The Bouvier is a powerfully built compact rough coated dog of rugged appearance. It gives the impression of size and strength without clumsiness or heaviness. Perhaps its most notable feature is the impressive head which is accentuated by a heavy beard and mustache. The ears and tail of the Bouvier are traditionally cropped. The weight of males ranges from 100 to 120 pounds or 45 to 55 kilograms, slightly smaller for females. They are powerfully built, with a thick double coat, which can be fawn, black, grey brindle, or "pepper and salt" in color. Bouviers are sometimes considered non-shedding, but in fact do lose hair, like all dogs. Most of the hair that they lose is caught within the double coat which results in matting. They require weekly brushing and combing to maintain the coat. In addition to weekly brushing, the coat should be trimmed approximately every 3-5 weeks if it is to be a show-dog. Trimming requires practice to achieve the proper look.
Bouvier des Flandres are rational, gentle, loyal, and protective in nature. The breed's unique blend of characteristics makes them good family pets, as well as keen guard dogs. Unlike many animals bred for basic aggressive nature and power, the Bouvier des Flandres possess sophisticated traits, such as complex control, intelligence, and accountability.
There are several health concerns to consider with all pure-bred dogs, the Bouvier des Flandres is no exception. As with most large breeds, hip dysplasia is the most prevalent, which is the malformation of the ball and socket of the hip joint. As it can be passed on to puppies from the parents, responsible breeders screen for this by x-raying their breeding stock and certifying them "clear".
Elbow dysplasia, heart conditions and thyroid problems are more common. The only way to prevent them is by genetic testing BOTH parents. Many of these problems can be tested for and certified clear with different organizations. Ask to see health certificates.
Bloat and gastric torsion involves a twisting of the stomach. It is seen in large deep bodied breeds of dogs. There are many guidelines to feeding you dog, but to date there is no known cause or solution for the problem.
Eye problems such as cataracts, entropion and glaucoma are also known to be hereditary and appear in the breed. Eye checks are used to screen for these problems and yearly clearance and certification from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) at Purdue University.
Although most breeders will perform genetic health tests to help minimize the risk of passing on any problems, sometimes something unforeseen will happen in a puppy. Be sure that your contact with the breeder covers genetic problems that may occur and what the breeder is willing to do in terms of guarantee.
