The Bouvier des Flandres makes a great family pet for those who would like to have a watch dog and guard dog combination. She can be relatively inactive indoors and can be exercised via many walks. A better situation for her is a properly fenced in exercise area. She is good with other dogs and pets, especially if she has been socialized with them early on. She is generally good with children but may have a problem with their friends. Just as a reminder, never leave young children alone with any puppy or dog.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Bouvier des Flandres ranges from 24 to 28 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 75 to 90 pounds and the females run from 22 to 27 inches to the withers and 60 to 80 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Bouvier des Flandres is no exception. Be on the look out for bloat (Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, the second leading killer of dogs, can kill within the hour, this space is too limited for a complete explanation but you should read up on this). Feeding more then once a day and avoiding exercise right after meals may help guard against bloat.

Also be aware of canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Laryngeal Paralysis (muscular narrowing of the airway especially during exercise) and eye problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Bouvier des Flandres has a rough coat with a dense undercoat that requires plenty of attention. She needs to be brushed regularly, bathed infrequently and trimmed professionally several times a year. The pads of her feel will need to be trimmed also.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. When you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Life Span

The Bouvier des Flandres can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Bouvier des Flandres originated from Flanders, Belgium around the sixteenth century. They were bred to drive cattle and pull carts. The name Bouvier means driver of oxen. They were almost lost during World War I. They came to the United States around 1930. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1931.

Some Registries