The Bouvier des Flandres, also called the Flanders Cattle Dog, has been used for centuries as a farm dog. The muscular cattle dogs not only drove cattle, they herded sheep and pulled carts. A dog of many hats, the Bouvier des Flandres has also often worked as a police dog, guard dog, ambulance dog, messenger, tracking dog, and guide dog for the blind.
Here are the characteristics of the Bouvier des Flandres breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
The Bouvier des Flandres�s Behavior
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Recommended for: watch and guard dog, guide dog for the blind, family pet
Bred for guard duty, the Bouvier des Flandres breed is vigilant and protective. Yet Bouvier des Flandres dogs are often considered well-behaved and calm. As a herding breed, they appreciate plenty of physical activity and outdoor time.
Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.
Bouvier des Flandres�s Physical Characteristics
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- Size: Dogs: 24�-27� inches; Bitches: 23�-26� inches
- Coat: all-weather overcoat over a soft, dense undercoat
- Color: fawn, black, salt-and-pepper, gray, and brindle
- Eyes: oval-shaped, dark brown
- Ears: high
- Skull: flat, slightly less wide than long
- Muzzle: broad
- Nose: large, black, round-edged, with flared nostrils
- Tail: high-set, carried upward
Bouvier des Flandres�s Origins and History
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Country/Region of Origin: Belgium
Original purpose: Bouviers were used by the French for war efforts, from getting messages to the front to hauling equipment.
Name: French for "Herdsman of Flanders"; in Flemish, the breed is called Koehond or cattle dog. Also called: Flanders Cattle Dog, Vlaamse Koehond, Toucheur de Boeuf and Vuilbaard.
Historical notes: In World War I, the French used Bouviers de Flandres as messenger dogs and to haul equipment. By the end of the war, there were few Bouviers de Flandres left. A group of Belgians revived the Bouviers de Flandres breed. In WWII, Hitler ordered all Bouviers killed after one of them snapped at him and bit his hand. Another group of Belgians revived the breed after WWII.