Bouvier Des Flandres Overview

The Bouvier des Flandres is a large dog that knows self-control. Some weigh upwards of 100 lbs, but they still make great household pets. 

While they are certainly not ideal for small apartments or town homes, they still make for a highly manageable dog. Exercise requirements are fairly high, which is understandable for an all-around farm dog. Daily walks or vigorous play sessions are necessary to keep this breed occupied and healthy. 

By simply looking at this dog, it is apparent that grooming requirements are higher than average. Combing is necessary twice per week, and shaping, either by stripping or clipping the fur, is needed four times per year. 

As a relatively obscure breed, it may be difficult or expensive to acquire based on where a prospective owner lives. The Bouvier des Flandres is an ideal pet for an active household, and the breed as a whole has no glaring deficiencies.

Bouvier Des Flandres History

In 17^th century Belgium, merchants needed a herding dog that could drive cattle over the wide farmlands near the French border. The name Bouvier means “cowherd” in French, and the region the breed most commonly worked was Flanders; so the name Bouvier des Flandres means literally “The Cowherd of Flanders.” 

Although the breed’s primary function was cattle drover, it functioned on a number of levels, making it invaluable on a farm. They were guards of livestock and land, and they were also draft dogs. 

Unlike most dogs, they were a favored breed because of their talents, not for their looks. There were multiple variations of the breed until 1912, when French dog enthusiasts established a breed standard. With the arrival of World War I, however, the established breed nearly became extinct. 

Another standard was created in 1922 as the breed’s population recovered from the war. The Bouvier des Flandres gained popularity when it arrived in the U.S. in the 1930s, but it never became a household name. Today the breed is relatively obscure outside the show ring. Inside, it is a much revered competitor.

Bouvier Des Flandres Character

The Bouvier des Flandres is a breed that forms strong connections with its owner. It is a fearless, affectionate, and protective dog that handles itself well. 

It is energetic and adventurous outdoors, but reserved and polite indoors. That is, of course, as long as its exercise requirements are met. While this may be a problem, there is nothing particularly bad about this breed becoming bored and destructive, as it is a quality held by all working dogs. 

While it can sometimes be stubborn, it is generally easy to please and moderately easy to train. Around strangers, this breed is restrained but protective of its owner. Domineering tendencies are typical around other dogs, but it tolerates other family pets. 

This is a very gentle dog when it comes to children, although it tends to herd them while playing. It is best to separate its time between the yard and home, because it needs to participate in family activities as well as exercise itself. 

While the Bouvier des Flandres comes with a few needs, it is a generally biddable and adaptable dog.

Bouvier Des Flandres Care

Having a long and shaggy coat, the Bouvier Des Flandres requires much maintenance in the grooming field. Needing to be trimmed at least three times a year to prevent any matts or tangles, this breed should also be brushed on a daily basis. If properly groomed, this breed will shed little hair.

Bouvier Des Flandres Training

Consistent training is a must for this large and sometimes stubborn breed. Requires firm training. A quick learner, the Bouvier Des Flandres makes an excellent guard dog and is generally easy to train.

Bouvier Des Flandres Health

Common Health Issues for the Bouvier Des Flandres:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Bouvier Des Flandres:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Bouvier Des Flandres Resources