Mallorquin Mastiff
Breed Description

The Mallorquin Mastiff is known by a remarkable variety of names that reflect its rich cultural heritage and the languages of the Mediterranean region where it developed. The most commonly used name in its homeland is Ca de Bou, which translates directly from Catalan as "bull dog" or "dog of the bull," a reference to the breed's historical use in bull-baiting rather than any physical resemblance to the English Bulldog. In Spanish, the breed is officially registered as Perro de Presa Mallorquin, meaning "Mallorcan catch dog" or "Mallorcan grip dog," acknowledging both its geographic origin and its original function as a dog that would grip and hold livestock or opponents.

The term "Mallorquin" derives from Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands off the eastern coast of Spain where the breed developed over centuries. International breed enthusiasts have adopted several English translations of these names, including Majorcan Mastiff, Mallorca Mastiff, Majorca Bulldog, Mallorcan Bulldog, and Mallorquin Bulldog. Each variation emphasizes either the mastiff-type physical characteristics or the bulldog-like tenacity and grip strength that define the breed. Some registries also use Perro Dogo Mallorquin or simply Dogo Mallorquin, with "dogo" being a Spanish term for large, powerful dogs of the mastiff type.

The breed's name history reflects the complex linguistic heritage of the Balearic Islands, where both Catalan and Spanish have been spoken for centuries. While Catalan is the native language of the region and gives us the traditional name Ca de Bou, Spanish colonial influence brought the official designation Perro de Presa Mallorquin that appears in kennel club registrations. Understanding these various names is essential for breed enthusiasts, as historical documents, pedigree papers, and international breed registries may use any of these designations when referring to the same remarkable Spanish breed.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale officially recognizes this breed as the Majorca Mastiff in English translations, while maintaining Perro de Presa Mallorquin as the primary Spanish designation. German kennel organizations refer to the breed as Mallorca-Dogge, and in some international contexts, you may encounter the names Mallorquin Bulldog or Mallorcan Bulldog. These names all reference the breed's geographic origin on the island of Mallorca and its distinctive molossoid characteristics that place it firmly within the mastiff family of breeds.

Breed recognition has expanded significantly in recent decades as international interest in this rare Spanish breed has grown. The breed was first registered in the Spanish Stud Book in 1923, with the first official entry recorded in 1928. The first Ca de Bou specimens were exhibited at the Barcelona Dog Show in 1929, bringing wider attention to this distinctive island breed. Despite near extinction following World War II, dedicated preservation efforts have secured the breed's future, and it now enjoys recognition from several international kennel organizations that acknowledge its unique heritage and valuable guardian qualities.

The Mallorquin Mastiff has earned recognition from several prestigious kennel organizations that acknowledge its unique heritage as a Spanish guardian breed with deep historical roots on the island of Mallorca. The breed's journey toward international recognition began in its homeland, where the Real Sociedad Canina de España (Royal Canine Society of Spain) serves as the primary governing body and maintains detailed breed standards that emphasize both physical characteristics and the temperament traits essential to this working guardian breed.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale granted the breed definitive recognition in 1963, classifying it in Group 2 (Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid breeds, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs), Section 2.1 (Mastiff type). According to FCI standards, the breed should present as a strong, powerful, medium-sized dog of typical Molossian type with a somewhat elongated build. The standard emphasizes the notable sexual dimorphism in head size, with males possessing significantly larger skulls than females. The head must be large, broad, and almost square, with the circumference being greater in males than females, and the coat should be short and rough to the touch, typically appearing in brindle, fawn, or black coloration.

The FCI standard specifies precise measurements that define the ideal Mallorquin Mastiff. Males should measure 55-58 centimeters at the withers and weigh 35-38 kilograms, while females should measure 52-55 centimeters and weigh 30-34 kilograms. The standard places considerable emphasis on the breed's calm, courageous nature and loyalty to its owner, recognizing these temperament traits as essential breed characteristics alongside physical attributes. The powerful jaw structure, slightly undershot bite, and muscular build reflect the breed's historical working function.

The United Kennel Club recognized the Mallorquin Mastiff using the FCI standard, acknowledging the breed's established presence among Molosser enthusiasts. The UKC classification places the breed among guardian dogs, recognizing its primary function as a property and family protector. While the breed is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club, its increasing international popularity has brought attention to this rare Spanish breed in North America, where a small but dedicated community of breeders and enthusiasts continues to promote responsible breeding practices.

