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Bouvier des Flandres
Breed origin: Europe
Original purpose: Cattle herder and general farmer's helper, including cart pulling.
AKC recognized: 1931
AKC group: Herding
Size:
Weight: males 100 to 120 lbs;
females slightly less
Size: Height: males 24½ to 27½ inches;
females 23½ to 26½ inches
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Color: From fawn to black, passing through salt and pepper, gray and brindle.
Life span: 10 to 15 years.
General characteristics/temperament: The Bouvier des Flandres is agile, alert, spirited and bold, yet serene and equable, steady, resolute, and fearless. They make a good watchdog and family guardian, and also do well as a tracking dog and a guide dog for the blind. Due to their size and strength, early and consistent socialization and training are essential. The Bouvier's shaggy coat and and love of playing in water and mud make them unsuitable for fastidious housekeepers.
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Good with cats? No
Good watchdog? Yes
Protective? Yes
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Intelligent? Yes
Energy/Activity Level: Low
Suitable canine sports/activities: tracking, cart pulling, guide dog
Exercise requirement: Long walk or jog daily.
Grooming requirement: Short grooming sessions daily, or longer ones twice a week to prevent matting. The longer, harsh guard hairs of the outercoat tend to keep the shedding undercoat from falling all over the floor, but they will become matted easily if not brushed frequently.
Known health problems: Gastric dilatation volvulus, hip dysplasia, eye problems, hypothyroidism.
Additional photos of Bouvier des Flandres
Recommended books for further reading:Show more books
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
American Bouvier des Flandres Club
Wikipedia breed information page
American Bouvier Rescue League
DogBreedMatch
