Majorca Shepherd Dog

Other names: Majorca Sheepdog, Ca de bestiar

Majorca Shepherd Dog

The Majorca Shepherd is an all-purpose farm dog. They can hunt, herd, and are also used as watchdogs. Its exact origins remain unknown, but some experts suggest it was brought to Majorca by James I of Aragon in the 13th century. There are short and long-haired versions of the breed, but both have a distinct all black coat with very light white speckling. It has a rough appearance, which matches the dog’s robust personality. These dogs are brave, fearless, and tireless workers.

Key facts about the Majorca Shepherd Dog

Life expectancy :

7

19

12

14

Temperament :

Intelligent

Size :

Origins and history

Since ancient times, the Majorca Shepherd has worked as a herding dog, a watchdog, and a guard dog. Their origins can be traced back to the 13th century. It remains relatively unknown outside of its native Majorca and the breed standard wasn’t written until the 1980s. In 2006, the UK Kennel Club recognised the breed within the herding dog category. Although well-domesticated, the Majorca Shepherd is still a working dog; it is rarely kept as just a pet.  

FCI breed nomenclature

FCI Group

Group 1 - Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)

Section

Section 1 : Sheepdogs

Physical characteristics of the Majorca Shepherd Dog

Adult size

Female : Between 24 and 27 in

Male : Between 26 and 29 in

Weight

Female : Between 84 and 93 lb

Male : Between 84 and 93 lb

Coat colour

Black

Type of coat

Short
Long

Eye colour

Brown

Description

Medium size. Solid build. Long muzzle and pendulous ears. An open and friendly expression. Deep chest and long, straight back. Often mistaken for a Labrador crossbreed. 

Good to know

Due to this dog’s headstrong nature, it’s important that owners assert their personality over the dog. Owners should be firm and consistent, but never aggressive.

Without proper training, this dog can display aggressive behaviour towards strangers.

They prefer to be the only dog in the family.

Temperament

  • 66%

    Affectionate

    A friendly breed, but not particularly affectionate. This is a real working dog with a strong, independent personality.

  • 66%

    Playful

    Not very playful, although they will enjoy games that stimulate their natural herding instincts. 

  • 66%

    Calm

    This dog is full of energy. They also love exploring or investigating. Keeping them inside for long periods of time will lead to boredom and frustration. This is a real “outside” dog. Suitable for farm owners or dog lovers with large back gardens.

  • 100%

    Intelligent

    Highly intelligent animals and, in the right hands, easy to train. Far too intelligent for an inexperienced dog trainer.

  • 33%

    Hunter

    More of a herding dog than a hunting dog.

  • 100%

    Fearful / wary of strangers

    A brave and strong-willed animal. Will show no fear or nervousness around strangers. 

  • 33%

    Independent

    The Majorca Shepherd is a strong-willed dog that is used to working independently. They can be quite headstrong.

    Behaviour of the Majorca Shepherd Dog

    • 66%

      Tolerates solitude

      Although no dog should be left alone for prolonged periods of time, this one deals with solitude much better than most other breeds. 

    • 100%

      Easy to train / obedience

      These independent minded animals can be be difficult to train. Although they’re very intelligent, Majorca Shepherds are notoriously dominant. Handlers need to be firm, confident, and experienced. 

    • 66%

      Barking

      This dog doesn’t really like strangers and will often bark when they see one. They’re also very territorial. Barking is their way of saying “get out of my space.”  

    • 66%

      Tendency to run away

      A low-flight risk. The Majorca Shepherd is independent and athletic, but they’re also very loyal to their families. They’ll never stray too far from home. 

    • 66%