Majorca Mastiff
Also known as Perro Dogo Mallorquín · Dogue de Majorque · Mallorca-Dogge · Ca de Bou
Spain, Molossian type
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 52–58 cm
- Weight
- 30–38 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 yrs
- Calm
- Confident
- Loyal
- Protective
- Strong-willed
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Majorca Mastiff
The Majorca Mastiff, or Ca de Bou, is a medium-to-large mastiff-type dog from Mallorca, Spain, historically used for guarding, herding and in bull-baiting. It is stocky, muscular and broad-headed, with a short, coarse coat typically in fawn, brindle or black shades. It is calm but powerful. It is a rare breed and primarily a guardian.
Temperament
Calm, confident and loyal to its family, usually reserved with strangers. It can be dominant with other dogs. It needs experienced handling, early socialisation and firm but fair training.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and play, around an hour, but avoid hard exertion in hot weather.
Grooming
The Majorca Mastiff has a short, harsh-feeling coat that sheds modestly. A weekly rub down with a rubber mitt lifts loose hair. Wipe the lip folds and any drool, and dry the skin after wet weather.
Care & wellbeing
Short muzzle and muscular build make it sensitive to heat, so avoid exertion in hot weather. Keep weight in check and watch skin folds.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 34 kg adult- Water
- 1.4 L–2 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,580 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Majorca Mastiff
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A mastiff-type dog from the Balearic Islands, also called Ca de Bou, historically used as a farm guard and for bull-baiting. It is powerful, loyal to its family and typically reserved with strangers.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Heat sensitivity
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
Not every Majorca Mastiff is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–12 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Majorca Mastiff right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Majorca Mastiff get?
Adult Majorca Mastiffs typically stand about 52–58 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 30–38 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Majorca Mastiffs live?
Typically 10–12 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Majorca Mastiff need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Majorca Mastiff need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Majorca Mastiffs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Majorca Mastiffs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Majorca Mastiffs good with children?
They're often better suited to adults or older, calm children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Majorca Mastiff live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Majorca Mastiffs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), heat sensitivity. Not every Majorca Mastiff is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Molossian type
- Internationally recognised
- 1963