Bouvier des Flandress: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Bouvier des Flandres breed

The Bouvier des Flandres!

The Bouvier des Flandres is a herding dog- powerfully built, rugged and formidable in appearance. Its harsh double coat protects him in all types of weather; while his keen sense of smell and watchful gaze make him a most suitable farm dog. The Bouvier is agile, spirited and bold with a calm and steady manner. He thrives on plenty of room to work and exercise, but is not an "outdoor dog"; he must live with his loving people -- his "flock," his "pack".

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12-14 years

Energy Level:
Moderate-low

Living Conditions:
Large indoor spaces with loving family.

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
Daily walk or yard play.

Breed Group:
Herding

Size:
Large

Height:
24-28 inches

Weight:
69-90 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
From fawn to black, passing through salt and pepper, gray and brindle.

National breed club:
The American Bouvier des Flandres Club

Bouvier des Flandres Skills

The Bouvier’s origin is that of a cattle herder and general farmer's helper. He is an ideal farm dog. He has been used as an ambulance and messenger dog. Modern times find him as a watch and guard dog as well as a family friend, guardian and protector. His intelligence, sense of threat discrimination and keen scent qualifies many Bouviers to excel in police work, tracking and drug detection. His initiative also makes him an ideal guide dog for the blind.

Bouvier des Flandres Personality

Bouviers are big and big-hearted. They are strong and can think for themselves. This dog is tough, brave, alert, and loyal. It does not like teasing. The Bouvier is an equable dog, steady, resolute and fearless.

Exercise Needs

Bouviers need reasonable amounts of exercise. Dogs were bred through the centuries for working, herding, and other jobs and they still need an outlet for their energy. A good walk or lively game of fetch will help keep your Bouvier fit to live with.

Living Conditions

Bouviers are social animals. The family gives your dog a social structure and a sense of security, which helps him develop into a well-behaved, happy animal. The house becomes his "den," a safe place where he can rest and relax with his family. While he's not overly active in the house, he does need plenty of exercise.

Grooming Requirements

A Bouvier, being a long-haired breed, must be kept clean and well groomed for the comfort of both the owner and the dog. Bouviers have tousled, double coat capable of withstanding the hardest work in the most inclement weather. The outer hairs are rough and harsh, with the undercoat being fine, soft and dense. Weekly grooming with a brush and comb is required. The ears, nails and teeth require ample attention.

Health Issues

While Bouviers tend to be remarkably healthy dogs, bloat can be a life threatening disease that usually affects deep chested dogs in the prime of life. Bouviers also need to be put on a heartworm preventative and kept on it for life.

If you liked this dog…

...you may also like the similarity in size, coat, intelligence powerful build and agility of the Collie. In general, these intelligent dogs make excellent companions and respond beautifully to training exercises.