El Majorero dog It belongs to a race native to Spain, specifically from the island of Fuerteventura. These dogs arrived with the first inhabitants, so they are one of the oldest breeds that exist. Its origin dates back two thousand years, reaching great popularity 500 years ago. Today they continue to exist despite the difficulties they went through.
The main work of these pets has been grazing, however have stood out as a watchdog due to their size and thanks to its evolutionary history it retains strong physical characteristics and a dominant temperament.
From
The oldest known document on the ancestors of the Majorero dog dates from the year 20 a. On a trip to the Canary Islands, King Juba II of Mauritania wrote in his diary a detailed description of some dogs originating from the islands that closely resemble the current breed. There is even a statue of this dog in the Roman city of Volubilis in Morocco, from the same time as the aforementioned ruler.
There is another theory that ensures that these dogs arrived on the island precisely with these inhabitants. However, the existence of these dogs on the islands for 500 years is still very significant, since the islands had very little contact with the mainland until the XNUMXth century.
During those five centuries the breed established itself as strong working dogs, since the conditions in Fuerteventura were difficult for its inhabitants. They subsisted on livestock, grazing the main function of these loyal and brave dogs.
After 1900 the islands showed a significant tourist increase that only brought advantages for its inhabitants, although not for the Bardino. The incorporation of other breeds and uncontrolled mixing almost caused the extinction of the Majorero dog.
Salvation for the breed came in 1975 when a group of students became interested in saving the Majorero dog. Although it was not easy, they did not give up their interest and in 1979 after a careful census they held the first monographic exhibition of the Perro Majorero, with a distinguished gathering of breeders, judges and experts of national and international character.
Features
Considering the particular and difficult conditions in which the Majorero dog breed has evolved, its characteristics are very specific, this being a large dog. With more than five hundred years dedicated to herding work, this animal has a strong body and a courageous temperament.
The females are smaller than the males and both have a wide skull that supports a powerful and muscular neck, being able to measure a height of 55 to 65 cm at the withers and weighing 35 to 45 kilos. The ears of this pet are located on the top of the head and they have a triangular shape; In addition, they have the particularity that they are very gestural, since they denote the mood of the pet.
The body of the Bardino has a rectangular appearance, with muscular limbs and gives the appearance of a low neck-to-head ratio. It presents the so-called nail in the air, which is an atrophied-looking finger. His trot is straight and graceful and his snatch is quick in contrast to a smooth gait. The adaptation of this dog to modern life requires an experienced owner who knows how to impose himself as a leader, in this way he will be able to discover in the Bardino (as he is also known) a faithful pet full of energy and enthusiasm.
Care
The life expectancy of this breed of dog is between 12 and 14 years. Obviously, reaching that expectation depends on the treatment it receives from its owner. It is also relevant to follow the fundamental rules for the care of these pets. Among these standards is weaning at the time recommended by the veterinarian and that is usually around three months.
While it is a puppy, the diet must be in accordance with the development process in which it is. It is very important that the pet has up-to-date vaccinations and a high quality diet to avoid any disease and obesity. They are dogs that require a lot of physical activity, so a sedentary lifestyle can lead to overweight problems. An improper diet could be complicated by a disease known as gastric torsion. All of this can be avoided by following the veterinarian's nutritional recommendations.
Hygiene is of great importance for any pet, especially for this breed of dog, since they like to be outdoors, so they are prone to acquiring parasites if the corresponding treatments are not applied. They should bathe with the recommended products only when necessary (every six to eight weeks) They should be brushed twice a week to remove dead hair.
The Bardino does not present genetic diseases, this being very important to know since it does not represent any complication as far as health is concerned. The reasons for this is that it has evolved without contact with other races for a long period of time. This results in no genetic mutations being present. counterproductive
The Majorero or Bardino dog breed he is very loyal to his owner and his character is friendly. It is an excellent watchdog due to its territorial condition. They must be educated from a young age to positively encourage their social skills. It is not recommended as a companion dog unless the owner agrees to meet the requirements of its physical and emotional maintenance. It is preferable to adopt this pet to enjoy rural areas. In urban environments it will require more attention and care.
Majorero dog temperament
When it comes to the behavior and temperament of this pet, you have to seriously consider the training given from puppyhood. This is perfectly normal, since every living being requires a minimum of education to achieve success in terms of social interaction.
Naturally they are territorial, friendly, brave and independent. If they are educated with positive reinforcement and good treatment, they adapt to the company and tolerate coexistence with other animals. He is good with children even though he always tries to shepherd.
From the beginning these pets should be educated by a single owner, as this will facilitate their training by seeing the owner as the leader of the pack and to adapt easily to the family. The mood and behavior of the pet is closely linked to a correct channeling of your energy, so you should have the opportunity to exercise and practice activities such as agility.