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Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres is a brave and powerful breed that is devoted and intelligent. It's a large herding dog that makes a good family pet or military working dog.
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Physical Characteristics
- Large, square build
- Oval-shaped eyes, black nose and small, high-set ears
- Naturally without tail; those born with tails are usually docked
- Shaggy beard and eyebrows
- Coat: Wiry, thick hair with soft undercoat; coat colors come in a variety of colors
- Height: 22-28 inches
- Weight: 60-90 pounds
- Average lifespan: 10-12 years
Temperament
- Calm, obedient, even-tempered, fearless, loyal, protective, gentle
- Interaction with people: Good with children; wary of strangers
- Interaction with animals: Gets along with other pets and dogs if socialized as puppies
- Protection: Good guard dog; ideal farm dog
Medical Conditions
- Allergies
- Cancers
- Congential cardiac disease (including subvalvular aortic stenosis)
- Dermatitis
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Ophthalmic disorders (including lens luxation and glaucoma)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Needs long daily walks
- Enjoys playing outside
- Do not over-exercise as puppies
Grooming
- Average shedder
- Needs daily brushing
- May require professional trimming throughout the year
- Trim hair inside ears and between pads of feet
Other Facts
- This breed's name means "cowherd from Flanders"
- Also known as vuilbaard (dirty beard), koehond (cow dog), toucheur de boeuf or pic (cattle driver)
- Used as a search-and-rescue dog, guide dog, police dog, therapy dog and military dog
Breed History
- Originated in Belgium and France; found on both the French northern plain and in southwest Flanders
- First used as a cattle herding dog
- Lost function and popularity upon the invention of the automobile
- Assisted soldiers during World War I with search-and-rescue and carrying messages
- Breed was almost extinct after World War I, but was built back up
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Bouvier des Flandres Club For breed rescue opportunities, visit American Bouvier Rescue League
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