Bardino Majorero - Facts and Information

Appearance
The Bardino Majorero is a medium to large sized, strong and robust dog breed with average height between 54-63 cm which is 21-25 inch and weight is typically between 25-45 kg, which is 55-100 pounds. Females are naturally smaller than males.

The coat of Bardino Majorero is relatively short or medium sized and soft. The fur is little bit longer on back of thighs and on the tail. The color is black or brown with brindle pattern. Sometimes, they can have white spots on feet or belly.

This breed has wide skull, tail is medium length and the ears are short, triangular and dropped.

Temperament
The Bardino Majorero was used for centuries as a cattle dog and as a guard dog, which formed the dogs personality. To be a good livestock protector, the dog must be courageous, territorial and protective and indeed, Bardino Majorero is alert and reserved towards strangers – both people and other animals. They definitely need proper early socialization with strangers, if you are raising your Bardino Majorero as a companion dog.

On the other hand, the Bardino Majorero is incredibly loyal, affectionate and gentle towards its family and they tend to create a strong bond with its owner. But because of the dogs strength and independent and protective temperament, this is definitely not a dog for novices, they need firm and patient trainer.

This is pretty active dog who will love to go on any outdoor adventure with you. They like longer walks or hikes and if you are not using the dog for work, they do need daily longer walks or good playtime to stay healthy and happy.

History
The Bardino Majorero was developed on the island of Feurteventura in the Canary Islands, which is a Spanish territory close to Africa. The history of this breed is pretty mysterious and one theory says, that the breed was living on the Fuerventura even before the arrival of European settlers, while other theory suggest, that it was the Spanish settlers who brought this dog to this region. It is very likely, that the Bardino Majorero is was developed by crossing native Fuerventura breed and some Spanish dogs.

The breed was used for centuries as a working dog on Canary Islands, but today, sadly, the Bardino Majorero is close to extinction and even though the breed was finally recognized by the Royal Canine society of Spain in 1994 there arent specific breeding plans to save the breed.

We are not sure about the breeds ancestry, but what we know is, that this dog played a role in development of Presa Canario, which is another strong dog from Canary Islands.

Health and grooming
There is only limited info about the breeds health and no real scientific studies about it, but according to few Bardino Majorero owners, typical lifespan should be between 11-12 years and the breed ocassionaly suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation or gastric torsion.

The maintenance is not extremely hard. Regular weekly brushing will keep the coat in top condition and minimize the shedding. Just like with all dogs you should regularly check the dogs ears, eyes and nails and clip them or clean them if needed.