
Herding breed from Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
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).
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.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Supervise every dogβchild interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Modelled tendency Β· low confidence
Modelled tendency Β· low confidence
Modelled tendency Β· low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
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.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
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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.
The breed is described as loyal, intelligent, protective, courageous, and devoted. Individual dogs may vary, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
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.
Grooming needs are low (2/5) due to the short coat. Shedding is moderate (3/5). Regular brushing can help manage shedding.
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.
Apartment suitability is low (2/5), likely due to its large size and high energy. A home with a yard is more appropriate.
The breed originates from Majorca in the Balearic Islands, Spain. It was developed for herding and protecting livestock in Mediterranean conditions.
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.