Bouvier des Flandres
Breed Summary
The Bouvier des Flandres is a large, strong, impressive, and powerfully built compact dog. They have 2 thick, rough coats that give them a rugged appearance and protect them from harsh environments. They show the impression of impressive strength, with no sign of heaviness or clumsiness in his overall makeup. Bouvier des Flandres are agile and bold, yet his well-behaved disposition denotes his steady and fearless character. His gaze is alert and brilliant, depicting his intelligence, vigor, and daring. By nature, he is an equable dog.
Country of Origin: Belgium
AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 84 of 196
AKC Classification: Herding
UKC Classification: Herding Dog
Exercise Requirements: >40 minutes/day
Height: Female: 23.5-26.5 in.; Male: 24.5-27.5 in.
Weight: Female: 60-90 lbs.; Male: 60-90 lbs.
Physical traits: Powerful, Compact, Large
Coat: Length: Medium
Characteristics: Double coat, hard coat
Colors: Fawn, black, gray, brindle
Overall Grooming Needs: High
Personality traits/Temperament: Affectionate, Courageous, Strong-Willed
Energy Level: High
Tendency to Drool: Low
Tendency to Snore: Low
Tendency to Bark: Low
Tendency to Dig: Low
Social/Attention Needs: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Health
Bouvier des Flandres are healthy dogs. Their life expectancy is 10 to 12 years. Like all large and deep-chested breeds, the Bouvier can experience gastric dilatation and bloat. Owners should learn how to identify this potentially life-threatening condition and learn what emergency steps to take to address it. Some dogs can develop itchy skin conditions where baths with a
high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner is recommended. Flea control is also essential. Responsible breeders need to screen their breeding stock for certain health conditions like Bouvier des Flandres myopathy, cataracts, deafness, ectopic ureters, epilepsy, glaucoma, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, laryngeal paralysis, mega-esophagus, elbow dysplasia, portosystemic shunt, and subaortic stenosis.
Nutrition
The Bouvier dog depends on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared. Add a high-quality dog multivitamin to complete the nutritional circle. Provide a diet according to the different stages of a dog (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so monitor your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Don’t give human foods that are not safe for them. Consult with your veterinarian for further advice.
Training
Bouvier’s are easy to train because of their impressive independent thinking. They are happiest when they have a job to do, whether that job is babysitting, herding, obedience, or guard dog or rescue work. Bouvier’s are easily trained to do almost any dog sport or activity, and they usually excel at it. They have a powerful prey drive so should be well socialized from the start. This breed is well suited for search and rescue work and adapts to the training easily.
Exercise
The Bouvier was bred to do everything that needs doing in a barnyard and pasture except milk the cows. They are happiest when they stay busy. Boredom can make them destructive. They like to go with an owner who hikes or jogs or even bikes. Use paw balm daily to protect their feet. The Bouvier needs a large, enclosed exercise area where he can romp and play, preferably with other dogs or kids who will keep him in excellent condition both mentally and physically. Bouvier des Flandres can compete in dog agility trials, carting, obedience, dog showmanship, Schutzhund, tracking, and herding events.
Fun Fact
During World War one, the bouvier was used for carrying messages and rescuing soldiers.
References
1. American Kennel Club. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.akc.org/
2. Dog Breeds | Hill’s Pet. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/breeds
3. List of Dog Breeds | Petfinder. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/
4. All Dog Breeds - Complete List of Dog Profiles. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/profiles
5. Dog Breeds | Types of Dogs | Purina. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breeds
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