Overview
The Majorero, also called the Bardino, is a herding and guardian dog from the island of Fuerteventura. It is one of five dog breeds recognised in the Canary Islands and is valued as a farm worker that watches over livestock and property.
The breed is rare, with only a few hundred dogs, and is looked after by a dedicated breed society. It suits an owner with space and a real job for a capable, watchful dog.
History
The Majorero was never recorded in old documents, and its past is mostly known through island farm life. Efforts to preserve the breed began in the 1970s, and a single-breed show held in Gran Tarajal in 1979 drew breeders and enthusiasts from Spain and beyond.
The Spanish kennel club recognised the breed in 1994, and the national government gave it official status by royal decree in 2001. A breed society continues the work begun by an earlier association founded in 1989.
Appearance
The Majorero is a medium to large, well-built dog. Dogs stand about 56 to 63 cm at the withers and bitches 53 to 61 cm, with weights of roughly 30 to 45 kg for males and 25 to 35 kg for females.
It has a strong, athletic frame suited to rough island terrain and a coat that is usually brindle in various shades.
Temperament
The Majorero is a watchful guardian that bonds closely with its family and farm. It is typically reserved with strangers, confident and steady, and happy to work independently when needed.
With good early socialisation it can be a calm and devoted companion, but it needs firm, fair handling and a sense of purpose.
Care and exercise
This is an active working dog that does best with space, daily exercise and tasks to do. A secure garden or rural home suits it better than a small flat.
Its short coat is easy to care for with weekly brushing. Early socialisation and consistent training are important for a dog with strong guarding instincts.
Health
The Majorero is generally regarded as a hardy, robust breed with no widely documented breed-specific health problems. As with other larger dogs, routine vet care and sensible weight management are wise.
