Beauceron Dog Breed Profile Information

The Beauceron is a large working dog that is used for herding. We see a slightly longer body than its height. The head is in good proportion to the body and is narrows down to a broad muzzle that is equal in length to the skull. The eyes are slightly oval and brown in colour. The ears are half pricked or can be drop ears that are set high on the head. They can be cropped. If showing this dog, they need double dew claws on each back leg. They have a fringed tail and carry it low, reaching at least to the hock; this should look like the letter "J" The tail should have long hair as well on their hock. The coat of this breed is double and the main body is smooth and short haired, with the outer coat being harsh and the undercoat soft. It mostly comes in black with tan markings, but you can get the harlequin coat that has patches of grey, black and tan. This should have more black than grey, and no white. In the more common black and tan you can see two tan markings, one above each eye, on the sides of the muzzle fading out before you reach the end of the cheeks, these markings should not go under the ears. Tan marking can be on the chest, and it is desirable for these to be seen as two spots but it is OK to have this as a chest plate of colour.

History: The Beauceron dog breed is very rare inside America. It is a French herding dog going back to around 1578. In 1863 the Beauceron was shown at the canine exposition held in Paris. The first club goes back to 1897. The Beauceron is believed to be involved with the development of the Doberman Pinscher. They work guarding the flock in open areas. They have been used in the military, running messages, tracking and detecting mines and finding wounded men in the midst of the battle. They are able to work even with exploding bombs and gun fire going on around them.

Temperament: The Beauceron dog breed is a working dog and so needs a lot of activity. It is intelligent, obedient and willing to please. Due to their quick ability to understand, these dogs learn fast and are great at obedience training. They have a love of wide open spaces and can, if not checked, herd up the family. While it is possible to have this dog as a pet, this can only happen if you are willing and able to offer the dog all the exercises and mental stimulation they need. They can get along with other pets by allowing for them to get to know the other animals. Having good leadership over this dog will give you a well balance pet. Socializing helps greatly. If these conditions are met you have a lovely dog and good companion.

Health issues: As with a lot of large dogs you can find hip dysplasia can happen. Some lines are prone to have bloat.

Grooming: The Beauceron dog does not need lots of grooming and only needs a touch more attention while it is shedding.

Living conditions: The Beauceron dog can do well in an apartment but only if the right amount of exercise is given, they are fine. They do need a garden and a large garden is best suited for this dog. This dog needs long walks and in different areas, to them the variety they need. They love to run free off the lead.