Majorero Canario Breed description: Character & Co

About

All about the Majorero Canario aka. Bardino

What is the origin of Bardinos?

The professor of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tenerife assumes that the Bardino lived here long before humans discovered the fascinating island world off the coast of Africa. The first evidence of the existence of the ancient Spanish race is a report from the 1st century A.D. At that time, King Juba II relaxed a troop of explorers to Gran Canaria from Roman Mauritania (now Morocco). Upon their return, they reported seeing wild dogs wearing fur with tiger stripes. Legend has it that they took some puppies home for the king, who gave the name "Islands of the Canes" to the previously uninhabited area. The name was derived from the Roman word for dog "canis". Its other name, Majorero Canario, also indicates its origin. The indigenous people of Fuerteventura are called "Majorero". Legends from Tenerife tell of the courage and bravery of the breed: Here the Bardinos went to war with the original inhabitants Guanches against the conquistadors. According to legend, the animals remained loyal to their owners until death. A law passed in 1618 forbade bardinos to roam freely. In addition, the number of animals was limited to one per family. Probably the conquerors tried to exterminate the Majorero Canarios with this tactic. They did not succeed, however, as they were kept in hiding and exchanged among goatherds. Despite the adverse circumstances, the breed survived and is recognized by the Spanish dog federation RSCE. The international association FCI, however, does not list them.

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Alternate Name	Bardino
Origin	Spain
Life expectancy	12 - 15 years
Care requirements	low-maintenance

Activity level	average
FCI group	not recognised
AKC group	not recognised
KC group	not recognised

Characteristics

What are typical characteristics of Bardinos?

The Majorero Canario proves to be a loyal companion after a period of acclimatisation and bonds closely with you. Since he used to be used as a guardian of cattle, house and farm, his protective instinct is well developed. Thus he is perfectly suited as a watchdog. Consistent training is required in any case, as the Majorero Canario sometimes proves to be stubborn.

Character

balanced
protective
quietly
vigilant

Usage

Watchdog
Companion Dog
Herding Dog
Family Dog

Two Majorero Canario playing with a French Bulldog

Breeding

What are typical diseases of Bardinos?

Since the Bardino is an original breed and not a fashionable dog, genetic diseases are rare. As with all animals with floppy ears, you should regularly check the hearing organ. Special cleaning agents from the vet are available. Wipe the outer ear canals clean with a soft cloth and remove dirt. Pay particular attention to the dewclaw: as it does not touch the ground, it does not wear out by itself during walking and therefore needs to be shortened regularly. You are on the safe side if the vet takes over this task. If you cut off too much, it can lead to severe bleeding. Sometimes the anal glands of your four-legged friend get clogged: a remedy is high-quality and balanced food.

What should be considered when breeding a Bardino?

As there are only very few Majorero Canario breeders, you will probably have to wait longer for a Majorero Canario puppy. An alternative is to rescue a Bardino in need. These are mostly animals that have been rescued from bad housing conditions. No matter at what age you want to buy a Majorero Canario, it is important to convince yourself of the excellent health condition of the animal.

Majorero Canario breed description, brindle large dog with triangular ears, floppy ears, large dog that is not on the list, The Majorero Canario is not a list dog, Spanish dog breed

Breed characteristics

A typical breed characteristic of the Bardino is the double dewclaw. The tail is slightly shorter than in other large dogs and is usually carried erect. In the Canary Islands females are called Bardina, males Bardino. Males have a much broader head than females. The quadruped looks at you gently from hazel, almond or brown eyes.

Appearance and coat of the Bardino

The coat of the Majorero Canario is his trademark: his coat is dark and brindled and shimmers greenish in the sun. This has earned him the nickname "Verdino", as Verde means green in German. However, the basic colour is black, the coat is beige or grey tabby. The coat resists wind and weather: This was also necessary, because the Bardino used to live mostly outdoors. Although it is warmer on the Canary Islands than in this country, storms and thunderstorms still occur. If you want to buy a Bardino, you should know that he will shed more in spring and autumn. This is when the dense undercoat is renewed. Regular brushing pays off, so that the dead hairs do not settle everywhere in your home.