Belgian Cattle Dog, Flanders Cattle Dog, Vlaamse Koehond
Overview
This is a versatile breed able to perform a variety of functions, including cattle herder, draft dog and guard. As such, it combines great strength with agility and endurance. The bouvier is a compact, short-coupled dog, of square proportion and rugged appearance. Its gait is free, bold and proud. Its weatherproof coat is tousled and double, with a fine undercoat and a harsh, dry outer coat. It is trimmed (if necessary) to a length of about 2.5 inches. The head is accentuated by a beard and moustache, which adds to the dog's bold and alert expression.
The bouvier is a steady, stalwart companion that is loyal, devoted, fearless and protective. Given daily exercise, it is calm and well-mannered indoors, but ready for an adventure in the great outdoors. It is independent and confident of its own judgment, yet biddable and willing to please. It can be domineering. It is reserved, even protective, toward strangers and can be aggressive with strange dogs. It is very good with children, although it may nip at heels in play.
| Size | Large |
| Height | Male: 23-28 inches (58-71 cm)Female: 22-27 inches (56-69 cm) |
| Weight | Males 75-110 pounds (34-50 kg)Female: 60-80 pounds (27-36 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Colors | Black Brindle Fawn Gray Brindle Pepper & Salt |
| Origin | Belgium |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
The Bouvier des Flandres will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable dog breed for kids. It is also friendly toward other pets and friendly toward strangers. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
The Bouvier Des Flandres is a fairly energetic dog that will require a good long daily walk or run. They should not be made to run during the younger years of development though. This could cause issues with muscle and skeletal growth. |
| Trainability |
Moderately Easy Training: Training for the Bouvier Des Flandres is no arduous task. The breed is quite intelligent and will remember any command that is learned for the rest of their life. A firm and consistent pack leader is a necessity with this breed. Obedience school is recommended at a young age to assist in ensuring that it is very clear who the boss is. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
High Maintenance: Grooming should be performed often to keep the dog's coat in good shape. Professional groomers can be sought after for assistance. Professional trimming or stripping needed. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: Expect this dog to shed regularly. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |