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Bouvier Des Flandres Facts
- Group
- Herding
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 26.5" - 27.5"
- Weight
- 65-100 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 12 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
koe hond (cow dog), toucheur de boeuf (cattle drover), vuilbaard (dirty beard)
Origin
The Bouvier originated in Southwest Flanders and on the French northern plain.
Date Of Origin
Although there is no solid record, it is believed that the Bouvier was developed in the late 19th century.
History
Most of the early breeders of this dog were farmers, butchers, or cattle merchants not particularly interested in breeding pedigreed dogs. All they wanted was help in their work. It is believed to be descended from continental herding breeds, such as the Schnauzer. Its use was antiquated when the automobile was invented and cattle began being transported by truck; however breed fanciers worked to save the breed. The Bouvier des Flandres was first introduced to the United States in the 1930's.
Description
This is a large, powerful, squarely built compact dog with a large head. The flat skull is long and broad with a broad muzzle. It has oval, brown eyes; a large, black nose; and small ears that are cropped erect or naturally drop. The neck is muscular and the chest is broad. The Bouvier is naturally tailless or the tail is docked to about 4" long and set high. The double coat has a fine, dense undercoat and rough tousled outer coat with a thick mustache, beard, and eyebrows with erect hairs. The coat is short on the skull and upper part of the back. Some have a small white star on their chest.
Temperament
This is a versatile dog that is even tempered and gentle. It is protective, but capable of determining real from imagined threats. It is both courageous and intelligent and does fine with children.
Uses
Its true mission is herding cows, but due to its powerful physique and its high level of intelligence, It has been used as a guard dog and for rescuing the wounded in battle.
Health Concerns
Autoimmune disorders, cancer, glaucoma, hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyrodism, subaortic stenosis
Additional Information
The American Bouvier des Flandres Club says, "We cant recommend too strongly the importance of socialization and basic obedience training."
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
The All Breed Dog Grooming Guide
Publisher: Aaronco, 2002
Website: http://www.aaroncopet.com
Author: Sam Kohl
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