Description

The Bouvier des Flandres is a powerfully built, compact, rough-coated dog of rugged appearance. The Bouvier des Flandres is agile, spirited and bold in a calm and steady manner. The Bouvier des Flandres is easy going but aloof, and they can sometimes be serious or moody. His herding instincts will keep him close to home. Generally used in police work and helping the blind, they loves the company of people.

Size of Male: Height: 24.5-27.5 inches Weight: 69-90 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 23.5-26.5 inches Weight: 69-90 pounds

Temperament

The Bouvier des Flandres is an obedient dog with a pleasant nature. The Bouvier des Flandres looks intimidating, but is actually calm and gentle. Bouvier des Flandres are enthusiastic, responsible, even tempered and fearless. An excellent guard and watchdog that is easy to train. This breed needs an experienced owner to prevent dominance problems. He should be socialized well at an early age to avoid over-protectiveness and shyness. A good family dog, the Bouvier des Flandres likes, and is excellent with children. The Bouvier des Flandres is very adaptable and goes about its business quietly and calmly. This dog’s loyalty is world famous. Behavior with other animals depends on individual temperaments and character. Provided they are properly socialized at an early age, chances are they will get along well with cats and other pets, but be careful with non-canine pets. They are usually good with other dogs if they are raised with them from puppyhood. Slow to mature both in body and mind. It does not fully mature until the dog reaches the age of 2-3 years. They can be suspicious and reserved with strangers and protective of their family.

Living Conditions

The Bouvier des Flandres will do ok in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Bouvier des Flandres are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard. The large yard can help the Bouvier des Flandres to exercise more as they are relatively inactive indoors and prevent boredom.

Upkeep

The Bouvier des Flandres is not a breed that can be put aside until the mood strikes to play with it. Bouvier des Flandres needs daily exercise and daily interaction, and a lot of both. Bouvier des Flandres loves the chance to herd, but its requirements can also be met with a good jog, a very long walk or a vigorous play session. It can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates. It makes a good house dog, however, and would prefer access to both house and yard. Its harsh coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus scissoring and shaping (clipping for pets and stripping for show dogs) about every three months.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, heart issues, glaucoma

Minor concerns: Hypothyroidism

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years