Group: Herding

Weight: 69-90 lbs

Height: male: 24-28, female: 24-27 inches



History

There is no real agreement concerning the origin of this Franco-Belgian breed. This breed may have been formed by crossing the Griffon and the Beauceron. The Bouvier des Flandres dog was originally a cattle herding dog, and they were also widely used as a rescue dog and message-carrier during World War I. As a result of his experience during the war and the nearly total destruction of Flandres; the breed was almost completely killed off. In 1923, after the war, the Bouvier was reconstructed by a few individuals. A breed club for these dogs were also established in Belgium. At present, the Bouvier serves as a watchdog, protector, family friend and as a tracking dog. This breed has also been used as a guide for the blind and in search and rescue operations.

Characteristics

Bouviers are best described as enthusiastic and well-tempered dogs. They are very playful, gentle and pleasant - and these dogs make excellent household companions. This breed is also great with children, but it is important that they should be socialized from an early age onwards with other animals in order to get along with them.

Temperament

Bouviers are very obedient dogs that have a pleasant nature. They look very intimidating, but they are actually very peaceful and calm. These dogs are keen, dependable, even tempered and brave. They are excellent guard and watchdogs, and are very trainable. Bouviers also learns commands relatively fast, but not as fast as the German shepherd for instance. They require stable training which remains consistent in nature. When they learn a command, they will remember it for the rest of their life. It is important to make the dog aware that you are and will remain the boss. Bouviers require experienced preventing dominance problems. They should be socialized well from an early age onwards to avoid over-protectiveness and shyness.

Care

Their shaggy coats require a lot of attention. It is important to brush their long coats regularly, and they should be bathed only when it is deemed necessary. Bouviers requires trimming about three times during the year. Excess hair should also be removed from inside the ears, and the hairs between the pads of their feet should also be trimmed. If these dogs are groomed well, they will shed very little hair in the home. Some people believe that Bouvier are good for allergy sufferers. For more detailed info, take a look at the Bouvier Des Flandres Grooming page.

Training

Consistent training is very important for this large breed of dogs. They can be very obstinate at times. They require firm training, and they are quick learners. The Bouvier Des Flandres makes an excellent guard dog, and they are generally very easy to train.

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