Sweet, calm and laid-back is the best way to describe a Bouvier des Flandres’ temperament. They are gentle with children, friendly to cats and require a moderate amount of exercise. They are ideal family pets.110-bouvier-des-flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres was nearly forced to extinction during World War I but survived as a cattle dog. Their shaggy, rugged coat and playful eyes make them quite beautiful. They are loyal and devoted to their family and won’t want to leave your side so be prepared to share your comfy spot on the couch as well as your favourite blanket. They don’t like being left outdoors on their own.

When happy, they have a laid-back and calm temperament but new people beware, a Bouvier des Flandres will not be your best friend. They don’t want to share their family with you, and while not aggressive, they will be aloof and disinterested. Highly intelligent, your canine will quickly pick up on new commands and learn new tricks. However they have a stubborn streak so consistent training is best – not ideal for novice dog owners.

Fun fact: In French Ring Sport, a Bouvier des Flandres has to refuse

four items of food thrown at it. If a piece of food lands in its mouth

it must spit it out to win.

Affectionate and quiet, this breed is more likely to check up on you and give you a lick than a bark. They have average exercise needs and while they enjoy being a couch potato they do need a daily walk. Their sweet and serene personality means they are wonderful with children and will befriend other pets if socialised from a young age. Bouvier des Flandres shed moderately. Groom your pet by brushing it twice a week and pay attention to the beard as food and water tends to hide in there. Keep the coat matt-free.

Scheduled six-monthly health checks and visits to the vet are important to ensure your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. It’s important that together with your vet a preventative health care program is determined and maintained based on the individual needs of your canine companion. This females in this breed are prone to reproductive complications such as endometritis and ovarian cysts. Overall they are relatively healthy though and free from bone developmental issues.

Size

A large-sized breed weighing 35-40kgs with an average height of 59-68cms.

Space

A large dwelling is ideal, however they don’t need yard space as long as they are exercised enough. They enjoy being near their family.

Energy Levels

They have moderate energy levels. A daily run and lots of games will keep this dog happy.

Difficulty Of Training

They are intelligent dogs and can learn quickly, but show signs of stubbornness.

Family suitability

Great family pets, loyal companions and good watchdogs.

Suitability to other pets

If socialised from a young age, your dog will befriend other pets.

Need for company

They have a high need for company and enjoy being by their human’s side at all times.

Hypoallergenic dog breed?

Yes

Coat and grooming needs

This breed requires moderate maintenance. Brush three times a week, paying close attention to their beards and moustaches to ensure there is no leftover food stuck. Keep them matt-free. They have a medium long coat in black, fawn, brindle, grey and salt and pepper.

Shedding

Sheds moderately.

Tendency to bark

They have a low tendency to bark so don’t expect much noise.

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