Ca de Bou
The Ca de Bou (meaning "bull dog" in Catalan) is the traditional molosser of the Balearic island of Mallorca — a powerful, calm guardian and catch dog developed for bull-baiting (hence the name) and estate guarding during the period of British occupation of Mallorca in the early 18th century.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
Spain
Lifespan
10–12 years
Weight
30–38 kg (66–84 lbs)
Height
52–58 cm (20–23 in)
Exercise
30 to 45 min/day
Diet
Omnivore — high-quality large breed food.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Ca de Bou (meaning "bull dog" in Catalan) is the traditional molosser of the Balearic island of Mallorca — a powerful, calm guardian and catch dog developed for bull-baiting (hence the name) and estate guarding during the period of British occupation of Mallorca in the early 18th century. English sailors and merchants brought their bull-baiting dogs, which crossed with local Mallorcan dogs to produce the Ca de Bou. It is a rare breed outside Spain.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
A compact, powerful, heavy-boned dog with a broad, massive head. The muzzle is broad and slightly shorter than average for the head size but not as extreme as the English Bulldog. Short, coarse, dense coat.
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Moderate
Brushing
1x-Weekly
Bathing
Every-6-8-Weeks
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Calm, brave, and reserved — the Ca de Bou is a serious guardian breed. Deeply loyal to family. Not suitable for inexperienced owners or families with other dogs.
Personality Scores
Adaptability
3/5Attention Need
3/5Friendliness
3/5Playfulness
3/5Protectiveness
5/5Living Profile
Ideal Space
House-Large-Garden
Daily Exercise
30 to 45 min/day
Ideal Weather
10°C to 35°C
Cognitive Benchmarks
Adaptability
30%
Attention
30%
Playfulness
30%
Communication Style
Stress Signals
guarding, territorial aggression, barking, stiffening
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •Experienced owners. 1–1.5 hours exercise daily. Early socialisation critical. Strong, secure fencing.
Nutrition Notes
Mallorcan mastiff — Mediterranean origin suits warm climate. Bloat awareness. Joint supplements. Generally robust.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Senior Care
Hip dysplasia. Bloat. Few other documented issues. Mallorcan Bulldog from British occupation of Mallorca. FCI recognized. Good heat tolerance (Mediterranean origin). 10-12 years.
Wellbeing Activities
Nutrition & Sustenance
Daily Calories (Adult)
1500 kcal
Daily Calories (Young)
1100 kcal
Recommended Foods
Foods to Avoid
Health Overview
Hip dysplasia. Elbow dysplasia. Generally a hardy working breed. Rare outside Spain so limited health data available.
Common Conditions
Price Estimates
Pricing Guide
Average estimates as of 2025
Good heat tolerance. Mediterranean origin. India: rare but climate-appropriate.
Purchase Price
$1,500 to $3,500
Adoption Fee
$100 to $500
Data from 2025
Fun Facts
The Ca de Bou takes its name from the Catalan for "bull dog" — its historical use in bull-baiting on Mallorca, introduced during the British occupation of the island between 1708 and 1802, shaped the breed's development.