The breed standard was first drawn up in 1932, though formal FCI recognition came later. After nearly facing extinction following World War II, when the few remaining dogs were crossed with the Ca de Bestiar (Mallorcan Shepherd Dog), English Bulldog, and possibly the Alano Español to preserve the type, dedicated breeders worked to reconstruct the breed according to historical standards. The breed's inclusion in various kennel club registries has helped establish breeding guidelines and promote the health and welfare of the Mallorquin Mastiff worldwide.

Several specialized Molosser and mastiff breed organizations also maintain registries for the Mallorquin Mastiff, focusing on preserving the breed's unique characteristics and working abilities. European kennel clubs, including those in Germany, France, and Russia, recognize the breed through their FCI affiliations. Interestingly, the breed has found particular popularity in Russia and Poland, where there are reportedly more Ca de Bou specimens than in Spain itself. This international interest has helped ensure the breed's survival and continued development according to established standards.

The Mallorquin Mastiff presents as a powerful, medium-sized Molossian type dog with a distinctive combination of strength, agility, and endurance that reflects its heritage as a versatile working breed. The breed exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism, with males appearing notably more massive than females, particularly in head size and overall musculature. This size difference between sexes is one of the breed's most distinguishing characteristics, with the circumference of a male's head often exceeding the height at the withers.

The head is perhaps the breed's most impressive feature, being large, broad, and almost square in shape with a powerful jaw structure designed for gripping. The skull is massive, especially in males, with a well-defined frontal furrow and pronounced brow ridges that give the face its characteristic expression. The stop is strongly defined when viewed from the side, though it appears less pronounced from the front due to the prominent eyebrow arches. The muzzle is broad and conical, set at the inner corner of the eyes, with a length that maintains the proportion of approximately one to three relative to the skull length.

The jaw is one of the breed's defining features, being strong and powerful with a slightly undershot bite that should not exceed one centimeter. The incisors sit in a correct row with the canines well apart, creating the gripping power for which the breed was originally developed. The lips are distinctive, with the upper lip covering the lower to the middle part of the muzzle while remaining relatively taut, and the lower lip forms a fold in its middle portion so that the lips are not overly visible when the mouth is closed.

The eyes of the Mallorquin Mastiff are large, oval-shaped, and set slightly slanted, always appearing dark in color regardless of coat shade. These expressive eyes convey the breed's characteristic alertness and intelligent watchfulness. The ears are small, set high on the skull, and fold backward in the rose ear style traditional to many Molosser breeds. This ear carriage contributes to the breed's alert appearance while protecting the ear canal during work.

The body is strong and slightly elongated, with a broad, deep chest that reaches to the elbow level and supports the powerful front assembly. The topline is level and strong, flowing into a short, muscular loin and slightly tucked abdomen. The ribcage is moderately sprung, providing adequate lung capacity for sustained activity. The shoulders are well-muscled and properly angled, supporting straight, parallel forelegs with sturdy bone and short, upright pasterns.

The hindquarters are equally impressive, with well-muscled thighs and moderate angulation at the stifle and hock joints. The hocks are set low and perpendicular to the ground, providing powerful drive during movement. The tail is thick at the base, tapering to a point, and is carried with a slight curve during action without rising above the topline. The feet are large, round, and well-padded, suited for the rocky terrain of the breed's native Mallorca.

The coat is short, rough to the touch, and lies close to the skin, providing practical protection in the Mediterranean climate without requiring extensive grooming. Acceptable colors include brindle (with various shades permitted), fawn (with deeper shades preferred), and black. White markings may appear on the front feet, chest, and muzzle, though these should not exceed approximately thirty percent of the total coat coverage. The skin may show slight wrinkling over the jaw muscles but should not exhibit excessive facial folds typical of some other Molosser breeds.

The history of the Mallorquin Mastiff stretches back centuries to the island of Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands situated in the Mediterranean Sea off the eastern coast of Spain. The breed's origins are intertwined with the complex political and cultural history of this strategically important island, which has been controlled by various powers throughout recorded history, each leaving their mark on the local canine population.

The foundation of the Mallorquin Mastiff likely began during the period of Catalan influence over Mallorca, which extended from approximately 1270 to 1570 AD. During this era, mastiff-type dogs from the Iberian Peninsula were brought to the island for controlling cattle and providing general guardian services. These early ancestors of the breed were the renowned Dogos of the Iberian Peninsula, large, powerful dogs used throughout Spain for hunting large game and as fighting dogs against bulls and other animals. When King James I of Aragon conquered the Balearic Islands around 1230 AD, these formidable mastiffs accompanied his forces and established the breeding stock from which the Ca de Bou would eventually develop.

