Petopedia
Majorca Shepherd Dog: Ca de bestiar, Majorca shepherd dog

Majorca Shepherd Dog

Also known as Ca de Bestiar · Chien de Berger de Majorque · Mallorca-Schäferhund · Perro de Pastor Mallorquĺn

Spain, Sheepdogs

Size
Medium
Height
55–66 cm
Weight
25–35 kg
Life expectancy
—
  • Alert
  • Loyal
  • Hardworking
  • Intelligent
Energy4 of 5
Grooming needs2 of 5
Trainability4 of 5

Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.

About the Majorca Shepherd Dog

The Majorca Shepherd Dog, or Ca de Bestiar, is a medium-sized herding and farm dog from the island of Mallorca, Spain, used to manage livestock and guard farms. It is a sturdy dog with a short or medium-length coat, commonly black, sometimes with fawn markings. It is a rare breed. It is a rare breed known mainly in its home region.

Temperament

Alert, loyal and hardworking, often reserved with strangers. It is intelligent and does best with firm, fair training and early socialisation.

Exercise

Needs plenty of daily exercise, around an hour or more, and a job or mental activity.

Grooming

Short to medium coat that needs a weekly brush and more during shedding.

Care & wellbeing

Keep weight healthy, and provide secure fencing as it may roam. Dental care and routine vet checks are recommended. Detailed breed information is limited.

Daily needs at a glance

For a typical 30 kg adult
Water
1.2 L–1.8 L
a day
Energy
≈ 1,440 kcal
a day, neutered adult
Exercise
90–120 min
a day
Grooming
A brush once a week

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 Shepherd Dog

Shedding3 of 5
Good with children3 of 5
Apartment living2 of 5

Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.

History

A Spanish herding dog from Majorca, used to handle sheep and goats on the island. It is a lean, hardy working dog with a short coat that copes well with the Mediterranean climate.

Health

There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the Majorca Shepherd Dog. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.

Not every Majorca Shepherd Dog 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 commitment of many years

A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.

Is a Majorca Shepherd Dog right for you?

Could suit

  • Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
  • People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
  • First-time owners prepared to train consistently

Think twice if

  • You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day

Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.

Common questions

How big does a Majorca Shepherd Dog get?

Adult Majorca Shepherd Dogs typically stand about 55–66 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–35 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.

How much exercise does a Majorca Shepherd Dog need?

As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.

How much grooming does a Majorca Shepherd Dog need?

A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.

Are Majorca Shepherd Dogs easy to train?

Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.

Do Majorca Shepherd Dogs shed?

A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.

Are Majorca Shepherd Dogs good with children?

Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.

Can a Majorca Shepherd Dog live in a flat?

It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.

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
Sheepdogs
Internationally recognised
1982