Bouvier des Flandres

Toucher, Vlaamse Koehond
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Bouvier des Flandres is a Belgian farm dog known for its loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. They are large dogs with a distinctive, rugged appearance and require consistent training, exercise, and socialization.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Flanders, Belgium, as a farm dog for herding cattle, driving, and guarding.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female23.5-26.5 inches60-80 pounds
Male24.5-27.5 inches75-110 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Fawn
  • Black
  • Salt & Pepper
  • Brindle
  • Gray
Type
  • Double coat
Length
  • Medium-long

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Regular
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Large, strong, and well-proportioned
Skull
  • Broad and flat
Ears
  • High-set, can be cropped or natural, triangular
Eyes
  • Dark, oval-shaped, expressive
Nose
  • Black, large
Muzzle
  • Powerful, strong, and broad
Teeth
  • Strong, white
Neck
  • Strong, muscular
Forequarters
  • Powerful, muscular, and well-developed
Fore Legs
  • Straight, strong
Hindquarters
  • Strong, muscular
Hind Legs
  • Straight, strong
Feet
  • Round, compact, strong
Tail
  • Docked or natural
Gait
  • Smooth, powerful, and balanced

Temperament

  • Intelligent, loyal, and protective, often described as calm and gentle.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very affectionate
Good with Children
  • Good with children when properly socialized
Good with Dogs
  • Can be good with other dogs with proper socialization
Good with Cats
  • Can be good with cats when properly socialized
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved, can be aloof
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Highly protective
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Herding cattle, guarding, carting, family companion, police work

Exercise Needs

  • High; daily walks, runs, and mental stimulation are essential.

Health

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia, Bloat, Eye issues (cataracts, glaucoma)
  • thyroid issues, subaortic stenosis
  • cancer

Additional Notes

  • Requires a firm and consistent owner
  • Needs early socialization and training
  • Can be prone to over eating

References