Surely you've heard of the dogs of Ca de Bo. The combination of a charming smile and a mountain of muscles creates a unique impression. Such dogs can be safely called heroes on four legs. Once upon a time, dogs took part in bullfighting. They are good guards, bodyguards, and even companions. Major mastiffs (another name for the breed) can be loyal friends, so the breed is deservedly popular. Let's talk in more detail about the dogs of this breed.
Origin history
Experts say that the history of the breed has more than two centuries. Ca de Bo is home to Malta. With the development of shipping in the Mediterranean, an exchange of cultural and other values between the West and the East began. Thanks to commercial relations, an exchange of animals began, including guard and hunting dogs. In those days, preference was given to strong and strong dogs with powerful teeth. Mastiffs were considered the best representatives. As soon as Mallorca came under the authority of the United Kingdom, English dog breeds began to appear on the island. Over time, they crossed with local dogs. It is believed that the ca de bo descended from the bulldogs and Alano, who then inhabited the peninsula. Major mastiffs began to be actively used as watchmen, guards and fighting dogs. But the most popular animals were for use during bullfights.
Mention of the breed found in the studbook of Spain from 1923. But official records of the ca de bo appeared only after the Barcelona exhibition of 1928-1929. In the twentieth century, the breed was going through hard times. There were very few Major mastiffs. Therefore, soon had to deal with the revival of the breed. For this, English bulldogs were used. The breed was officially recognized in 1964. Modern ka de bo are not fighting dogs. Their purpose is to serve faithfully to people.
Breed description
ca de bo are dogs that all people like at first sight. Dogs amaze with their charm. The animal has an impressive size, well-developed muscles, but at the same time have a charming smile. At every opportunity, dogs demonstrate their openness and friendliness. But this did not make representatives of the breed so popular. Experts note that the animals combine excellent watchdog characteristics, the ability to adequately assess the situation, balance. Ca-de-bo dogs can behave properly depending on the situation. They accurately determine who is friend and who is enemy.
The breed is known under several names: Major Mastiff, Perro Dogo Majorkin, Ca de Bo. The birthplace of the dogs is Mallorca. The name of the breed in translation means "bull dog", which is consistent with the appearance of the animals. Dogs are self-confident. But courage is out of the question. No wonder they took part in the Spanish bullfight. Ca de Bo dogs provided bullfighter protection. Therefore, they should be ready at any moment to come forward to defend the owner. Iron grip helped the dogs cope with the bull.
Representatives of the breed Ca-de-Bo perfectly cope with the role of security guards and bodyguards. Dogs have a great reaction. But at the same time, dogs can be wonderful pets. But at the same time nothing bad can be expected from dogs. They will never harm the household. Dogs are always friendly with all family members. They behave well not only with the owner, but also with the rest of the family, even if there are a lot of them. Dogs get along well with children.
Character traits
What is the character of ca de bo? Characteristics of the breed will be incomplete, if not to recall the cute disposition of dogs. They are very smart. Among all family members, dogs accurately determine the main thing. Animals are very loyal to the owner, but at the same time they treat all members of the family with the same tenderness and care. Dogs are very patient with guests in the house, friends of the family. If the apartment does not currently have a landlord, then a devoted friend will not let strangers into the house.
Major mastiffs usually do not behave aggressively, unless, of course, there is no reason. You will be able to raise a devoted friend if you start raising a puppy from an early age. Walking animals is an important element of education. Without daily walks it is impossible to raise a good dog. If you decide to purchase a representative of the Ca de Bo breed, be prepared for the fact that you will have to arrange trips out of town regularly. After all, the animal needs outdoor games. Communication with dogs is very simple and easy, they are incredibly smart, smart and do not create difficulties in the process of training. The beautiful character of the Ca de Bo is the main reason why breeders love these beauties so much.
Breed standard
Major mastiffs have a strong physique. Their massive figure is complemented by a large head with a wide muzzle. Due to the developed musculature and the total mass, the dogs seem very large. Although in reality they are not like that. By the size of the representatives of the breed should be attributed to dogs of medium size. Males reach a height of 55-58 centimeters. Females differ slightly in growth - their growth is 52-55 cm.
Representatives of different sexes have some differences. But overall the animals are very similar. Speaking about the description of ca-de-bo, it is necessary to recall that dogs can have several types of color: deer (beige or red), motley (brindle), black.
Puppy selection
How to choose a representative of ca de bo? Major mastiffs are dogs that are not suitable for any owner. Animals have excellent characteristics, but it is necessary to think a hundred times before getting such a pet. You need to evaluate your strengths and abilities, because you have to regularly care for the animal. Every day you have to spend a lot of time on care and walking. With a large pet, you need to be able to build the right relationship. The beautiful character of the Ca de Bo usually does not cause trouble for the owners. But still, at certain points, you will have to show firmness.
It is necessary to acquire a puppy in a specialized nursery. But take the dogs in the bird market is not worth it. It is very likely that you will be deceived. In a decent nursery you will be offered to meet the mother of the future pet. It is also necessary to evaluate the conditions of the puppy.
Before you start choosing an animal, go to specialized exhibitions. There you can appreciate all the advantages and disadvantages of the breed. A lot of interesting information can be obtained from specialized directories.
Friend Recommendations
If you plan to have a major mastiff (photo is given in the article), you must first decide what you will use it for. It is one thing if you want to see a friend, a domestic dog and a favorite of the whole family in the animal. It is completely different if the dog should become a good guard. Pay attention to the nature of the pet. He must be balanced. Also important is the puppy's health.
