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Majorca Shepherd Dog
Herding breed from Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Majorca Shepherd Dog
The Majorca Shepherd Dog, also known as Ca de Bestiar, is a large, powerful herding breed from the Balearic Islands, Spain. It has a short black coat and is described as loyal, intelligent, protective, courageous, and devoted. This breed was developed for herding and protecting livestock in Mediterranean conditions. Its recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight ranges from 35 to 40 kg for both sexes, and estimated height ranges from 65 to 73 cm. The estimated lifespan is 11 to 13 years. The breed has a high energy level (4/5) and trainability (4/5), low grooming needs (2/5), and moderate shedding (3/5). It is rated as suitable for children (4/5) but less so for other dogs (3/5) and apartment living (2/5).
Quick facts
Majorca Shepherd Dog at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHerding
OriginMajorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Lifespan11–13 years
Male weight35–40 kilogram
Female weight35–40 kilogram
Male height65–73 centimetre
Female height65–73 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Majorca Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed from the Balearic Islands, specifically Majorca, Spain. It has been used for centuries as a shepherd and livestock guardian, adapted to the Mediterranean climate. The breed is known as 'Ca de Bestiar' in its native land. It was officially recognized with a breed standard in 1980. The breed's history is rooted in herding and protecting livestock, but specific dates or events beyond the 1980 standard are not documented in the available facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
35–40 kilogramAdult weight65–73 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsBlackRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Loyalintelligentprotectivecourageousdevoted
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Majorca Shepherd Dog-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Majorca Shepherd Dog puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight35–40 kilogramAdult female weight35–40 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Majorca Shepherd Dog?
Estimated adult weight is 35 to 40 kg for both males and females. Estimated adult height is 65 to 73 cm. Estimated lifespan is 11 to 13 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of the Majorca Shepherd Dog?
The breed is described as loyal, intelligent, protective, courageous, and devoted. Individual dogs may vary, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
How much exercise does a Majorca Shepherd Dog need?
The breed has a high energy level (4/5), indicating a need for regular, vigorous exercise. However, specific exercise requirements are not detailed in the facts.
What are the grooming needs of a Majorca Shepherd Dog?
Grooming needs are low (2/5) due to the short coat. Shedding is moderate (3/5). Regular brushing can help manage shedding.
Is the Majorca Shepherd Dog suitable for families with children or other pets?
The breed is rated as suitable for children (4/5), but compatibility with other dogs is lower (3/5). Individual temperament and early socialization play a key role.
Can a Majorca Shepherd Dog live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is low (2/5), likely due to its large size and high energy. A home with a yard is more appropriate.
Where does the Majorca Shepherd Dog originate from?
The breed originates from Majorca in the Balearic Islands, Spain. It was developed for herding and protecting livestock in Mediterranean conditions.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.