The breed's development took a significant turn in the seventeenth century when the British gained control of Minorca and other areas of the Balearics following the Treaty of Utrecht. British occupiers brought their own fighting and guard dogs with them, and these were crossed with the existing Iberian mastiffs to create a new type particularly suited to the island's climate and the working demands of the population. This crossbreeding, possibly involving English Bulldogs and other British fighting breeds, refined the Mallorquin Mastiff into a more compact, agile animal while maintaining its powerful gripping ability.

By the eighteenth century, the blood sports of bull-baiting and dog fighting had become well established on Mallorca, and the Ca de Bou earned its name through its prowess in these brutal entertainments. The Catalan name, meaning "bull dog," speaks directly to the breed's primary function during this period. The Mallorquin Mastiff was renowned throughout the region for its ferocity, courage, and unwillingness to release its grip regardless of injury or pain, traits that made it invaluable in the fighting pit but also ideal for legitimate work controlling dangerous livestock.

When bull-baiting was banned in Spain in 1883 and dog fighting was outlawed in 1940, the Mallorquin Mastiff faced an uncertain future. The primary purpose for which the breed had been developed no longer existed legally, and interest in maintaining breeding programs declined dramatically. However, the breed's versatility proved its salvation, as Mallorcans discovered the Ca de Bou's excellence as a guardian of property, livestock protector, and hunting assistant. Butchers particularly valued the breed for its ability to control cattle being brought to slaughter, maintaining the ancient function in a legitimate context.

The early twentieth century brought both documentation and crisis to the breed. The first written mention of the Ca de Bou appeared in 1907, suggesting the breed was well-established and recognized. By 1923, the breed was registered in the Spanish Stud Book, with the first official entry recorded in 1928. The following year, forty Ca de Bou specimens were exhibited at a dog show outside Barcelona, demonstrating the breed's popularity and consistency. A breed standard was established in 1932, formalizing the ideal type and characteristics.

World War II and its aftermath nearly destroyed the Mallorquin Mastiff. The famines of the 1920s and 1930s had already reduced the population significantly, and by the 1940s, purebred specimens had become extremely rare. The breed standard was officially written in 1946, but by the time the FCI granted definitive recognition in 1963, there were reportedly no pure specimens remaining. The popularity of newer imported breeds such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Rottweilers further diminished interest in preserving the native Mallorcan breed.

Breed reconstruction efforts began in earnest during the latter decades of the twentieth century. Dedicated Spanish breeders located dogs that retained the most Ca de Bou characteristics, though these animals were likely crosses with the Ca de Bestiar (Mallorcan Shepherd Dog), English Bulldogs, and possibly the Alano Español. Through careful selective breeding, they worked to recreate the historical type according to the established standard and historical descriptions. This reconstruction has been remarkably successful, and while some purists argue that the true Ca de Bou became extinct, the breed as it exists today maintains the essential characteristics of the historical type.

The breed's international spread began in the 1990s, with particular success in Russia and Poland, where the Ca de Bou found enthusiastic supporters. By some estimates, more Ca de Bou now live in Moscow than in Spain, demonstrating the breed's appeal beyond its homeland. The first Ca de Bou arrived in the United Kingdom from France in 2001, and small but dedicated breeding communities have developed in various European countries and North America. Today, approximately 250 specimens exist in Spain, with the breed's future secured by its growing international following and the efforts of dedicated breed clubs worldwide.

The Mallorquin Mastiff possesses a temperament that perfectly embodies the concept of the calm, confident guardian, combining an unshakeable loyalty to family with a natural suspicion of strangers that makes the breed an exceptional protector. Those who know the breed well describe it as quiet by nature, projecting an air of self-assured dignity that belies the explosive power and courage that can emerge when the situation demands. This apparent contradiction between peaceful domesticity and fierce protection capability defines the essential character of the Ca de Bou.

In the home environment, the Mallorquin Mastiff demonstrates remarkable composure and a genuine enjoyment of family life. The breed is known for forming profound bonds with its immediate family members, showing devoted affection to those within its inner circle while maintaining appropriate wariness toward unfamiliar people. Unlike some guardian breeds that remain perpetually tense and reactive, the well-socialized Mallorquin Mastiff is content to relax peacefully in the home, serenely surveying its environment with an alert but calm demeanor. This psychological stability and balance is one of the breed's most valued characteristics.

