| AKC Group: | Herding |
| A.K.A.: | Flanders Cattle Dog |
| Functions: | Companion, Guard dog |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | Belgium |
| Life Span (yr): | 12 -13 |
| Colors: | Black, Gray, Brindle, Fawn, Salt and Pepper |
| Height (Inch): | 23.5 - 27.5 |
| Weight (lb): | 60 - 90 |
| Size: | Large |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: | |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
Muscular and solid in build, the Bouvier des Flandres is a great combination of ruggedness and style. He has a large head that is ornamented with a thick beard and a mustache. He has a bold, almost gruff expression. His eyes are shaped like ovals and are brown in color. They are framed by his bushy eyebrows. He has ears that are set high on his head. They can be left natural or cropped. If they are cropped, they are usually shaped like triangles. He has a strong neck that holds his head proudly. The Bouvier des Flandres has a ragged coat that will repel water and keep him warm.
Temperament:
The Bouvier des Flandres is calm breed of dog. In fact, it is difficult to force him to lose his composure, even in the most unusual or frightful situations. He is never hostile or timid. The Bouvier des Flandres is affectionate towards children and they are ideally situated for family life. However, for those with extremely young children, the Bouvier des Flandres can become rambunctious and could accidently injure a child. He does well with other pets, including cats, but may chase small animals like rabbits. He is extremely faithful and obedient to his master, especially if he is trained as a puppy.
Health:
As a large dog, the Bouvier des Flandres has certain health concerns that are common to all breeds of dogs of equivalent size. First, he should not be fed a high protein diet. It could cause him to grow too fast and cause problems with his bones, muscles, and tendons later in life. In fact, a dog food that is designed specifically for large dogs is recommended for the Bouvier des Flandres. He should also not partake in strenuous exercise as a puppy. If he strains his muscles, it could be painful. In addition, he could easily become overheated, especially in warmer climates.
Maintenance:
The Bouvier des Flandres needs to follow a grooming schedule to keep him looking great. He has a thick undercoat that can easily form mats unless it is thoroughly brushed a few times each day. In addition, it is important to keep his nails trimmed and to clip the fur from the area near the pads of his paws. His ears should be cleaned with a cleanser and his teeth should be brushed to remove tartar and plaque. The Bouvier des Flandres is relatively active and likes to go for walks or jogs. If he can, he likes to go out for a run every day for at least an hour at a time.