The most difficult thing is to choose an animal to participate in exhibitions. In this case, you will need the advice of an experienced expert. It is he who will help you choose from a small lumps of a worthy pet. If you want to get a future champion, you can’t do without the help of a good expert. Only he will help to choose a worthy Major mastiff.
How to find a pet-like pet without mistakes? Experienced breeders give tips to help you make your choice:
- If the puppy is already 30-40 days old, you can look into the mouth, where all the baby teeth should already be.
- There should be a lump on the head of the puppies. It is not only a feature of this breed, but also a source of information. From the bump, you can determine the growth of an adult dog. If the animal promises to be large, then the lump should have an impressive size.
- It is also necessary to pay attention to the correctness of the bite.
- No less important is the coat. It should be clean, without any marks. If the coat is even, then the puppy is absolutely healthy.
- It is very important to evaluate the tail. It should not have creases.
- The color of the pet meets the standard if the white color is not more than 30% of the entire surface of the body.
Dog Care
The breed is short-haired, so taking care of your pets is easy. It must be remembered that you will have to brush your coat daily with a rubber brush. This will help maintain the health and well-groomed appearance of the dog. According to reviews, Major Mastiffs do not need frequent water procedures. Frequent bathing can adversely affect the fat balance of the skin. If you understand that you can’t do without a water procedure, then you need to use professional products for wire-haired dogs.
The claws of the animal will also require care. They need to be cut regularly. It is also worth looking after your eyes and ears. They should be regularly inspected carefully. Ears are cleaned with cotton buds once every two weeks. If you notice any discharge or an unpleasant odor, you should immediately contact your veterinarian. Eye care is carried out using cotton swabs dipped in a special solution.
The owners should carefully monitor the condition of the teeth of their pets. If there are signs of tartar, do not avoid going to the vet. The problem can be prevented by introducing cartilage, chewing bones, and toys for brushing teeth into the diet. The jaws of an animal at an early age require the most attention, because you need to make sure that the bite is formed correctly.
Parenting
Representatives of the breed have a very developed intelligence. But at the same time, dogs are distinguished by natural intelligence. Animals do not create problems in the process of training training. If you want to quickly see the fruits of your labors, you need to start classes already in the first days of the appearance of the puppy in the house. Initially, dogs are taught the simplest commands: "place", "sit", "to me."
Adult dogs do not cause trouble to their owners if you notice changes in their behavior on time and react correctly to them. Puppies need to be prohibited from doing everything that you would not want to see in an adult pet. If you notice that the baby is trying to take a leadership position, you must immediately stop such tricks. Sometimes situations happen that cannot be resolved on their own. In this case, you need to seek help from a professional trainer. A well-bred dog will give you a lot of pleasant minutes in communication. Such pets will never disappoint you. And for children, he will become a best friend.
Diet
The key to the health of any dog is its proper nutrition. What type of feeding to choose for your pet, each owner decides individually. You can use dry food or prefer a natural diet. Both options are equally good, it all depends on your capabilities. First of all, you need to focus on the taste of the pet. The dog should like the food. But this does not mean that you need to give the dog everything he wants, or food from your table. Food should be prepared in accordance with all the rules, separately for the pet. If you don’t have the opportunity to cook, choose dry food.
Diseases
Experts note that the representatives of the breed are distinguished by excellent health and immunity. In order for the dog to remain in good shape, it is necessary to pay close attention to physical activity and proper nutrition. Prevention is very important. Dogs need vaccination and regular deworming. The breed is predisposed to some ailments: hepatopathy, myositis, dysplasia of the hip joints. If the animal has reduced immunity, then a high degree of development of demodicosis. In adulthood, oncology can develop in dogs. On average, animals live 12-13 years.
Nurseries
Ca-de-bo appeared in the vastness of our country in 1992. But representatives of the breed managed to break into the leaders recently. In 1997, the National Club of the breed of Ca de Bo was founded. In our country there are already official dog breeding kennels. Most of them are concentrated in Moscow.
Puppies cost
If you decide to have a major mastiff, then you will probably be interested in the question of how much a puppy costs. For a pet with documents you will have to pay 25-35 thousand rubles. But this is the minimum cost of the animal. Puppies from elite parents cost an average of 50 thousand rubles. But the kids from unplanned mating and mestizos are much cheaper - 10-15 thousand rubles.
Ca de Bo reviews
Characteristics of the breed are what influence the choice of breeders. Equally important are reviews of people who already have dogs. What do experienced breeders say about the breed? People say that dogs are kind and gentle. They treat children very well. If the child begins to cry, then the dog is the first to react and runs to help the baby. Shorthair breed is easy to care for. Dogs are not picky about food; they are happy to eat cereals with meat.
Breeders note that they have never encountered signs of aggression in pets. It is for this reason that people choose Major Mastiffs for maintenance in the family. Indeed, in such pets, breeders primarily see friends and companions.
Numerous positive qualities of dogs cannot be crossed out by just one drawback. Dogs need a steady hand of the owner who will be engaged in it. But this is typical for representatives of all breeds. An animal cannot be raised on its own.
Instead of an afterword
If you are not familiar with the Ca de Bo breed, you can be scared away by the impressive size of its representatives. Meanwhile, these animals are distinguished by a peaceful and friendly character. Behind a formidable appearance is usually a good-natured creature. But at the same time, dogs can show the best guard qualities at any moment. Representatives of the breed have the most excellent characteristics. And yet, when acquiring a puppy, it is necessary to treat his upbringing with all responsibility. Only proper care and regular physical activity will help to raise an affectionate and healthy friend.