The Bouvier des Flandres is a dog breed originating in Flanders. The exact origins of this breed are unknown. It may have been formed by crossing the Griffon and the “beauceron”. They were originally used for farm work including cattle droving, sheep herding, cart pulling. They were also used as guard dogs, police dogs, and security dogs. Bouviers were extensively used as message-carrier during World War I. As a result of his exposure during the warfare and the nearly total destruction of Flandres; the Bouvier des Flandres was almost completely killed off. A group of dog enthusiasts from Belgium stepped in and successfully bred the Bouviers back to healthy numbers. In World War II, the Bouvier again faced extinction. This time the reason  wasn’t the war. Adolf Hitler wanted a breed of guard dog for the Third Reich and he had heard of the Bouvier's strengths and abilities. But the Bouvier snapped at him and biting his hand, when he reached out his hand, therefore Hitler decreed that all Bouviers were to be killed on sight. Once more the people of Belgium successfully re-established the breed.

Appearance

The Bouvier is an intelligent breed, powerfully built compact rough coated dog of rugged appearance. This breed has a high prey drive and well developed character. They are excellent watchdogs and guard dogs and easy to train because they learn commands relatively fast. However, they can also be stubborn dogs and the owner must be in control to ensure discipline is maintained. This breed is an ideal family pet because Bouviers have stable temperaments and amiable dispositions. They always want to protect their home and family. Bouviers are normally good with other dogs and household pets if they are raised with them from puppyhood. They are slightly reserved and suspicious with strangers, but they are never aggressive. The Bouvier is an active dog, who likes to go for long walks. The Bouvier des Flandres will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard. The head size, whilst big, is accentuated by the beard and moustache. The expression is bold and alert. The eyes should be slightly oval and as dark as possible in relation to coat. The eye rims are black without lack of pigment. The ears are set on high, very flexible and triangular in shape. The nose is black, large and well developed. The teeth are strong, white and healthy. The neck must be well muscled and strong. The front legs are muscular and perfectly straight. The chest is broad and deep. The feet must be short, round and compact with well-arched toes and thick, hard pads. This breed has a double coat: The outer hairs are rough and harsh, with the undercoat being fine, soft and dense. Bouviers come in black, fawn, brindle, salt and pepper and grey. Some may have white on the chest. Height/Weight: Height: Dogs 23-28 inches (58-71cm) Bitches 22-27 inches (56-69 cm.) Weight: Dogs 75-90 pounds (34-41) kg Bitches 60-80 pounds (27-36kg.). This breed has a life span of 10 – 12 years.

Grooming

Bouviers should be groomed three times a week, because  the shaggy coat requires a lot of attention. Bathing only when necessary. It is important to ensure the undercoat is kept matt-free for the comfort of the dog. The outer coat should be stripped at least twice a year during their moulting seasons. A well-groomed Bouvier sheds very little hair in the home.