Read About Bouvier des Flandres

Bouvier des Flandres' are obedient and gentle dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Bouvier des Flandres Summary:

1. Size:

   Large Dog Breed

2. Weight:

   60-90 lbs

3. Coat:

   Long Coated

4. Shedding:

   Low Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Moderately Affectionate

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Moderately Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with Children

Bouvier des Flandres - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Herding;1931

2. Size & Weight:

   22-28 inches tall, 60-90 lbs

3. Coat:

   Bouvier des Flandres' have a rough shaggy outer coat and a thick undercoat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their head is large and in proportion to their body. They have a broad muzzle that tapers gradually toward the nose and is accentuated with a beard and mustache. The ears are placed high on the head.

5. Body:

   Bouvier des Flandres' have strong, short and broad bodies with a broad, deep chest. The neck is strong and muscular.

6. Colors:

   According to the AKC the acceptable colors range from fawn to black.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 yrs

8. Popularity:

   In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 85 out of 154 breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The Bouvier des Flandres' will do ok in an apartment as they is fairly inactive indoors. However, a large yard where they can run and play is best.

Bouvier des Flandres - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Franco-Belgian

2. Historical Information:

   There is much disagreement about the exact origin of this Franco-Belgian dog. Some believe it was formed by crossing the Griffon and the Beauceron. Bouvier des Flandres' were used as rescue and messenger dogs during World War I.

Bouvier des Flandres - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Bouvier des Flandres' are obedient and gentle.

2. Behavior:

   They need to learn with a firm but gentle hand who is boss. They should begin obedience training early to prevent dominance problems.

3. Habits:

   Bouvier des Flandres' can be shy around strangers.

Bouvier des Flandres - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   They are a generally healthy breed. Some minor concerns are hip dysplasia and eye problems.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Bouvier des Flandres' require a moderate amount of exercise. They make great companions on long walks. They should not be strenuously exercised during their puppy years while they are still growing.

3. Grooming Needs:

   They require a regular brushing and need to be trimmed 3 times a year. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Keep the hair in their ears and between the pads of their feet trimmed.

4. Travel Needs:

   For the safety of yourself as well as your Bouvier des Flandres, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Bouvier des Flandres' are excellent with children. They will do fine with other pets if socialized early. They usually do fine with cats they are raised with but should be watched around all non-canine animals.

Bouvier des Flandres -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.

3. Puppy-proofing your house:

   Keep all small objects out of reach.

4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

   Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.