Bouvier des Flandres

Appearance:

Body:Square with a broad chest, a well-muscled, powerful back, and well-sprung ribs

Coat: Harsh, weather-resistant double coat capable of protecting him from extreme weather conditions

Color: Fawn to black, gray and brindle, or salt and pepper

Ears: Small, set high, somewhat oval shaped, rough coated, and either cropped or natural

Eyes: Dark brown, oval shaped with black rims and with abundant brows

Feet: Short, compact, and round with black nails, close, arched toes, and thick, hard pads

Head: Well-developed with a shallow stop, broad muzzle, large black nose, beard, and moustache

Legs: Forelegs are well-boned, straight, and muscular. Hind legs are powerful and muscular with broad hocks and wide, muscular thighs

Neck: Strong, muscular and beautifully arched

Size:
Weight: 60 - 88 pounds (27 - 40kg)
Height: 23 - 27 inches (58 - 69cm)

Tail: Short, docked and carried high

Behavior

Recommended for experienced handlers
Adaptable to city and country living
Not recommended around cats unless raised with them

The Bouvier des Flandres is a powerful, strong-willed, and highly intelligent dog with a laid-back personality. He is a well-behaved, versatile dog with great strength and character, and who loves and needs to be with his family or, in his eyes, his flock. While most herding dogs will nip at the heels of their herd to gather them together, the Bouvier will instead use his large powerful body to move his herd to where he can be with them and protect them.

Most Bouviers will dominate other dogs and are not recommended around cats unless raised with them. Early socialization and training is essential and will help teach them who is their friend and who is not. A well trained, well socialized Bouvier will be a great watchdog, wonderful companion, and lifetime friend.

The Bouvier des Flanders is well suited to outdoor living but needs human companionship. He's a messy dog when indoors and needs an owner capable of dealing with his wet beard, muddy feet, and tendency for flatulence (gas).

Breed Type

AKC Group: Herding Group

Originally used for cattle herding but also used for herding oxen and general farm work such as pulling carts.

The Bouvier des Flandres is used for tracking by the police, search and rescue missions, and as guide dogs for the blind.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: This is a working dog who needs to be physically and mentally challenged with lots of exercise and activities.

Grooming: This is a very hairy breed of dog requiring a greater dedication to grooming than most dogs. His hair and beard must be brushed and combed two to three times a week and should be stripped regularly.

Health

Life Expectancy: 11 - 12 Years

Possible Problems:
Bloat Syndrome
Cancer
Cataracts
Gastric Torsion
Glaucoma
Volvulus (an obstruction in the intestine due to abnormal twisting)

Country of Origin

Belgium/France - 1600s