The hero of this article will be the Majorca Shepherd. She is also called the "Ca de Bestiary", or Majorca shepherd dog. These beautiful and stately animals are distinguished by their good working qualities and, of course, strength and endurance. Currently, there are two types of this shepherd dog - short-haired and long-haired. It is worth noting that the Majorca shepherd with short hair is more popular and is more common than with long. Therefore, if you prefer that the dog needs less care, then it is better to take a short-haired shepherd.
Originally from Castile. History and origin of black shepherd dogs
The Majorca Shepherd first appeared in the Balearic Islands. The first mention of it dates back to the sixteenth century. It was during that era that dogs brought to these islands from Castile began to live with peasant dogs. Therefore, there was a need to find a suitable occupation and field for them.
Since dogs on the island were most often used as an assistant shepherd on pastures, the main emphasis in breeding was placed on the working qualities of the animals being bred, and not on their appearance. Only dark color was preferred, since it is almost invisible in the dark. Regardless of which herd had to be protected, the Majorca Shepherd, whose price currently ranges from twenty thousand rubles, coped well with its difficult duties. The herd could consist of sheep, and pigs, and cows! The Majorca Shepherd felt good everywhere.
Breed distribution
After some time, people found another use for these dogs. Unfortunately, the Majorca Shepherd began to be used as a fighting dog. However, then this gambling pastime was prohibited by law. Despite their dark hair, these dogs tolerate high temperatures very well. For this reason, part of the shepherd dogs were taken to South Africa. There, animals were used as watchmen at local livestock farms, which had to be protected, first of all, from the attacks of coyotes. Later, due to its excellent working qualities, this black shepherd began to work in the police, helping to catch criminals.
During the war
At home, this breed was once very popular. But during the war in Spain, Ca de Bestiar almost disappeared. However, enthusiasts were able, through a long search for surviving animals, to restore their already small population.
In 1975, dog breeders finally approved the first breed standard. But nowadays these dogs remain quite rare animals. Even in the Balearic Islands themselves, the total number of dogs with a pedigree is very small.
Majorca Shepherd Dog. Breed description
The head of this dog is small. The length of the neck is equal to the length of the skull. The length of the cranial part of the head is correlated with the length of the muzzle in the same way. The very face of the shepherd is wedge-shaped and rather strong. Her forehead is flat and wide. The disadvantage is considered too massive head.
The eyes of the dog are medium-sized, almond-shaped. The color of the irises can be amber or honey. The eyelids with black pigment should fit snugly against the eyeballs.
The nose of a black shepherd is blunt and straight. Together with the skull, it should form parallel lines. Profile of a neat triangular shape, but the nose is square. The nostrils are large and open.
The ears of the dog are triangular and small. Must be set high. Despite the fact that for a long time the Majorca Shepherd was used in battle, her ears do not stop.
The molars should be developed, teeth white and strong. The bite should be scissor-like. The lips of this dog are dry and black.
The neck should be proportional to the body. Its shape resembles a regular cylinder. In addition, the neck of the Majorca Shepherd must be strong and muscular, and the skin supple and firm.
The height at the withers should be equal to the length of the body of the dog. The chest of the dog reaches the elbows and has a good width and depth. The croup of the dog is slightly sloping, strong and wide. The musculature of the dog is well developed.
Legs should be long and, of course, strong. The elbows of the animal should be pressed tightly to the body. Paws are wide with very flexible fingers. The disadvantage will be dewclaws.
Ca de Bestiard’s tail is straight, thick and long. It is thick at the base and tapers towards the end. Set low. Not subject to stopping.
The coat should be smooth, thick and shiny. In short-haired black shepherds, its length should not exceed three centimeters and is adjacent to the body. But on the back, its length can be up to seven centimeters. Sometimes the coat may be wavy. In winter, the Majorca shepherd overgrows. Coat appears even on the dog’s ears. However, its quantity and quality largely depends on the climate of the area where the black shepherd lives.
The black color is most appreciated in this breed. Small white spots on the neck as well as the chest and lower paws are also allowed.
Majorca Shepherd Character
The Majorca Shepherd is distinguished by its tirelessness. She is strong in spirit and body. Such a character will have even a puppy. The Majorca Shepherd was valued precisely for these qualities not only as a good shepherd dog, but also as a wonderful friend and magnificent companion.
The Mallorca Shepherd is a great runner, a brave defender of his territory and his home. Very often, dogs of this breed find out their leadership and superiority among other animals. Therefore, the future owner must be prepared for the fact that his pet will bully other dogs and even try to fight with them.
Attitude towards his master
With his master and his family, this dog will be very calm, friendly and affectionate. She is very patient and maintains her patience in critical situations. The Majorca Shepherd is quite independent and, as a rule, chooses one owner for itself, to which she is very attached and remains faithful to the end of her life. Outsiders, Ca de Bestiar is received with rather great reluctance. These dogs are very intelligent, easy to manage and obedient. But, like all representatives of such working breeds, the Majorca Shepherd dog needs some use of its energy. Idleness will be very destructive for her. But in any case, the black shepherd will be a great companion and watchman on your farm and in your home.
How to keep and care
This dog is vital for space. For this reason, it is often necessary and for a long time to walk with her. The Mallorca shepherd should run well on the street and throw out some of its boiling energy. A country house will be an ideal option for keeping dogs of this breed. Majorca Shepherd tolerates frost and heat well. They can be kept on the street, in a booth, without forgetting, of course, about long walks. Shorthair dogs do not require special care. From time to time they need to be combed out with a brush. In addition, it is necessary to treat the dog on time from ticks and worms. Mandatory going to the doctor once a year.
How to raise a puppy. Useful Tips
The Majorca Shepherd is recommended to start either for official work or for a sports career. These strong and dexterous dogs have every opportunity for these activities.
As for the upbringing, it is not much different from the upbringing of any other dog of the service breed. You should immediately discipline from puppyhood and show who is in charge of the house. In case of problems it is better to contact a professional.
Shepherd feeding
Feed your pet from one to three times a day. The number of feedings depends on the age of the dog. In addition, you can not give the animal food from the table so that he does not have bad habits. First, people should eat, and then their dog. At the same time, during a human meal, the dog should not stand at the table and beg.
You can feed the animal with both dry and wet food. There should always be clean water in her bowl. If desired, the Majorca Shepherd can be converted to natural food (raw or cooked meat, eggs, milk, cottage cheese).
Once every few days, the dog can be given boiled bones. Too often this should not be done. Otherwise, the animal may appear constipated.
Dimensions and Weight of Black Shepherd Dogs
The height at the withers of males reaches seventy-three centimeters, and that of females is sixty-eight centimeters. The average weight of a dog is thirty-five to forty kilograms.