BOUVIER DES FLANDRES
APPEARANCE
The Bouvier is a powerfully built compact rough coated dog of rugged appearance. Their most notable feature is the impressive head which is accentuated by a heavy beard and mustache. The ears and tail of the Bouvier are traditionally cropped. They are powerfully built, with a thick double coat, which can be fawn, black, grey brindle, or “pepper and salt” in color. The Bouvier Des Flandres reaches heights of around 23-28 inches, and weighs in at around 65-130 pounds.
PERSONALITY
Bouvier des Flandres are rational, gentle, loyal, and protective in nature. The breed’s unique blend of characteristics makes them good family pets, as well as keen guard dogs. Unlike many animals bred for basic aggressive nature and power, the Bouvier des Flandres possess sophisticated traits, such as complex control, intelligence, and accountability. The Bouvier Des Flandres is a very alert and responsive dog in most cases, and these dogs usually have an even temper.
TRAINING
Consistent training is a must for this large and sometimes stubborn breed. Requires firm training. The Bouvier des Flanders is a naturally very clean dog and will typically learn the routine of housetraining within a very short period of time, often just a couple of weeks. They are also good both on and off the leash and can be trained to heel off the leash with little effort once they have passed the impulsive puppy stage.
EXERCISE
The Bouvier des Flandres requires a good deal of exercise and should be interacted with daily. Long walks, shorter jogs and lots of playtime are essential for the growing puppy. The Bouvier des Flanders, once fully mature, can handle lots of long, regular exercise. The Bouvier des Flanders will also self-exercise if provided a large yard or space however they tend to be inactive if left alone in the house. They are happy when given something to do, which is why they are sometimes used as tracking and therapy dogs.
SOCIALIZATION
They get along well with children that they have been raised with, as well as other animals that they have been raised with, although some can be aggressive towards other dogs. The Bouvier des Flanders can, when properly socialized, learn to get along with other pets although they are not recommended for houses with non-canine pets as they do chase. He can be quite reserved and stand offish with strangers.
LIVING CONDITIONS
Bouvier des Flanders are moderately active indoors and can reside in an apartment if they get enough exercise. However, a sizeable yard would be preferable.
GROOMING
Bouvier des Flanders should be groomed two to three times a week and there will be little shedding, although in the spring and fall the grooming requirements will increase. Groom with a pin brush or very stiff bristle brush grooming in the direction of hair growth. Avoid bathing the dog and only do so when absolutely necessary. Caring for the ears, especially in Bouvier des Flanders with the natural ears is important as wax and debris can build up causing infections.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Bouvier Des Flandres is around 10-12 years. Significant health issues for this breed include canine hip dysplasia, glaucoma and elbow dysplasia. Hypothyroidism is also occasionally seen.
HISTORY
The monks at the Ter Duinen monastery, in Flanders, were the Bouvier’s first breeders. This was a working dog able to perform tirelessly, herding and guarding cattle and even pulling cargo carts. The Bouvier Des Flandres was registered with the AKC in 1931.
