The Ca de Bou or Perro de Presa Mallorquin is a Spanish breed of catch dog from Majorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands.

History

The Ca de Bou was historically kept on the island of Majorca for the blood sports of bull-baiting and dog fighting. The breed may have developed during the period of Catalan influence over Majorca between 1270 and 1570 AD, depriving from mastiff-type dogs used on the island for controlling cattle. By the time of the British occupation of Majorca in the 18th century, both bull-baiting and dog fighting were well established on the island, and the Ca de Bou were favoured by the locals for these blood sports, being renowned for their ferocity and bravery. With the outlawing of bull-baiting and dog fighting on Majorca in the 20th century, the Ca de Bou lost favour and their numbers dwindled to the brink of extinction. The breed was saved by enthusiasts from mainland Spain who began exhibiting it; eventually it was recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España. It is known as the Perro de Presa Mallorquin in Spanish, in English as the Majorcan Bulldog or occasionally the Majorcan Mastiff; Ca de Bou is the Catalan language name. The first breed standard was drawn up in 1932. The breed was definitively accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1963.

Description

The Ca de Bou is a very muscular dog of medium size. It typically stands between 52 and 58 cm. The breed standard states dogs should stand between 55 and 58 cm and bitches between 52 and 55 cm; dogs weigh between 35 and 38 kg, bitches between 30 and 34 kg. The short and rough coat is typically brindle, fawn or black in colour. The head is large, with a broad and powerful jaw well suited to gripping a bull or another dog in the fighting pit. Life expectancy is some 10 to 12 years.

Character

Selective breeding for the show ring has softened the Ca de Bou's temperament, and they are now biddable and affectionate, although they retain the tenacity and alertness of their forebears.