Bouvier des Flandres Dog Breed Profile

Quick Stats for the Bouvier des Flandres Dog

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 23 – 28 inches (58 – 71 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 27 inches (56 – 69 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 75 – 90 pounds (34 – 41 kg)  ; bitches: 60 – 80 pounds (27 – 36 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1931
• Shedding: light shedder (sheds very little)
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; best with large yard

Personality of the Bouvier des Flandres Dog

The Bouvier des Flandres is an adventurous and independent dog. They are quite fearless and protective by nature which makes them an excellent watchdog. They are confident and bold, and an all around great guard dog.

They tend to have a dominant personality which can usually be addressed with proper training. They learn commands very quickly, and will remember a command once they are taught.

They are protective of their family and will not hesitate to defend them. They are great family dogs and are excellent with children. However, they can be reserved around other dogs and pets.

History of the Bouvier des Flandres Dog

The Bouvier originated in Belgium. Their history can be traced as far back as the 1600s. In early times, the Bouvier des Flandres was used by cattle merchants and farmers to herd and guard their livestock. They also excelled at a variety of other tasks as well. The breed lived mainly in the Flanders region, and the French northern plains.

Like many other working dogs, Bouvier dogs came in a variety of sizes, colors, and types. The actual breeds that make up the Bouvier is unknown. Some people claim that that the breed is made up of a variety of Spaniels, Mastiff, and Sheepdog. Others believe that the breed may have been formed by crossing the Griffon and the Beauceron.

In 1912, the first official breed standard was drafted for the Bouvier des Flandres. Unfortunately, many of these wonderful dogs were killed during World War I. But in 1923, a group of dog enthusiasts began working on recreating the Bouvier des Flandres breed.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1931.

The Bouvier des Flandres Dog Care and Grooming

The Bouvier can tolerate cool weather because of its heavy coat, but they do not enjoy the warm weather. They are actually capable of living outdoors during the winter months, but would rather live indoors with the rest of their family.

These dogs are active and have high levels of energy. They need daily exercise including long walks, vigorous outdoor games, and even running along while you ride your bike. If possible, they should be given the opportunity to herd.

The Bouvier des Flandres requires a lot of grooming maintenance. Grooming requirements include a good brushing at least twice per week. This will keep the long, thick coat clean. You may want to have the coat professionally groomed every eight to ten weeks.

As long as you keep your Bouvier well groomed, they should only shed very little hair.

Learn more about proper dog grooming tools.

Health Problems of the Bouvier des Flandres Dog

The average life expectancy of the Bouvier des Flandres dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• SAS (Sub-Aortic Stenosis)
• glaucoma
• elbow dysplasia
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism

Veterinarians recommend having the Bouvier des Flandres dog tested specifically for hip problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia