Breed Standard
Head: Massive. Broad, square skull. Broad, flat forehead. Deep stop. Broad muzzle. Very strong, bulging jaw muscles.
Ears: Short and thin. Set on high. Rose ears folded back exposing the burr.
Eyes: Large, bulging slightly and slightly out of round. Very dark color.
Body: Massive. Long, very powerful neck. Deep, cylindrical chest. Short loin and flanks. Belly drawn up. Croup slightly higher than the withers.
Tail: Strong at the base and tapering to a point reaching the hocks.
Hair: Short, harsh, smooth, lying close to the skin.
Coat: Fawn, brindle, dark striped with white markings.
Size: 56 to 58 cm. (22-23 in).
Weight: Approx. 40 kg. (88 lb).
History
Originating on the island of Majorca, the Mallorquin Bulldog was developed for bull-baiting and dog-fighting, like the English Bulldog. When this practice came to an end, the very existence of the Mallorquin Bulldog came into question. The breed was saved by Spanish breeders, but is still very rare.
In the nineties, other nations took interest in the breed. In Poland and Russia they found a lot of success. There were rumours of more than 2,000 Mallorquin Bulldogs in Moscow. There are only around 250 in Spain. The race is well-appreciated for its function in Puerto Rico, where the Champion Chimo was sent to and other famous Spanish Mallorquin Bulldogs. Other nations, including France, Holland, Denmark, Finland and Sweden, also have breeders but not many, and the breed is pretty well unknown. In the 21st century, the Mallorquin Bulldog's future looks good. There is a bigger interest in the breed, with other names such as Mallorquin Mastiff, and thanks to the Internet, a closer link between Mallorquin Bulldog owners, breeders and passionate people, who love this breed. The increased interest carries with it potential pitfalls, however, as with the rapid development of other breeds when breeders try to match increased demand.
