Bouvier des Flandres
Group: Herding
Lifespan: 10-12 Years
Pups per Litter: 5-10
Average Weight: 60-90 lbs.
Average Height: 22-29 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: HIgh
Temperment with:
Children 
Other Dogs Other Animals 
History
The Bouvier des Flandres’ origin is undetermined but is thought to have been from Flanders. It is thought that it was created by breeding a Beaceron with a Griffon. They were used to guard, to herd cattle, and in World War one, were used as a rescue dog and a message carrier and during this time, became almost extinct! After the war had ended, the breed started to be rebuilt. The name itself means Cowherd from Flanders.
Traits
The Bouvier des Flandres is a gentle giant. They look daunting but these dogs in reality are very sweet. The Bouvier is a quick learner and a good watch/guard dog. They would make great family dogs as they love children and are good natured but should be with an owner that is experienced with either this breed or with dog behavior as they can be quite dominant as puppies and if not trained correctly, could become dominant as adults. They do for the most part get along with other dogs if they’re socialized as pups, but should be monitored with other family pets.
Appearance
Weighing in at 60-90 lbs (27-41 kgs) and averaging 22-28 inches high, the Bouvier is a powerhouse of a dog. They are a muscular and strong dog. The coat is double layered with the outer coat being wiry and rough, and the inner layer being thick and smoother. The coat colours come in fawn, brindle, gray and black. Coats that are all blonde, are a disqualification, but white markings on the chest are allowed. The fur on the face of the dog resembles that of a beard and moustache! The have smaller pricked up and cropped ears and a docked tail.
Health
The Bouvier des Flandres is a generally healthy breed. They are however prone to Hip Dysplasia and Cataracts. They are a tough breed and don’t react much to pain as they are used to working in tough climates and terrains.
Training
The Bouvier is an intelligent breed and a quick learner. They can be trained quite easily if they have an owner who has experience in training or with this breed. They can be dominant and will need this type of owner to make sure they don’t become this way. The owner will need to keep the training very clear and consistent but not be harsh as the Bouvier will not excel if the methods of training are negative.
Care
The Bouvier des Flandres is a moderate maintenance breed. Their coat requires a lot of brushing weekly. They have a thick double coat that needs constant grooming. They are a low shedding dog, but need to have the hair removed from their ears removed every few months.
Breed
This breed is categorized in the Herding Group. They would do well in an apartment or house if they are exercised regularly. They need either daily walking or access to a yard to run around in. As a puppy, this breed should not be over exercised as they need as much time as possible to strengthen their joints to become strong adults. The average lifespan of the Bouvier is 10-12 years. They have between 5-10 pups per litter. When obtaining a puppy Bouvier, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
Reference pages for Information:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/bouvierdesflandres.htm Bouvier des Flandres Breed Information
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bouvier_des_Flandres Bouvier des Flandres Information
http://www.bouvier.org/ABRL/rescue.html Bouvier des Flandres Rescue
http://www.akc.org/breeds/bouvier_des_flandres/ Bouvier des Flandres AKC Standards
http://www.bouvier.org Bouvier des Flandres Club
