The Bardino Majorero is a medium-to-large sized dog with a rustic, robust build, characterized by its distinctive brindle coat and powerful physique.

Medium to large

Males

25-45 kg (55-99 lbs)

Short, dense, and slightly rough to the touch

Predominantly brindle, ranging from dark to light shades, often with white markings on the chest, paws, and tip of the tail

Strong and proportionate to the body, with a broad skull and a well-defined stop

Medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark in color

Medium-sized, triangular, and held erect or slightly drooping

Thick at the base, tapering to a point, and reaching at least to the hock

The Bardino Majorero is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and strong protective instincts, making it a devoted companion and a vigilant guardian.

Forms strong bonds with its family and is deeply devoted to its owners.

Naturally inclined to guard its territory and loved ones, making it an excellent watchdog.

Highly intelligent and capable of learning complex tasks, though sometimes independent.

Bold and fearless, especially when protecting its family or territory.

Highly observant and aware of its surroundings.

Can be wary of strangers, requiring proper socialization from a young age.

Possesses high energy levels and needs regular mental and physical stimulation.

The Bardino Majorero is best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide consistent training, ample exercise, and a strong leadership role.

Healthy and hardy breed.

Prone to certain health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia.

The ideal owner for a Bardino Majorero is an active individual or family with experience handling working breeds, who can provide a structured environment, consistent training, and plenty of opportunities for both physical and mental exercise. They thrive in a home where they have a job to do and are considered a valued member of the family.

The Bardino Majorero is relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, but requires a balanced diet and a suitable living environment that accommodates its active nature.

Minimal grooming needed; brush their short coat weekly to remove loose hair and dirt.

Bathe only when necessary, typically every few months, to avoid stripping their coat of natural oils.

Trim nails regularly, usually every 2-3 weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections, especially if they spend time outdoors.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.

Best suited to homes with ample space, preferably with a securely fenced yard. They can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient daily exercise.

Training a Bardino Majorero requires a firm, consistent approach due to its intelligence and independent nature. They need substantial exercise to satisfy their working-dog heritage.

Bardino Majoreros are intelligent but can be independent thinkers, requiring a confident and experienced owner. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Consistency and patience are key, as they can be stubborn at times. Focus on establishing yourself as the leader from a young age.

This breed has high energy levels and requires significant daily exercise. Long walks, jogging, hiking, and interactive play sessions are essential. They also benefit from mentally stimulating activities like agility training, herding trials, or puzzle toys. A lack of adequate exercise can lead to behavioral problems, such as excessive barking or destructive chewing.

Expose your Bardino Majorero puppy to various people, dogs, and environments to ensure a well-adjusted adult.

Maintain a consistent training routine to reinforce commands and expectations.

Utilize rewards-based training methods, avoiding harsh punishments.

Provide puzzle toys and engaging activities to keep their intelligent minds occupied.

Ensure your yard is securely fenced, as their protective instincts may lead them to roam.

Practice leash manners from a young age, as they can be strong-willed.

The Bardino Majorero is generally a healthy and robust breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

Similar to hip dysplasia, this affects the elbow joint and can cause lameness and pain.

A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, trapping gas and cutting off blood supply. Common in deep-chested breeds.

Can be prone to skin allergies, leading to itching, redness, and skin infections.

The Bardino Majorero's history is deeply rooted in the pastoral traditions of Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands. The breed's name, "Bardino," refers to its brindle coat, while "Majorero" is a demonym for the people of Fuerteventura. For centuries, these dogs were indispensable to farmers, serving as both herders and guardians of livestock, particularly goats and sheep. Their development was largely shaped by natural selection and the specific needs of the island's environment, resulting in a hardy and adaptable breed. While there's no definitive date of origin, their lineage is thought to be ancient, potentially linked to pre-Hispanic herding dogs. The breed is officially recognized by the Real Sociedad Canina de España (RSCE), but it remains relatively unknown internationally. There are ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the breed, emphasizing its cultural significance and unique characteristics.

Yes, with proper socialization and training, they can be excellent family dogs, especially with older children. They are loyal and protective of their family.

They need a significant amount of exercise daily, including long walks, runs, and interactive play. At least 1-2 hours of vigorous activity is recommended.

They are intelligent but can be independent, so training requires consistency and patience. Positive reinforcement methods work best.

With early socialization, they can get along with other dogs. However, they can be dominant, so supervision is recommended.

The average lifespan is 11-13 years.

It is recognized by the Real Sociedad Canina de España (RSCE), but not widely recognized by other major kennel clubs like the AKC or UKC.

They have a short, dense coat and shed moderately. Regular brushing can help manage shedding.

Yes, they have a strong herding and guarding instinct and were traditionally used to protect livestock.

They can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation, but a house with a yard is ideal.

They are relatively rare outside of the Canary Islands. Contact breed-specific rescues or breeders in Spain, particularly in the Canary Islands.