Despite its calm exterior, the Mallorquin Mastiff should never be mistaken for an inattentive or lazy guardian. The breed possesses an almost supernatural awareness of its surroundings, constantly monitoring for any potential threat while appearing to rest peacefully. When a genuine threat is perceived, the transformation is immediate and impressive, with the dog moving from apparent relaxation to defensive action within seconds. This capacity for sudden, decisive response combined with the physical power to back it up makes the Mallorquin Mastiff an exceptional natural guardian.

The breed's relationship with children is generally excellent when the dog has been properly raised and socialized. The Mallorquin Mastiff is known for demonstrating patience and gentleness with the children in its family, often taking on a protective role that includes tolerating the sometimes rough handling that comes with young children. However, the breed's size and strength require adult supervision during interactions with small children, and the dog should never be placed in a position where it feels the need to discipline children through its own methods.

With strangers, the Mallorquin Mastiff maintains a reserved and watchful demeanor that reflects its guardian heritage. The breed does not typically display overt aggression toward unfamiliar people but rather maintains a dignified distance while observing and assessing. When visitors are welcomed by the family, the well-socialized Mallorquin Mastiff will generally accept their presence while remaining watchful. However, uninvited intrusions provoke an entirely different response, with the dog's protective instincts engaging fully and forcefully.

The breed's interaction with other dogs can be challenging, particularly with same-sex animals. The Mallorquin Mastiff's history as a fighting breed has left a legacy of potential dog aggression that requires careful management. Males especially may display dominance behavior toward other male dogs, and without proper socialization and training, these encounters can escalate to confrontation. Many successful Mallorquin Mastiff owners keep their dogs as single pets or pair them carefully with opposite-sex companions, understanding the breed's natural tendencies.

Intelligence is a hallmark of the breed, though it manifests differently than in breeds developed for obedience or working in close partnership with handlers. The Mallorquin Mastiff thinks independently, assessing situations and making decisions based on its own judgment rather than looking to humans for constant guidance. This independence served the breed well in its historical role, where dogs often worked alone to guard property or control livestock without human direction. In modern pet homes, this independent thinking requires an owner who understands and respects the breed's nature while maintaining clear leadership.

The courage of the Mallorquin Mastiff is legendary, stemming from centuries of selection for dogs that would not back down regardless of the odds against them. Whether facing a charging bull in the fighting pit of old or confronting a modern intruder, the breed demonstrates complete fearlessness in the defense of its home and family. This courage is not reckless aggression but rather a calm certainty of purpose that allows the dog to remain effective under pressure while less stable temperaments would panic or flee.

The Mallorquin Mastiff adapts well to family life when placed with owners who understand and appreciate the breed's unique requirements and natural guardian instincts. This is fundamentally a breed that needs to feel integrated into family activities and included in daily household life rather than relegated to kennel existence or isolated in a backyard. The deep bonds the breed forms with family members require regular interaction and inclusion to develop properly, and dogs denied this social contact may develop behavioral problems or fail to reach their potential as companions.

Ideal living situations for the Mallorquin Mastiff include homes with securely fenced yards that allow the dog to patrol and monitor its territory. The breed's guardian instincts are deeply ingrained, and providing an appropriate outlet for these drives helps create a more settled, satisfied dog. A solid fence at least six feet high is recommended, as the breed is capable of overcoming lower barriers when motivated, and the fence should be constructed to prevent digging escapes as well. Urban apartment living is generally not suitable for this breed unless the owner can provide exceptional exercise, socialization, and outdoor access.

The Mallorquin Mastiff's territorial nature means visitors and delivery personnel should be introduced carefully to prevent misunderstandings. The breed naturally views strangers approaching the home with suspicion, and without proper management, this protective instinct can create difficult situations. Many owners post warning signs and take precautions to ensure visitors do not approach the property without the owner being present to introduce them to the dog. With proper socialization and owner management, most Mallorquin Mastiffs learn to distinguish between welcomed guests and genuine threats.

Climate considerations are important for this Mediterranean breed that developed in the warm, dry conditions of Mallorca. The Mallorquin Mastiff tolerates heat better than many Molosser breeds thanks to its short coat and relatively athletic build, but it still requires shade and fresh water during hot weather. Conversely, the breed's single coat provides limited insulation against cold, and owners in northern climates should provide adequate shelter and limit exposure during extreme winter weather. Indoor housing with access to outdoor exercise areas represents the ideal arrangement for most families.

