Learn more on Bouvier Des Flandres Dog

Bouvier Des Flandres Dog

With the Bouvier des Flandres we see a large and powerful dog, that is a rugged looking dog. The dog is heavy and in good proportion, giving the dog a square profile. The head is slightly longer than it is wide. The muscle is wide between the ears and is in parallel with the skull. With a broad and strong muzzle, they have a black nose. With bushy eyebrows, making their face look more pronounced than it really is. Their teeth meet in a scissor bite. This breed has dark brown eyes with black eye rims. Their ears are set high and can be either cropped or left natural, they are triangular in shape. The front legs are straight, and powerful back legs. The tale is set high and is docked, in countries where this is allowed. They have a beautiful double coat, that is water resistant, rough and harsh to the touch. The undercoat is fine and soft, and very dense. The coat is cut to show shaggy, thick beard and eyebrows, giving the breed its look. Coat colours come in, blonde, fawn, black, grey, salt-and-pepper, brindle colour. Occasionally, you find a small white star on the chest. All black coats are not favoured in the show ring, and blonde coats are not be accepted.

History: There is mixed debate about the real origins of this breed. It is believed this dog was created by crossing the Griffin and the Beauceron. The breeds origins hail from Belgium. The working class, who are not interested in having a show dog, but want a working dog instead, were responsible. But this time the dogs varied in size and look, but were still recognized. As this breeds main uses were messengers and rescue dogs, during World War I. Due to the war, this dog was nearly killed off. In 1923 the dog was revived by individuals working to save this breed. This dog has many talents are, guardian, track dog, search and rescue, police work, military work, competitive obedience, and watchdog.

Temperament: This dog may look intimidating, but is an obedient dog, and very pleasant natured. With the right amount of exercise it will be a lovely calm dog, enthusiastic, responsible, and even tempered. This can be an excellent guard dog and watch dog, that can be easy trained. This dog requires balanced training, which is consistent. Good pack leadership is required to bring the out the best of this breed. They should be socialised well from an early age, to prevent shyness. This dog is excellent with children, is very adaptable, and goes about its own business calmly and quietly. This dog automatically protects a family as this is what it was bred to do. If this breed is socialised well from a young age they will get on well with cats and other pets. But some caution has to be exercised with non-canine pets. This breed is slow to mature and takes around two to three years.

Health issues: Hip dysplasia is in this breed, eye problems can occur, this dog has a high pain threshold and so all had to be aware that they may receive injuries that aren't apparent.

Grooming: This breed needs lots of grooming, brushing the long coat regularly and bathing the dog when necessary. This breed needs a good trimming at least three times a year. Do not let the hair grow too long close to the feet.

Living conditions: With the right amount of exercise this dog can live in apartments. This breed will enjoy a large garden.