The Bouvier des Flandres is a dog breed originating in Flanders. They are used for general farm work including cattle droving, sheep herding, cart pulling, and as guard dogs, police dogs, and security dogs, as well as being kept as pets. It can be noted that usage of the French name (meaning, literally, "Herdsman of Flanders") is contradictory with the Flemish origin of the breed; in Flemish, they are known as Koehond, or cattle dog. Other names for the breed are Toucheur de Boeuf (cattle driver) and Vuilbaard (dirty beard).
Appearance
The Bouvier is a powerfully built compact rough coated dog of rugged appearance. He gives the impression of size and strength without clumsiness or heaviness. Perhaps his most notable feature is his impressive head which is accentuated by a heavy beard and mustache. The ears and tail of the Bouvier are sometimes cropped, though several countries have outlawed such practices. Their weight range from 80 to 100 pounds or 36 to 45 kilograms; they are powerfully built, with a thick double coat, which can be fawn, black, grey brindle, or "pepper and salt" in color. Bouviers are sometimes considered non-shedding, but in fact do lose a small amount of hair. Most of the hair that they lose is caught within the double coat which results in matting. They require weekly brushing and combing to maintain the coat. In addition to weekly brushing, the coat should be trimmed by either the owner or a groomer approximately every 6-8 weeks if it is to be a show-dog. Such trimming requires some practice to achieve the proper look.
Temperament
Bouvier des Flandres are rational, gentle, loyal, and protective in nature. The breeds unique blend of characteristics makes them ideal family pets, as well as keen guard dogs. Unlike many animals bred for basic aggressive nature and power, the Bouvier des Flandres possess sophisticated traits, such as complex control, intelligence, and accountability. A rare inherent quality of the breed is its ability to recognize between aggressive and non-aggressive behavior and re-act accordingly.