9 Curiosities About the Majorca Shepherd Dog

Written and verified by the biologist Cesar Paul Gonzalez Gonzalez

Written by Cesar Paul Gonzalez Gonzalez

Last update: 27 December, 2022

The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a beautiful breed of dog characterized by a black coat and a slender body. In addition, it is used as a herd guardian, so it has great physical endurance and is quite intelligent.

As its name suggests, the Majorca Shepherd Dog originates from Majorca, an island in the Balearic archipelago. Apart from herding cattle, it has also been used to guard horses and even pigs. For this reason, it’s a breed loved by the locals and highly esteemed as a working dog. Of course, the Majorca Shepherd Dog still has some curiosities to learn about…

Little known facts about the Majorca Shepherd Dog

This breed of dog is usually quite affectionate, loyal, intelligent and energetic, qualities that are very popular and essential in livestock breeding. However, it possesses many other incredible traits that could change the traditional view of this dog. Here are some of the dog’s curiosities.

1. They’re very shy

This may seem contradictory, as the Mallorcan Shepherd tends to be very self-confident. However, they’re a bit shy when it comes to socializing with other dogs or people. In fact, this trait is what allows them to be considered a good watchdog, as they’re wary of strangers and protect their owners from danger.

2. They’re not only black

According to the standard of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, the entire body of the Majorca Shepherd Dog must be jet, ordinary, or piebald black. Despite this, some dogs have white patches on different parts of the body, so not all dogs of this breed are completely black.

3. They love petting

Most sheepdogs tend to be somewhat independent and don’t require a lot of petting or praise. However, this doesn’t apply completely to the Majorca Shepherd Dog, as they’re very close to their family and love to be petted. In fact, for this reason, they also get along very well with children. They love to be the center of attention and play with them.

4. Some of them have long hair

Another curiosity about the Majorca Shepherd Dog is the existence of a long-haired variant. Usually, these dogs are characterized by having a short coat that stands out with their slender body, but in the case of the specimens with long hair, it makes them look more adorable and friendly.

5. It isn’t good to give them too many treats

The diet of the Majorcan Shepherd Dog needs to be of good quality, as their metabolism tends to be prone to obesity. For this reason, it is recommended to restrict the use of treats or avoid them altogether. In the long run, this will help to avoid problems such as hip dysplasia or joint problems.

6. It’s a healthy breed

As long as a healthy diet and proper exercise routine is maintained, this breed won’t be very susceptible to most common diseases. Of course, as it ages, its body will show the repercussions of the wear and tear of time, which will affect its health.

7. They have marks of “purity”

At first sight, it’s difficult to know if a dog is a pure breed or a mongrel, as you need to carry out a genealogy where its ancestors are shown. However, if a Majorca Shepherd Dog is “pure”, it will have a black palate and gums, instead of the usual pink color.

8. They’re very loyal

The Majorca Shepherd Dog is a very intelligent, docile, and loving breed, but it’s also very loyal. In fact, even if it’s well trained, it’ll usually only accept orders from its owner, and often won’t obey other people. Only people who have formed a close bond with the dog are the only ones it obeys.

9. It isn’t easy to earn their respect

As mentioned above, this breed is one of the most affectionate and loving among shepherd dogs. However, in order for the dog to offer you affection, you must first gain its respect and trust. This can take a long time depending on the dog’s temperament, but once they consider you their “friend”, they’ll look after you and seek you out as if you were their treasure.

The curiosities about the Majorca Shepherd Dog make this breed even more amazing. If it was already appreciated for its physical and intellectual traits, with this information it will surely be even more admired. Of course, this breed isn’t suitable for everyone, although it’s a fact that everyone who has the fortune of owning one wouldn’t change them for anything.