Mary Allen
Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity and exercise needs, training, and care of the Ca de Bestiar dog breed in the profile.
Not much is known about the origin of this breed. However, it is known that the Ca de Bestiar has always guarded the homesteads on the Balearic Islands and was used as a herding dog for herds of cattle, for which it was well suited due to its size. In addition to domestic herding dogs, imported herding dogs are said to have been crossed. The Mallorca Shepherd was still widespread at the beginning of the last century, after the Second World War, it almost became extinct. Enthusiasts managed to get the first breed standard established in 1975. The FCI recognition took place in 1982.
General Appearance
The Ca de Bestiar, known in German as the Mallorca Shepherd, is a very strong dog with a primitive appearance. There are short and long hair varieties, the color of the fur with a dense undercoat is black. The triangular, kinked ears are set on the side.
Behavior and temperament
The Ca de Bestiar is a dog who is willing to work, who acts courageously and independently and likes to act independently. He is loyal to his family, but he is often less attached to strangers or conspecifics. He has a strong protective instinct.
Need for employment and physical activity
Bred as a herding and herding dog, the Mallorca Shepherd would like to have a job that matches its talents. He should have a herd to look after and needs plenty of exercises and physical activity.
Upbringing
This is by no means a beginner’s dog; anyone who is flirting with the breed should already have dog experience since the Ca de Bastiar is not completely uncomplicated. As already mentioned, he is not always well-disposed to strangers and conspecifics. This requires timely good socialization and consistent training from puppy legs onwards. In order to learn how to deal with other two- and four-legged friends and to avoid problems later on, it is advisable to attend a good dog school, and to do so early on. With consistent training, however, the Mallorca Shepherd dog becomes a great companion who courageously supports his pack, to which he is very loyal, and who fulfills his tasks with seriousness.
Maintenance
The level of care required depends on whether you own a dog of the shorthaired or the rarer longhaired variety. With a short-haired dog, occasional brushing is sufficient. A long-haired Ca de Bestiar should be carefully groomed every day, otherwise, its hair, which can be up to 7 cm long, will become matted. Particular attention should be paid to the dense undercoat.
Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases
Although the breed is very tall, as a pure working breed it is still healthy with regard to possible joint diseases.
Did you know?
Although this breed is black, it tolerates heat very well. The Australian Silky Terrier has a long mop of hair. However, this must not fall over the eyes – long hair falling down on the forehead or on the cheeks is considered a major defect.