiff (English) - mastiff from Mallorca

Cultural heritage:

The Dog from Mallorca is part of the cultural heritage of the Balearics. The breed symbolizes the history of the islands, their connection to the sea, the spirit of independence, and courage. For the people of Mallorca, this dog is a source of regional pride and a symbol of authenticity.

The history of the Dog from Mallorca is a story of survival, adaptation, and transformation - from brutal fights to family salons, from the brink of extinction to international recognition. It is a living monument to the history of the Mediterranean and proof that even breeds with a fighting past can become noble companions of humans.