Majorca Mastiff

The Ca de Bou, also known as Perro de Presa Mallorquín, is a breed of dog native to the Balearic Islands (Spain), used for fighting and guarding. It stands out for its robust and powerful physique, with a massive head, large eyes and small, backward curved ears. Despite its past, it is a calm and sociable dog with humans, showing courage and loyalty, which makes it an excellent guardian.

General details

Dogs of the Ca de Bou breed are of medium size, with a height at the withers varying between 55 and 58 centimeters in males, and between 52 and 55 centimeters in females. In terms of weight, males usually weigh between 35 and 38 kilograms, while females range between 30 and 34 kilograms. Their life expectancy is estimated to be between 10 and 12 years. The breed is classified in Group 2 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which includes Pinscher and Schnauzer type dogs, Molossers, mountain type dogs and Swiss Cattle Dogs.

Breed history in brief

The Ca de Bou has its origins in the ancient Mediterranean culture, where maritime exchanges allowed the introduction of domestic animals, including large dogs used as guardians and hunters. Among them, the Dogo of the Iberian Peninsula stood out, used for hunting and fighting. In the 17th century, the arrival of the English in the Balearic Islands caused the hybridization of English guard and prey dogs with the Dogo de la Peninsula, giving rise to the Ca de Bou. This breed, recognized in the Spanish Stud Book in 1923, is distinguished by its role in bull fights, which earned it its name. Its inclusion in the United Kennel Club in 2006 underlines its relevance in today's canine community.

Breed characteristics

The breed has a typically Molossian general appearance, with a robust, slightly elongated body and a marked sexual differentiation in cranial volume, more noticeable in males. The head is powerful, with a large and broad skull, and the eyes are large, oval and dark in color. The ears, small and high and laterally set, are curved backwards. The neck is thick and strong, with a fine dewlap. At rest, the tail hangs naturally, but in action it arches slightly and rises to the level of the dorsal line. The coat, short and harsh, is preferred in shades of brindle, fawn or black. In temperament, the breed is calm, courageous and sociable with humans, showing loyalty to its owner. It shows confidence and security in guard and defense work, although it remains alert.

Common health problems

The Ca de Bou breed is generally in good health, although it may be susceptible to certain disorders common in dogs, such as hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc degeneration and eye infections.