Bouviers des Flanders

One of America's rarer breeds is the Bouvier des Flandres, a hars-coated dog whose wiry hair is so thick the skin can hardly be seen when the hairs are separated by the hand. He has a short, strong, straight back; broad, square hindquarters and ears that stand erect. He’s an ancient cattle and as a farm helper for hundreds of years. 

Official records go back only to 1910, however, when the Societe Royale St. Hubert recognised the breed after it had appeared at the International show in Brussels. A standard was adopted in 1912.

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Interest in the breed developed that were four contemperaneous cattle dogs, varying in size, coat and colour, but it was decided that the Bouvier des Flandres, standing 22 ¾ to 27 ½ inches, was the oldest. The standard called for colour ranging from fawn to black and included a pepper and salt mixture. 

A revised, more comprehensive standard was adopted in Belgium in 1923 and is the one the A.K.C subsequently recognised. The dog’s popularity began spreading in the 1920s, with breeders building on the remnants of stock left from te havoc of World War I. The Bouvier’s appearance in the United States wasn’t until the late 1930s. Progress was interrupted by World War II with the cessation of breeding stock, but is building up again. 

Since the Bouvier is mainly a working dog, one ot the breed cannot achieve the title “Champion” in Belgium until it also has taken a price in competitions either a police, defence or army dog. Bouviers were once known as Vuilbaards, koe honds and toucheurs de boeuf (cattle drivers).

Characteristic of Bouviers Des Flanders

Excellent housedog if sufficient space; very good with children and with other pets; good guard dog; easily trained.
Color: Jet-black with russet-brown or deep-tan markings.
Coat type: Soft and silky, long and slightly wavy; needs regular brushing.
Height: Dog 23-27 1/2 in, bitch 21-26 in.
Exercise: Needs quite a lot to keep healthy.

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