Dog Breeds - Bouvier Des Flanders

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed is inclined to show towards family members and familiar individuals can vary significantly. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owners, whereas other breeds tend to treat everyone they know as their closest confidant.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The degree of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can vary. It is crucial to supervise dogs when they are around young children or any children who have limited experience with dogs. While some breeds are known to be more naturally compatible with children and have a family-friendly disposition, it is important to remember that each dog is an individual with its own temperament. Thus, responsible supervision and gradual introductions are necessary to ensure the safety and harmonious interaction between dogs and children.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The disposition of a breed towards other dogs in terms of friendliness can vary. It is important to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs, regardless of breed. However, certain breeds are inherently more prone to getting along with other dogs both in a home environment and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that a breed sheds can vary significantly. Breeds that shed heavily will typically require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair and minimize shedding around the house. Additionally, high-shedding breeds may be more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals due to the increased presence of dander. It's important to note that regular vacuuming and lint-rolling may be necessary to keep up with the amount of hair these breeds shed. However, it's important to remember that even low-shedding breeds will still shed to some extent, so proper grooming and cleaning practices are beneficial for all breeds.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
When assessing the grooming effort required, it's crucial to consider how often a particular breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other coat maintenance tasks. Take into account your available time, patience, and budget for this type of care.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Consider the level of slobbering a particular dog breed is known for. If you have a penchant for cleanliness, breeds that have a tendency to leave strands of slobber on your arm or create wet patches on your clothes might not be the ideal option for you.
COAT TYPE +
Rough, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The degree of receptiveness exhibited by different dog breeds towards unfamiliar individuals can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved or cautious when encountering strangers irrespective of the setting, whereas others are generally friendly and enthusiastic about meeting new people regardless of the circumstances.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a dog breed exhibits towards play can vary even beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds tend to maintain a high level of interest in interactive play like tug-of-war or fetching well into their adult years. They enjoy activities that require physical engagement and mental stimulation. On the other hand, some breeds may be content with just relaxing on the couch and spending quality time with their owners, showing less inclination towards active play as they age.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Some dog breeds have a natural inclination to be vigilant and alert their owners of the presence of strangers. These breeds are more prone to react to any perceived threat be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, it's important to note that these breeds can also be accepting of strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of dog breeds to changes in various aspects of life can differ. Some breeds are generally more accommodating and flexible when it comes to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily routines. They easily adjust to new environments and can handle variations in their day-to-day life without much stress or difficulty. However, other breeds may be more sensitive to changes and might require more time and support to adapt to new situations. It's important to consider a breed's temperament and individual personality traits when assessing their ability to handle change.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among dog breeds. Certain breeds are renowned for their trainability and eagerness to please their owners. They are generally more receptive to training sessions and enjoy the process of learning new commands and tricks. These breeds tend to be motivated by making their owners proud and are often quick learners. On the other hand, some breeds may exhibit a more independent nature and a preference for doing things on their own terms. They may require more patience and a different approach to training as they may be less motivated by pleasing their owners and more inclined to do things their own way. However, with the right training methods and positive reinforcement even these breeds can be successful learners. It's important to note that individual personality traits can also influence a dog's trainability and willingness to learn, regardless of breed tendencies.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements vary among different dog breeds. High-energy breeds exhibit a keen readiness for their next thrilling escapade, engaging in activities such as running, jumping, and playful endeavors throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds mirror the behavior of couch potatoes, content with lounging around and indulging in peaceful snoozes.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency at which this particular breed makes sounds be it barking or howling, varies. While certain breeds tend to bark at anyone passing by or even a bird at the window, there are others that reserve their barking for specific circumstances. Furthermore, there are breeds that don't bark but still find ways to communicate vocally through alternative sounds.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The level of mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain happiness and good health can vary significantly. Purpose-bred dogs, in particular, may have jobs that necessitate decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other cognitive qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may seek out their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which might not align with the preferences of their owners.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed is inclined to show towards family members and familiar individuals can vary significantly. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owners, whereas other breeds tend to treat everyone they know as their closest confidant.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The degree of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can vary. It is crucial to supervise dogs when they are around young children or any children who have limited experience with dogs. While some breeds are known to be more naturally compatible with children and have a family-friendly disposition, it is important to remember that each dog is an individual with its own temperament. Thus, responsible supervision and gradual introductions are necessary to ensure the safety and harmonious interaction between dogs and children.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The disposition of a breed towards other dogs in terms of friendliness can vary. It is important to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs, regardless of breed. However, certain breeds are inherently more prone to getting along with other dogs both in a home environment and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair that a breed sheds can vary significantly. Breeds that shed heavily will typically require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair and minimize shedding around the house. Additionally, high-shedding breeds may be more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals due to the increased presence of dander. It's important to note that regular vacuuming and lint-rolling may be necessary to keep up with the amount of hair these breeds shed. However, it's important to remember that even low-shedding breeds will still shed to some extent, so proper grooming and cleaning practices are beneficial for all breeds.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

