The Beauceron: French Herding Breed

The Beauceron is a very ancient breed which has been used for centuries in France as a herding dog and guardian of the flock. Other names for the dog are Berger de Beauce (Shepherd of the Beauce) or Bas Rouge (Red Stockings). The descriptive name of “red stockings” describes the typical coloring of the dog, it must have red on all four legs and elsewhere as described in the breed standard written by the Beauceron Club of America: ” the markings are: dots above the eyes; on the sides of the muzzle, fading off on the cheeks, never reaching the underside of the ears; two spots on the chest are preferred to a breastplate; on the throat; under the tail; on the legs the markings extend from the feet to the pasterns, progressively lessening, though never covering more than 1/3 of the leg, rising slightly higher on the inside of the leg”.

The Beauceron is not well known outside of France, although it has increased in popularity in the United States where there is an active Beauceron club which has made strides in getting the dog entered into the Miscellaneous class of the American kennel Club.

The Beauceron in the show ring is a dog that is judged not only on structure but also on his unique movement known as the extended trot which can cover a great deal of ground fluidly and smoothly. This trot is known as the “Beauceron trot” and is much admired and is the sign of a well balanced working/herding ability. The Beauceron was used as a herding dog for many centuries in a land where there were no fences, consequently he could easily travel many miles in a day keeping his flock rounded up. This is a breed that has changed very little through the centuries and it is said that all correctly built Beauceron should posses this extended trot and the stamina to keep it up for a long period of time.

The Beauceron is similar in appearance to the Doberman, although heavier and larger. There are some who believe that the Beauceron was used in the bloodlines of the Doberman. The Beauceron has all the characteristics of an all purpose working dog, he is highly loyal and focuses well on his training and what is required of him. He has been used as a messenger dog during both World Wars, he is still in use by the military and also serves as a police dog and drug dog. He has found great service as a tracking dog and a search and rescue dog, he is enjoyed by his human admirers in all the areas of obedience and utility. Just some of the activities in which Beauceron owners have participated with their dogs include: skijoring, sled pulling and weight pulling, scent detection, agility, Schutzhund and Ring sport. This is a dog that will happily apply himself to anything that is asked of him and is an intelligent dog with a willingness to please. He has a strong sense of guardianship and protectiveness but should never be aggressive without cause.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Dogs

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell