Bouvier Des Flandres
Description
The first to ever breed the Bouvier Des Flanders were the monks at the Ter Duinen Monastery in Flanders. They are a fine meld of Irish Wolfhounds, and some of the local farm dogs from that area. The Bouvier is a tireless working dog who can both herd and protect the flock, and in some instances was used as draft animals pulling carts to market. Strong and even tempered is the Bouvier. The male Bouvier stands between 23 and 28 in tall, and the female between 22 and 27 in. The Bouvier male weighs between 75 and 90 lbs and the female between 60 and 80 lbs. He has a full beard and bushy brows which is distinctive of the breed, and a course coat that will remind you of a Brillo pad and not fur. The Bouvier comes in black, fawn, brindle, gray, and blonde, and sometimes a little white on the chest in all colors.
Temperament
The Bouvier Des Flanders is a natural born protector of his family, and will meet any challenge head on. They need no special training for this, and it is not something you can un teach them. Well manured with a sweet nature the Bouvier has a very intimidating appearance and makes a wonderful watchdog, and guarddog. They can be trained quite easily and once they learn a lesson they never forget it. Early socialization with this breed is important, as well as having a strong pack leader to train them. They make great family dog, or companion dogs and love children.
Grooming/Exercise
The Bouvier will need to see a professional groomer at least 3 times per year to trim his course coat. In between visits to the groomer you will need to keep up with regular brushing and combing of his coat to keep it healthy, bathing only when needed…also removing any excess hair growing in the ear and keep the fur around the feet trimmed as well as in between the pads. The Bouvier need to have a daily walk or if you train him early on can run alongside you while you go for a bike ride. The Bouvier can live in a apartment as long as his exercise needs are met.
Health
Life Expectancy is 10 to 12 years.
Possible Issues
- Cataracts
- Hip Dysplasia
- High Pain Threshold (not good when trying to diagnose a problem)
