Overview
The Ca Mè Mallorquí is a medium-sized pointing gundog native to Mallorca, used by island hunters for partridge, quail and rabbit. It resembles other Spanish and French pointers, with a short coat in brown or liver and white, dropped ears and a square outline. It has official recognition only in Spain and is very rarely seen beyond the island.
With so little written about the breed, a walker should rely on the type. It is a pointer: a scent-driven, cooperative gundog that works with its handler, enjoys open ground and settles well when exercised. Ask the owner to fill in the dog's individual quirks, because that is where the real information lies.
Exercise and walking needs
Around ninety minutes a day with time off lead on open ground suits an adult pointer of this size. They are steady workers rather than sprinters and like to move with purpose.
A retrieve or a scent search adds the mental side. A dog that has been given something to find comes home more settled than one that has only walked.
On the walk
- Recall: Usually good. Pointers bred to work close to a hunter on foot check in naturally. Ground birds and rabbits can still pull the dog off.
- Pointing: Expect the dog to freeze when it catches scent. Give it a second, then move it on gently rather than hauling.
- Pulling: Light. A harness is comfortable and protects the short-coated neck.
- Other dogs: Friendly and easy. Suits group walks with other active, well-mannered dogs.
Tips for professional walkers
- Take the dog to open fields and rough grass; that is where a pointer earns its keep.
- End with a couple of retrieves so the dog comes back to you before the lead goes on.
- Dry the dog after rain; a thin coat bred for Mediterranean heat gives little protection in winter.
- Look between the toes and under the ears for seeds in summer.
What to ask the owner
- Where did the dog come from, and has it been worked as a gundog?
- Which commands or whistle cues does it know?
- How does it cope with cold, wet weather, and does it wear a coat?