Bouvier des Flandres Information

The legacy of the Bouvier has produced many admirable qualities in this breed.

• He is a square, powerfully built dog, rugged and formidable in appearance. His harsh double coat protects him in all types of weather; his keen sense of smell and watchful gaze make him a most suitable farm dog. (He thrives on plenty of room to work and exercise, but he is not an "outdoor dog"; he must live with his loving people -- his "flock," his "pack".)
• He is agile, alert and intelligent, with character of great spirit and fearlessness; yet, he is serene in disposition, and has an even temperament.

Today, the Bouvier des Flandres acts as a farm dog, family friend, protector, shepherd, and guide dog for the blind or hearing impaired. His intelligence, sense of threat discrimination and keen scent qualifies many Bouviers to excel in police work, tracking and drug detection. Owning a Bouvier, like many dogs, requires patience, love, a lot of grooming, a willingness to exercise the dog and pay for regular health care, a desire to have a companion who follows you around the house keeping an eye on you, and a commitment to complete at least one set of good obedience classes.
Source: History of the Bouvier des Flandres - Origin: Belgium

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Resources

Photo: American Kennel Club

Official American Kennel Club Bouvier des Flanders standard.

AKC Breed Standard

Illustration: Lyn St. Clair

Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier

Read the full article

Photographer: M. Hieronimus-Dimercurio

Get connected to Preservation Breeders and our rescue partner the American Bouvier Rescue League.

Find a Bouvier

Get access to:

• Links to all Bouvier Education Online Chats
  
• Upcoming AKC Judge Seminars
  
• Breeder Judges
• Breed Mentors

Bouvier Education

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Bouvier Pedigree Database

An online Bouvier Pedigree Database with 95,930 entries. Check out the website at www.bouvierpedigrees.com/
Provided by Jenarae Bouviers

Articles of Interest

- Function and Purpose of the Bouvier
- Beginner's Guide to the Bouvier des Flandres
- How to Select a Breeder
- What About a Rescue Dog?
- How to Read a Pedigree
- Selecting Your Bouvier Puppy

Magazines & Books

Dirty Beards Quarterly Magazine
Official ABdFC publication.

The Dogs of Flandres Fields
By Jim Engel.
Buy direct on Angel Place.
 
Bouvier des Flandres
By Claire McLean.
Available for purchase on Amazon.

U.S. Presidential Pet Museum