BOUVIER DES FLANDRES DOG BREED

Description:

The Bouvier des Flandres bear his origin in his name. He comes from the historic county of Flanders, whose territory is now part of Belgium and the Netherlands. Bouviers are herding dogs, originally used for general farm work including cattle droving, sheep herding and cart pulling. The Bouvier des Flandres was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1931.

Height: 24.5-27.5 inches  Weight: 70-110 pounds  Lifespan: 10-12 years

Characteristics:

In spite of his impressive size, the Bouvier des Flandres has very friendly and balanced character. This is a very clever, strong, loving and playful dog. Bouviers get very attached to their family, they are loyal and protective by nature, which makes them excellent guard dog makes. Comparable Breed: Airedale Terrier and Kerry Blue Terrier.

Character:

Quiet and calm breed, the Bouvier de Flandres is intelligent, fearless, good-natured and responsible. Bouviers are not recommended for inexperienced breeders who are not able to control such dominant breed. Nevertheless, with proper treatment and enhanced training, the Bouvier de Flandres can be perfect family pet.

Coat / Care:

Bouvier de Flandres have thick, weather-repellent double coat. The outer coat is rough, shaggy and slightly crispy, while the undercoat is soft and dense. The Bouvier appears in a variety of colors, including fawn, gray, black, salt and pepper and brindle. The coat should be combed twice a week and clipped every 3 months, in order to look good and to prevent tangling. This breed is colossal and grows rapidly.

Health Problems:

The Bouvier de Flandres is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they’re prone to Hypothyroidism, Elbow dysplasia, Glaucoma, Hip Dysplasia, Cataracts, Cancer, Ectropion, Entropion, Epilepsy, Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis, Addison’s Disease, Gastric Torsion and Cushing’s Disease. The Bouvier de Flandres has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.

Weight / Height

The male Bouvier des Flandres dog breed’s height is around 24.5 – 27.5 inches and weighs around 90 and 110 pounds. Female Bouvier des Flandres dogs can reach a size from 23.5 – 26.5 inches and weighs between 70 and 100 pounds. Male dogs are generally larger than females.

Training:

This stubborn breed requires sustained and regular training. If adequately educated, the Bouvier de Flandres makes an excellent guard dog. The Bouvier can be bossy, that’s why he needs an experienced owner who is capable of conducting obedience training which can be rather challenging.

Activity:

A village house with a large yard is the best habitat for Bouviers. Nevertheless, this big dog can also live in an apartment, provided that he exercises enough, at least long walks on a leash. Bouviers multi-talented dogs, they are exceptional in obedience, agility and herding trials.

Photo Credit: raddewey/Flickr