The Bouvier des Flandres makes a great family pet for those wishing to keep a watchdog and watchdog combination. She can be relatively inactive indoors and can exercise through lots of walking. A better situation for her is a properly fenced exercise area. She is good with other dogs and pets, especially if she has been socialized with them from the start. She is generally good with children, but can have problems with her friends. Just as a reminder, never leave young children alone with a puppy or dog.
Approximate adult size
Approximate adult size (two years or older) of the male Bouvier des Flandres ranges from 24 to 28 inches at the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 75 to 90 pounds and females range from 22 to 27 inches at the withers. and 60 to 80 lbs.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health issues associated with that specific breed, and the Bouvier des Flandres is no exception. Watch for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus, the second leading killer of dogs, can kill in an hour, this space is too limited for a full explanation, but you should read about it). Feeding more than once a day and avoiding exercise right after meals can help protect against bloating.
Also be aware of canine hip dysplasia (genetic looseness in the hip that can lead to arthritic pain and lameness), laryngeal paralysis (muscular narrowing of the airways, especially during exercise), and eye problems. This list of diseases is only an informative guide. Other diseases can also be significant threats, contact your vet for a full list.
You should visit the vet several times during the first year for vaccinations, boosters, and checkups. Then, as an adult, he should visit the vet annually for vaccinations and checkups. As he gets older, starting at age six, he should visit the vet twice a year for checkups and vaccinations. Remember; Avoid giving your dog sweets.
Cleanliness
The Bouvier des Flandres has a wiry coat with a dense undercoat that requires a lot of attention. He needs to be brushed regularly, bathed infrequently, and professionally trimmed several times a year. It will also be necessary to trim the pads of your touch.
Their teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and a toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes plaque and tartar buildup that can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, bad breath, and other serious illnesses.
Toenails may need to be checked for growth and trimmed regularly. The toenails on the back grow more slowly than the toenails on the front. In general, a guillotine-style trimmer is best for this task, and competent instructions for accomplishing this can be found online.
Their ears should be checked once a week and kept clean. When you’ve got her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection are part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get into the dogs ears, and do not attempt to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have discharge, a foul odor, or appears to be in distress and you suspect an infection or tumor, see your vet.
Life expectancy
The Bouvier des Flandres can live for 10-12 years with proper nutrition, medical care, and excellent living conditions.
History
The Bouvier des Flandres originated in Flanders, Belgium, around the 16th century. They were bred to drive cattle and pull carts. The name Bouvier means oxen driver. They were almost lost during the First World War. They arrived in the United States around 1930. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1931.
some records
- American Club Bouvier des Flandres.
- UKC United Kennel Club
- NKC National Kennel Club
- CKC Continental Kennel Club
- APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
- AKC American Kennel Club
- FCI International Cynological Federation
- NZKC Kennel Club of New Zealand
- KCGB Kennel Club of Great Britain
- ANKC Australian National Kennel Club
- ACR American Canine Registry
litter size
5 to 10 Bouvier des Flandres puppies
Category
herding.
Terms to describe
Intelligent, trainable, powerful, agile, bold, energetic, intrepid, alert, bright, well-mannered, collected, calm, gentle
SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
- Very good watchdog.
- Very good watchdog.
- He will generally stay at home, not roam.
- Good with children, but maybe not with your friends.
- It can tolerate the cold.
SPECIAL BAD POINTS
- Can be aggresive with other dogs.
- High pain threshold. It is also difficult to know if they are suffering.
- She needs an experienced owner.
- Slow to mature.
- You may be suspicious of strangers.
Other names known for
Belgian Shepherd
Each dog is an individual, so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is only a good faith guide.