Exercise requirements for the Mallorquin Mastiff are moderate compared to high-energy working breeds but more substantial than many other mastiff types. Daily walks of at least thirty to forty-five minutes help maintain physical condition and provide mental stimulation through exposure to new environments and scents. The breed also benefits from secure areas where it can move freely and explore, satisfying its natural curiosity and need to monitor territory. However, exercise should be avoided during the hottest parts of the day in warm climates to prevent overheating.

The breed's presence in multi-pet households requires careful consideration and management. While some Mallorquin Mastiffs coexist peacefully with other dogs, especially if raised together from puppyhood, the breed's potential for dog aggression means introductions must be handled carefully and ongoing supervision may be necessary. Cats and other small animals may trigger the breed's prey drive, particularly if they run, though dogs raised with cats from puppyhood often learn to accept them as family members. New pet additions to households with adult Mallorquin Mastiffs should be undertaken cautiously.

Financially, prospective owners should prepare for the costs associated with owning a large, powerful breed. Quality nutrition for a dog of this size represents a significant ongoing expense, and veterinary care including preventive measures and potential treatment for breed-specific health issues should be budgeted. Insurance requirements may be higher for Molosser breeds in some jurisdictions, and some homeowner's insurance policies may have restrictions related to guardian breeds. Understanding these practical considerations helps ensure a sustainable, long-term relationship with the breed.

Training the Mallorquin Mastiff presents unique challenges and rewards that reflect the breed's independent nature and strong guardian instincts. This is not a breed that responds to harsh training methods or attempts at physical dominance, as such approaches typically provoke stubborn resistance or, worse, defensive aggression from a dog fully capable of defending itself. Instead, successful training requires a confident handler who can establish leadership through consistency, fairness, and clear communication while respecting the dog's intelligence and natural capabilities.

Early socialization stands as the single most important element of raising a well-adjusted Mallorquin Mastiff. The breed's natural suspicion of strangers and potential for dog aggression must be addressed through extensive positive exposure during the critical socialization period between eight and sixteen weeks of age. Puppies should meet a wide variety of people, including men, women, children, and individuals of different appearances, in positive contexts that build confidence rather than fear. Exposure to other dogs in controlled environments helps develop appropriate canine social skills, though supervision remains essential.

Basic obedience training should begin early and continue consistently throughout the dog's life. The Mallorquin Mastiff's intelligence makes it fully capable of learning commands, but the breed's independent thinking means it may choose not to comply if it doesn't see the point or if the handler has not established proper leadership. Short, engaging training sessions using positive reinforcement yield the best results, with rewards including treats, praise, and play depending on what motivates the individual dog. Repetitive drilling bores this intelligent breed and leads to disengagement.

Leash manners deserve special attention given the Mallorquin Mastiff's size and strength. A dog weighing eighty pounds or more can easily pull an unprepared handler off balance, and the breed's protective instincts may provoke sudden reactive movements toward perceived threats. Training for calm, controlled walking on a leash should begin in puppyhood before the dog reaches its adult size and strength. Many owners find head halters or front-clip harnesses helpful tools for maintaining control during the learning process, though the ultimate goal remains a dog that walks politely without mechanical aids.

Recall training presents particular challenges with a breed that may decide investigating something interesting takes priority over returning when called. Consistent practice in increasingly distracting environments builds reliability, though many experienced Mallorquin Mastiff owners acknowledge that off-leash freedom in unfenced areas is never completely safe with this independent breed. The risk of the dog deciding to confront another dog or failing to respond when a threat is perceived makes secure containment essential for outdoor time.

Exercise requirements balance the breed's moderate energy level with its need for mental stimulation and territorial satisfaction. Daily walks provide physical exercise and mental enrichment through exposure to new sights and smells. The breed particularly enjoys having a secure area to patrol, satisfying its guardian instincts through monitoring territory. Structured activities such as obedience work, tracking, or weight pulling provide additional outlets for the breed's physical capabilities and desire to work, though high-impact activities should be limited during growth periods to protect developing joints.

The breed's guardian instincts require careful channeling rather than encouragement. The Mallorquin Mastiff naturally protects home and family without any training, and attempting to enhance these instincts through protection training typically creates problems rather than improving security. Dogs trained to bite on command may become unpredictably aggressive, and the liability issues associated with such training are substantial. The breed's natural abilities, properly socialized and channeled, provide more than adequate home security without the risks associated with formal protection work.

