Bouvier des Flandres

Bouvier des Flandres are relatively hardy dogs, but as with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. The breed is particularly predisposed to laryngeal paralysis, which can result in noisy breathing and difficulty breathing.

The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

As puppies, exercise should be carefully controlled, as this is going to be a relatively heavy adult. Once fully grown the Bouvier will require two hours minimum of daily walking and running exercise, with training, puzzle solving and games on top. Used to working all day, the Bouvier who does not get sufficient mental and physical exercise will be unhappy, and certainly won’t be a joy to live with either!

As a big dog with a protective nature, this is a breed better suited to a larger home and rural or suburban location as they are likely to find busy, urban environments over stimulating and stressful. Whilst the Bouvier does not shed, they need frequent grooming to prevent matting and this will take time and space. A secure garden is vital, as is access to a variety of safe walking routes and secure spaces for off lead fun.

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Bouvier is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

This breed has an abundant, coarse outer coat that should be kept at about 6cm long. The undercoat is close and dense. Bouviers should be groomed at least three times a week with particular attention being paid to their beards and moustaches to ensure they are kept free of food. It is important to ensure the undercoat is kept mat-free for the comfort of the dog. The outer coat should be stripped at least twice a year during their moulting seasons.

The Bouvier des Flandres is a very trainable dog, as long as you take the time to build a bond with them and be kind, fair and consistent. They have worked as cattle and sheep herders, pulled carts, guided the blind and assisted police, so its fair to say they are a versatile and intelligent breed.

This is a dog who will enjoy some form of training most days, as an activity in its own right rather than just a means to an end, and they won’t appreciate being left alone or separated from their family for long. Easily capable of a variety of dog sports though possibly a little large and heavy to really excel in some, the Bouvier could be a fun companion for someone who wants to have a go at a selection of canine activities. Work hard on early socialisation to other animals and children, and install a solid recall as the Bouvier may take some persuasion to return and stop herding up stray people!

For the family with time and space, the Bouvier can make an excellent companion, however keep in mind the grooming requirements are high and a full brush through can take an hour every other day. Like many herding/droving breeds, the Bouvier can be distressed by members of their social group splitting up. With smaller children the temptation to round them up and keep them together may be too strong to resist. Small children generally don’t enjoy being rounded up so this may be a dog for the family with older children or teenagers.

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.