ADDITIONAL BOUVIER DES FLANDRES PICTURES
Family: Herding
Breed Group: Herding, AKC Herding
Origin: Belgium
Date of Origin: Late 19th Century
Originally used for: Cattle droving, sheep herding, Guard dog
Used today: Companion
Other Name(s): Belgian Cattle Dog, Vlaamse Koehond
History of the Breed: There is no real agreement concerning the origin of this Franco-Belgian breed. The name, Bouvier des Flandres
translates from the French as "cow herder" or "ox herder" from Flandre. It may have been formed by crossing the Griffon and the Beauceron.
Originally a cattle herding dog, it was extensively used as a rescue dog and message-carrier during World War I. As a result of exposure
during the warfare and the nearly total destruction of Flandres; the breed was in danger of extinction. In 1923 the
Bouvier was re-introduced from a few individuals, and a breed club was established in Belgium. Today the Bouvier serves as a watchdog,
guardian, family companion and as a tracking dog. This breed has also been used as a guide for the blind and in search & rescue. This breed
also does well with police work, military work, carting, agility, competitive obedience, and schutzhund.
General Appearance: Compact, athletic dog with square skull, penetrating expression and rough-coated weather impervious coat.
Height & Weight:
Height 23.5-27.5
Weight 65-90 Pounds
Coat: Soft dense and fine undercoat with harsh outercoat
Color: Fawn to black, salt and pepper, grizzled or wheaten
Grooming needs: High
Temperament of Breed: A great family dog, calm and gentle. He can be dominant around other dogs so early socialization is important.
Friendly with children: Yes
Friendly with other dogs: Yes, with proper socialization starting at a young age.
Suitability as a watchdog: Yes
Exercise Level: Medium
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Hip dysplasia, thyroid issues, autoimmune issues, subaortic senosis, bloat
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 11-12 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 86
First Registered by the AKC: 1931
Registries: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
The American Bouvier des Flandres Club (ABdFC)
Bouvier des Flandres Club of Canada
British Bouvier Association
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