Bouvier Des Flandres

Bouvier Des Flandres Facts

Bouvier Des Flandres Information

Bouvier Des Flandres Description:

Bouvier Des Flandres Care & Grooming:

Bouvier Des Flandres Health Problems:

Group:	Herding
Size:	Large
Life Span:	10-12 years
Height:	Male: 24-28 inches
	Female: 23-27 inches
Weight:	Male: 70-100 lbs
	Female: 60-80 lbs

Coat :	Outercoat is rough. Undercoat is soft, dense and fine.
Gait :	Free and energetic
Color(s) :	Fawn, black, grey and brindle
Living Area :	Any
Hair Length:	Long
Exercise Need :	Daily long walk and jog
Recognized By :	(CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (UKC) United Kennel Club (KCGB) Kennel Club of Great Britain (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (ANKC) Australian National Kennel Council (NKC) National Kennel Club (NZKC) New Zealand Kennel Club (APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	19th Century
Place of Origin :	Belgium
Todays Use :	Farm dog, Guard Dog
Originally Used :	Farm dog, Cattle Herding
Other Name :	Flanders Cattle Dog, Vlaamse Koehond

The origin of the Bouvier des Flandres lies in Flanders, Belgium. The breed is believed to be a result of crossbreeding between the Irish Wolfhound, Scottish Deerhound and the local farm dogs of Belgium. However, certain theories suggest that it is a result of crossbreeding between the Griffon and the Beauceron. Until the earlier part of the 20th century, the breed was recognized as three different variants- Paret, Moerman and Roeselare. However, after the First World War, all three variants were on the brink of extinction. Due to effort of a group of people the breed was resurrected and identified in one name. In the olden days, this dog was primarily used for farm work such as herding and guarding cattle, and hence its name, which is French for “cow herder of Flandres.” It was first recognized by the AKC in 1931.

The Bouvier des Flandres is a large sized dog with a strong, sturdy frame. It has a large head which is proportionate to the body; oval shaped eyes which are dark brown in color; high set ears which are carried erect and are triangular in shape when cropped; a large nose which is black in color with flared nostrils; a strong and deep muzzle which slightly tapers towards the end; taut lips with teeth which meet in scissors bite. This breed has a docked tail which is set high and carried erect. It has medium sized legs which are square shaped with large, well padded feet. It has a weather resistant double coat with a long and harsh outercoat, and a soft, dense and fine undercoat. The color of the coat can be fawn, black, grey and brindle, may have little white markings on the chest.

The Bouvier des Flandres is an obedient dog with a gentle demeanor. It is excellent with kids as well as good with other dogs. However, caution is advised with small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs etc. Socialization is required at an early age to bring out the best behavior. It is an easy to train breed which is known for its obedience. It has natural protective and guarding instincts and hence, makes for an excellent guard dog and a watchdog. However, a calm sense of authority is needed when training this breed. If not handled well, it can become dominant and have severe behavioral issues. Thus, this breed is not recommended for beginners. If exercised properly, it adapts well to an apartment life but more comfortable at least in an average sized yard.

The Bouvier des Flandres sheds little hair. Its long and rough coat needs extensive grooming. It needs to be brushed almost daily to avoid matting or tangling of the hair. It should be bathed only when necessary and must be dried properly after each bath. Its hair grows continuously so trimming is required in every 3-4 months. Its eyes and ears should be cleaned properly. The hair around the ears, eyes and paws needs to be trimmed regularly.

It is an active breed which needs lot of daily exercise. Daily walks are essential for emotional and developmental needs of the dog. These need to be supplemented with jogging or running in an open area on a regular basis. It tends to gain weight quickly so should not be overfed.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The Bouvier des Flandres is prone to some health issues like hip Dysplasia, Bloat, Cataract etc.

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Height:	Male: 24-27 inches Female: 23-26 inches
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