The Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is also known as the Belgian Cattle Dog or theVlaamse Koehund, (and sometimes Dirty Beard!). This dog takes its name from its place of origin, the plains of Flanders in Belgium; and the French word "bouvier" means herdsman. However, not much more information exists about its ancestral origins. Some claim it descended from the Schnauzer, while others suggest the breed is a mix of several European herding breeds, the Flemish cattle dogs in particular. Although its history is vague, its value as a working dog has never been questioned, whether it be herding, guarding the farm, or cart pulling. Before the Machine Age, the Bouvier was used to drive cattle to market, and later, the strong and capable dog proved its merit on the battlefields of WWI and WWII. The breed is still used for police and protection work. A breed standard was not agreed upon until 1922, and since then the breed has found favor all over the world. It carries characteristically heavy beard, moustache, and eyebrows. The Bouvier is well adapted to family living but requires regular outdoor activity; he is also still used for herding and security.

Height: 23.5 - 27.5" (59.7 - 59.7cm) for dogs, 22.5 - 25" (57.2 - 57.2cm) for bitches

Weight: 88 lbs (39.3 kg)

Coat Type: The rumpled-looking coat is harsh, wiry and rough, making it able to withstand rigorous working and climatic conditions. Colors range from black to fawn to gray to brindle. Regular grooming and some clipping is required to maintain the typical Bouvier outline. The ears are generally cropped in North America, but are left natural in Europe and the UK.

Temperament: This intelligent breed is devoted to, and protective of its family and does well in obedience training. They are sweet and good-natured dogs, yet are courageous, even audacious.

Health Problems: The Bouvier may be prone to hip dysplasia, although it is not in the highest risk category; nevertheless, it is advisable to but from OFA certified stock. And as with some of the deep-chested dogs, it may be pre-disposed to gastric torsion (bloat).

Special Interest: The Bouvier des Flandres was almost entirely wiped out after WWI when many of the dogs, serving as messengers and ambulatory dogs, were wounded or died in the battle fields of Flanders. Through the concerted efforts of a few breeders and a Belgian army veterinarian, the best of the remaining stock were protected and the breed, over time, was once again revitalized.

Classifications:
AKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs
CKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Working Group
FCI: Group 1
ANKC: Group 5 - Working Dogs