13Mar

Bouvier des Flandres

Bouvier des Flandres traces its roots back to France and Belgium. The breed was developed by working class people who didn’t want a show dog but a working dog to help them in chores.

Physical Traits

Area of Origin: Belgium
Used for: Watchdog, guard, police and military work
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Color: Black, Tan, Gray and Blonde
Coat: Weather-resistant, rough and harsh outer hair
Average Height: 23-28 inches
Average Weight: 75-110 pounds
Group: Herding

History and Domestication

Bouvier des Flandres was developed in Belgium by working class people who wanted a working dog like themselves. This breed then came to be used by farmers, butchers and cattle merchants on an everyday basis. However, the looks and size of the dog differed then but it had distinct features to be recognized as a Bouvier. Its name Bouvier des Flandres means “Cowherd form Flandres”. Over the time, this dog has had several nicknames like “pic” meaning cattle driver, “Koehond” meaning cow dog and “Vulibaard” meaning dirty beard. These dogs were used as messengers and rescue dogs during World War 1.

Standard Physical Characteristics

This is a powerful, large and rugged-looking dog. A proportionate head gives him a square profile. Back is short and firm and has a level top-line. The muzzle is broad and strong and slightly tapered. The stop is more pronounced due to the bushy eyebrows. Eyes are dark brown and oval in shape and have black eye rims. Front legs are straight and the back legs are well-muscled and powerful.

Care, Grooming and Health

This breed requires a lot of grooming and its long coat needs to be brushed regularly. Bathe him only when necessary. It needs trimming at least thrice a year. Make sure that you trim hair near his feet to keep them nice and round. It will not shed much hair at home if groomed well. 

This is a very energetic and athletic dog and needs exercise. These dogs need to be taken out on long brisk walks or allowed to run alongside a bike. This dog requires a lot of energy to build a healthy and strong frame so during initial stages limit his exercise to walking only so as not to stress the muscles and joints.

This breed is prone to hip dyslexia and eye problems like cataracts. They also tend to pass gas.

Living Conditions

If sufficiently exercised, this dog will do okay in an apartment. They are also quite inactive indoors so will need a large yard.

Temperament

Though it may look intimidating but actually it is a gentle and pleasant natured dog. This is an obedient dog and with ample exercise, it is usually calm. It is easy to train and proves to be excellent watchdog and guard due to its fearless, enthusiastic and even-tempered nature. They learn relatively easy but need trainers who can display natural dominance and preferably experienced. They need to be socialized at an early stage to prevent reserve nature and shyness. This is a good family dog and excellent with children.

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