When assessing the grooming effort required, it's crucial to consider how often a particular breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other coat maintenance tasks. Take into account your available time, patience, and budget for this type of care.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Consider the level of slobbering a particular dog breed is known for. If you have a penchant for cleanliness, breeds that have a tendency to leave strands of slobber on your arm or create wet patches on your clothes might not be the ideal option for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Rough, Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The degree of receptiveness exhibited by different dog breeds towards unfamiliar individuals can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved or cautious when encountering strangers irrespective of the setting, whereas others are generally friendly and enthusiastic about meeting new people regardless of the circumstances.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a dog breed exhibits towards play can vary even beyond the puppy stage. Certain breeds tend to maintain a high level of interest in interactive play like tug-of-war or fetching well into their adult years. They enjoy activities that require physical engagement and mental stimulation. On the other hand, some breeds may be content with just relaxing on the couch and spending quality time with their owners, showing less inclination towards active play as they age.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Some dog breeds have a natural inclination to be vigilant and alert their owners of the presence of strangers. These breeds are more prone to react to any perceived threat be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, it's important to note that these breeds can also be accepting of strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of dog breeds to changes in various aspects of life can differ. Some breeds are generally more accommodating and flexible when it comes to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily routines. They easily adjust to new environments and can handle variations in their day-to-day life without much stress or difficulty. However, other breeds may be more sensitive to changes and might require more time and support to adapt to new situations. It's important to consider a breed's temperament and individual personality traits when assessing their ability to handle change.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among dog breeds. Certain breeds are renowned for their trainability and eagerness to please their owners. They are generally more receptive to training sessions and enjoy the process of learning new commands and tricks. These breeds tend to be motivated by making their owners proud and are often quick learners. On the other hand, some breeds may exhibit a more independent nature and a preference for doing things on their own terms. They may require more patience and a different approach to training as they may be less motivated by pleasing their owners and more inclined to do things their own way. However, with the right training methods and positive reinforcement even these breeds can be successful learners. It's important to note that individual personality traits can also influence a dog's trainability and willingness to learn, regardless of breed tendencies.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements vary among different dog breeds. High-energy breeds exhibit a keen readiness for their next thrilling escapade, engaging in activities such as running, jumping, and playful endeavors throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds mirror the behavior of couch potatoes, content with lounging around and indulging in peaceful snoozes.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The level of mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain happiness and good health can vary significantly. Purpose-bred dogs, in particular, may have jobs that necessitate decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other cognitive qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may seek out their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which might not align with the preferences of their owners.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Black & Fawn	011
Cream	076
Gray	100
Red	140

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Mask	004
Brindle Markings	007
Sable	026

About The Breed

There was a time when dogs like the Bouvier des Flandres were renowned for their robustness and powerful physique. With their sturdy build, thick coat, and distinctive facial hair, these dogs were bred to be hardworking and versatile companions. They excel in various tasks and can serve as exceptional watchdogs with their unwavering alertness. Standing at an impressive height of up to 27.5 inches, with strong bones and muscles, Bouviers possess the capability to handle a range of duties in agricultural settings, excluding milking cows.

However, Bouviers are more than mere utilitarian tools. They have garnered a widespread following among dog enthusiasts due to their exceptional personality, affectionate nature, and remarkable intelligence. While they possess a strong work ethic that must be embraced, their adaptability allows them to undertake diverse responsibilities. In addition to their roles as guardians and protectors, Bouviers enthusiastically participate in dog sports, particularly excelling in herding trials. These determined dogs thrive when accompanied by owners who can dedicate ample time and space to cater to the needs of a top-notch working dog.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A BOUVIER DES FLANDRES

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Bouvier Des Flanders: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Bouviers are generally known to be healthy dogs. Responsible breeders take the necessary precautions to screen their breeding stock for various health conditions that may affect the Bouvier des Flandres breed. These screenings help identify and address potential concerns. Some of the health conditions that breeders typically test for include Bouvier des Flandres myopathy, cataracts, deafness, ectopic ureters, epilepsy, glaucoma, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, laryngeal paralysis, megaesophagus, elbow dysplasia, portosystemic shunt, and subaortic stenosis. Like many large and deep-chested breeds, Bouviers can be susceptible to gastric dilatation and bloat. This condition, if not promptly addressed, can be life-threatening. It is important for owners to familiarize themselves with the signs and symptoms of this condition and be prepared to take immediate action in case of an emergency. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Elbow Evaluation Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	To keep the Bouvier's coat in good shape, regular brushing sessions, usually once or twice a week are recommended. Using a high-quality slicker brush or pin brush along with a large comb can effectively remove any tangles or mats. Additionally, during brushing sessions, it is important to pay attention to the beard, which may require cleaning or grooming to maintain cleanliness and tidiness. Another aspect of grooming is the regular trimming of the dog's toenails. Ideally, the Bouvier's nails should be trimmed every one to two weeks to ensure they don't become too long or cause discomfort to the dog. It is essential to use appropriate nail clippers or seek professional help to trim the nails safely and without causing any unintentional harm.

Exercise

	The Bouvier was selectively bred to handle various tasks within a barnyard and pasture excluding the milking of cows. These delightful creatures find their utmost joy in remaining occupied. A Bouvier experiencing boredom can display significantly destructive behavior. They make an exceptional addition to an active home, ideally with an owner who enjoys hiking, jogging, or biking. Providing a spacious enclosed area for exercise is crucial, allowing them to frolic and interact with other dogs or children, fostering mental and physical well-being. It's important to moderate intense exercise during their growth phase.

Training

	The Bouvier thrives on having a purpose in life, finding true happiness when engaged in various tasks such as babysitting, herding, obedience training, guarding, or even rescue missions. These intelligent dogs can be easily trained to participate in a wide range of activities or dog sports, showcasing their exceptional skills. It's important to note that Bouviers possess a strong instinct to chase prey, thus early socialization is crucial. With their inherent showmanship, they relish the opportunity to work alongside their owners, whether it be in actual work or competitive endeavors. With a deep desire to please, once they understand your expectations, Bouviers will give their utmost effort to gratify you. This breed displays remarkable aptitude for search and rescue operations, readily adapting to the necessary training.

Nutrition

	The Bouvier thrives when provided with high-quality dog food, regardless of whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared at home under the guidance of a veterinarian. It is important to ensure that the chosen diet is suitable for the dog's age, be it as a puppy, adult, or senior. For Bouviers, a diet with lower protein content is recommended compared to other breeds. Since some Bouviers have a tendency to gain weight, it is crucial to monitor their calorie intake and weight. While treats can be beneficial during training, overindulgence can lead to obesity. Familiarize yourself with human foods that are safe for dogs and those that are not. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet, consult with your veterinarian. Lastly, it is essential to keep clean and fresh water accessible to your Bouvier at all times.

Historiography

Translated as "cowherd of Flanders," the Bouvier des Flandres earned its name due to its historical role as a herding dog. During its early years, this majestic breed was known by various names such as "vuilbaard" (dirty beard), "koehond" (cow dog), and "toucher de boeuf or pic" (cattle driver), all of which accurately described its work. In the past, Belgium was comprised of territories that now form parts of France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, making both France and Belgium claim the Bouvier as a native breed. Farmers in these regions preferred to have one versatile dog, rather than a team of specialized dogs, so Bouviers were valued as herders, watchdogs, guardians, and even cart-pullers.

As the 20th century began, the Bouvier des Flandres started attracting attention from dog enthusiasts outside their traditional farming environment. A Belgian breed club was established and experts from France and Belgium developed an official breed standard. However, the outbreak of World War I disrupted the breed's progress. The war devastated Flanders displacing farmers and leading to the loss or destruction of many Bouviers.

Fortunately, the Belgian army played a crucial role in preserving the Bouvier breed, as these dogs demonstrated bravery and resourcefulness during wartime. In times of peace, Bouviers continued to prove their worth as police dogs across Europe and even as guide dogs for the visually impaired.

Despite surviving the devastating effects of World War I, the Bouvier des Flandres faced another near-extinction after World War II. However, European expatriates played a vital role in keeping the breed alive in the United States. In 1963, the American Bouvier des Flandres Club was established ensuring the future preservation of these remarkable dogs.