Maturity comes slowly to the Mallorquin Mastiff, with dogs continuing to develop mentally and physically until three years of age or beyond. Training and socialization must continue throughout this extended adolescence, as dogs that seem well-trained as puppies may test boundaries significantly as they mature. Patience and consistency during this period ensure the development of a stable, reliable adult, while inconsistent handling can produce a dog that views itself as the household leader with all the problems that entails.

The Mallorquin Mastiff generally enjoys robust health befitting its heritage as a working breed developed for function rather than appearance, with a typical lifespan of ten to twelve years when properly cared for. As with all purebred dogs, certain health conditions occur with greater frequency in this breed than in the general canine population, and responsible ownership includes awareness of these potential issues along with appropriate preventive measures and veterinary monitoring throughout the dog's life.

Health screening of breeding stock for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye conditions, and cardiac function helps reduce the incidence of inherited conditions in the breed population and should be standard practice for any responsible breeding program. With appropriate preventive care, regular veterinary monitoring, and attention to breed-specific health considerations, the Mallorquin Mastiff can enjoy a full life as a devoted family guardian and companion.

The Mallorquin Mastiff's short, rough coat makes this breed relatively easy to maintain compared to longer-coated breeds, requiring minimal grooming effort while still benefiting from regular attention that keeps the coat and skin healthy. The practical coat that developed for the Mediterranean climate of Mallorca provides adequate protection without the extensive maintenance demands of breeds with more elaborate coats, making the Mallorquin Mastiff an excellent choice for owners who prefer straightforward grooming routines.

Weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt removes loose hair, distributes natural skin oils throughout the coat, and provides an opportunity to check for any skin abnormalities or parasites. The brushing session also serves as bonding time between owner and dog while accustoming the animal to being handled thoroughly. During seasonal shedding periods in spring and fall, more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage increased hair loss, though shedding remains moderate compared to double-coated breeds.

Bathing requirements are minimal for the Mallorquin Mastiff, with most dogs needing full baths only every few months unless they become particularly dirty. Over-bathing can strip natural oils from the coat and skin, leading to dryness and irritation. When bathing is necessary, a mild dog shampoo applied thoroughly and rinsed completely prevents residue buildup that could cause skin problems. The wrinkles around the face and any facial folds should be dried carefully after bathing to prevent moisture-related skin infections.

Facial fold care deserves specific attention even between baths. While the Mallorquin Mastiff has fewer facial wrinkles than some Molosser breeds, any folds present should be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth and dried thoroughly to prevent bacterial or yeast growth. Signs of irritation, redness, or unpleasant odor indicate developing problems that require more frequent cleaning and possibly veterinary attention. Keeping facial folds clean and dry prevents most skin issues before they become serious.

Ear care involves weekly inspection and cleaning as needed with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution. The rose ear carriage of the Mallorquin Mastiff allows reasonable air circulation to the ear canal but does not provide the same protection as longer pendant ears. Signs of ear infection include redness, swelling, unusual odor, excessive wax production, or the dog shaking its head or scratching at its ears. Regular cleaning helps prevent infections, but established infections require veterinary treatment.

Dental care represents an often-neglected aspect of Mallorquin Mastiff maintenance that significantly impacts long-term health. Daily tooth brushing with an enzymatic canine toothpaste prevents tartar buildup and the periodontal disease that affects many dogs as they age. The breed's powerful jaws make dental chews an effective supplement to brushing, providing mechanical cleaning action while satisfying the dog's need to chew. Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia may be necessary periodically despite good home care.

Nail maintenance requires regular attention, with trimming needed every two to four weeks depending on the dog's activity level and the surfaces it walks on. Dogs that walk regularly on concrete may wear their nails down naturally, while those on softer surfaces require more frequent trimming. The powerful build of the Mallorquin Mastiff makes overgrown nails particularly problematic, as they can affect gait and lead to joint stress over time. Many owners find grinding tools easier to use than traditional clippers for this strong breed.

Eye care involves daily inspection for any discharge, redness, or irritation. The breed's large, expressive eyes should appear clear and bright, with any unusual tearing or discharge potentially indicating allergies, infection, or other issues requiring veterinary attention. Gentle cleaning of any normal discharge with a damp cloth keeps the eye area clean and allows early detection of developing problems.