Majorero
Also known as Perro Majorero · Bardino · Majorero Canario
Spain, Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 53–63 cm
- Weight
- 25–45 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–13 yrs
- Protective
- Hardy
- Loyal
- Independent
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Majorero is a sturdy herding and guarding dog from Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands. It is medium-to-large and strongly built, and the name comes from the word for the island's people. It numbers only a few hundred dogs and is rarely seen off the islands.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 53–63 cm
- Adult weight
- 25–45 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
10–13 years
Most Majoreros live 10–13 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Traditionally a farm dog that both moved goats and guarded property, it tends to be loyal to its family and suspicious of strangers. Its protective streak needs careful management.
- Protective
- Hardy
- Loyal
- Independent
Food
For a typical 35 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,610 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.4 L–2.1 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
60–90 min a dayIt needs a good amount of daily activity and does best with space and a job, such as farm work or structured training.
Grooming & shedding
The coat is short and easy to keep; a weekly brush is usually enough.
Health
Start socialisation early and keep training calm and consistent, especially around visitors. Because it is a rare breed, contact the Canarian breed association for advice on breeders. There is very little published health information.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
- Hip dysplasia (general risk in dogs of this size)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
Not every Majorero is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The Majorero has no early written record, but has long worked on Fuerteventura's farms. Conservation began in the 1970s, and a single-breed show at Gran Tarajal in 1979 drew attention from breeders. A protection society was approved in 1989, the Spanish kennel club recognised the breed in 1994 and national recognition followed by royal decree in 2001.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España and in Spanish law; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Majorero 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
Think twice if
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–13 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.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Majorero FAQ
How big does a Majorero get?
Adult Majoreros typically stand about 53–63 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–45 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Majoreros live?
Typically 10–13 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 Majorero 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 Majorero need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Majoreros easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Majoreros shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Majoreros 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 Majorero live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Majoreros have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published, hip dysplasia (general risk in dogs of this size). Not every Majorero is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.