Quick Stats for the Beauceron Dog
- Height (at the shoulders): 24 – 27 inches (61 – 69 cm)
- Weight: up to 110 pounds (50 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
- AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 2007
- Shedding: average shedder
- Living Conditions: okay in apartment; moderately active indoors; best with a large yard
Personality of the Beauceron Dog
The Beauceron is an intelligent and energetic member of the AKC Herding Group. They are solid and powerful dogs, with strong jaws, an agile body, and a dense, straight coat.
They are protective dogs who are loyal family pets. Beaucerons are calm, courageous, and great guardians. They are gentle and patient around children.
These dogs love to learn new things which makes them great when it comes to training. They are also good at obedience training, and excel in protection training.
History of the Beauceron Dog
The Beauceron breed originated in France, but is not entirely a French breed. Their history goes as far back as the 1500s. The Beauceron actually originated from the plains outside of Paris, know as La Beauce. These dogs were mainly used on farms to herd sheep, protect cattle, and to guard their family.
Two varieties of the same dog emerged in 1863. One was a dog used for herding flocks of animals. This was the long-coated Berger de Brie, known as the Briard breed. The other type was a dog used for guarding. This is the short-coated Berger de Beauce, which is now known as the Beauceron.
The first Berger de Beauce was registered in 1893 by the Societe Centrale Canine Group. The first breed club was started in 1922.
In France, the breed was famous for being one of the best herding dogs. However, they remained largely unknown outside of France. They were also well respected for being military service dogs during both World Wars. During their service in the military, they were used to follow trails and to detect land mines.
The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 2007.
The Beauceron Dog Care and Grooming
These dogs can tolerate warm and cool temperatures, and should have plenty of time outdoors.
Beaucerons are quite intelligent and very energetic, which means that they need lots of daily mental stimulation and physical exercise. These dogs are not happy when they are left to sit around all day without any activity. If you do not give the Beauceron dog enough mental and physical stimulation, they can become easily bored which can lead to destructive behaviors.
Grooming this dog requires a light brushing weekly to remove any dead hairs. Groom more frequently when the dog is shedding. Be sure to use the proper grooming brushes and a good comb for dogs.
They are average shedders.
Health Problems of the Beauceron Dog Breed
The average life expectancy of the Beauceron dog is about ten to twelve years.
This dog breed has no major health concerns.
Minor health issues include:
- CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
- gastric torsion
- prone to bloat
Veterinarians recommend having the Beauceron tested specifically for hip problems.
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:
What an interesting dog breed. Thank you so much for sharing. Its nice to know that there are so many dog lovers out here.. just like me.
Lots of Good information in your post, I favorited your blog post so I can visit again in the near future, Thanks, Megan Granroth
Hello Megan,
Thanks for stopping by and glad you enjoyed the site.
Omar