Height: 24 1/2 to 27 1/2 inches (male); 23 1/2 to 26 1/2 inches (female). Size:
Large.
Weight: 90 to 110 pounds (male); 75 to 95 (female). Availability: May take some
effort to find.
History:
The Bouvier des Flandres, originally a cattle herding dog, was extensively used
as a rescue dog and message-carrier during World War I. As a result of his exposure
during the warfare and the nearly total destruction of Flanders, the breed was
almost completely killed off. After the war, the Bouvier was "reconstructed"
from a few individuals, and a breed club was established in Belgium. Bouvier
des Flandres means "cowherd from Flanders". Currently the Bouvier
serves as a watchdog, guardian, family companion and as a tracking dog. This
breed has also been used as a guide for the blind.
Description:
The Bouvier is a powerful, impressive dog with a massive and heavily coated
head. The thick beard and shaggy eyebrows give the dog a very distinctive appearance.
The broad, strong muzzle is slightly tapered to a large, black nose with open
nostrils. The oval, dark brown eyes have a bold, alert expression. The nose
is black. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. Body length from point of
shoulder to the tip of the rump should be approximately equal to the height
of the dog from the withers to the ground, giving the dog a square profile.
The chest is broad and deep, extending down to the elbow. The dog has a double
coat. The rough, shaggy-looking outer coat is harsh and dry to the touch, lined
with a soft, dense undercoat. The coat protects the dog in all types of inclement
weather. The coat colors are primarily black or black-brindle and gray or gray-brindle.
Fawn is allowable. A white star is permitted on the chest. The tail is customarily
docked and the ears may be cropped to a point, though some breeders now leave
them natural.
Notes:
The shaggy coat requires a lot of attention. Can be nippy in an attempt to herd
people. Very hardy, but prone to hip dysplasia. Purchase only from OFA stock.
The Bouvier is slow-maturing in both body and mind. Full maturity is generally
not reached until the dog is 2-3 years old. Belgian lines tends to be somewhat
smaller and lighter than Dutch bloodlines.
Personality:
A brave guard with a pleasant nature. Looks intimidating, but is actually calm
and gentle. Steady and fearless. Should be socialized well at an early age to
avoid over- protectiveness and shyness. A good family dog, the Bouvier likes
children. Loyal, enthusiastic and responsible. Needs an experienced owner to
prevent dominance problems. Obedience train early. Behavior with other animals
depends on individual temperament and character. Be careful with non-canine
pets. Dominant individuals can be dog-aggressive.
Behaviour:
Children: Excellent with children.
Friendliness: Reserved with strangers.
Trainability: Easy to train.
Independence: Fairly independent.
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: Good with other pets if raised with them from puppyhood.
Combativeness: Can be a bit dog-aggressive.
Noise: Not a barker.
Grooming and Physical Needs:
Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: Skilled trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Medium coat.
Shedding: Very light.
Docking: The ears are customarily cropped, and the tail is customarily docked.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Relatively inactive indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
Talents:
tracking, herding, watchdog, guarding, police work, military work, search &
rescue, carting, agility, competitive obedience, and Schutzhund.
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