The Bouvier des Flandres was once one of many “Bouviers”, or cattle dogs found throughout Belgium and the Flanders region of France.  It is one of few breeds that officially has two countries of origin according to the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI).



 A large dog, the Bouvier des Flandres stands between 23-27 inches and weighs between 60-88 pounds.  They have an abundant double coat that is coarse to the touch and is “tousled” in appearance.  It is shorter on the top of head, but the breed has a full moustache and beard.  The most common coloring is a “salt and pepper” color of gray and black.  Solid black is accepted, but not preferred.  Other colors are accepted on the Bouvier des Flandres, including fawn and a gray brindle.


With the exception of its “cousin”, the nearly extinct Bouvier des Ardennes, the Bouvier des Flandres is the last survivor of a wide variety of cattle dogs throughout Belgium.  Each cattle dog was known to a specific region, and the Flandres originates from the Flanders are, both in Belgium and France, that share the same name.  There are no natural barriers to separate the two countries, and cowmen and drovers in both areas kept and developed this breed.  It is believed that the breed may have originally been created by crossing Griffons and the Beauceron. 
   
During WWI this cattle dog was used for rescue and as a message carrier.  This type of work, as well as the nearly total destruction of Flanders, brought them to the brink of extinction.  In 1923 the breed was reconstructed from a few surviving dogs to become the Bouvier des Flandres we know today.


The Bouvier des Flandres is an obedient dog that is quick to learn and fairly easy to train.  Calm and gentle, but should be socialized early to avoid over-protectiveness as well as shyness.  This breed enjoys children, but tolerance to other animals depends on the individual and socialization.  Generally they do will with other dogs, but some dominant individuals can be aggressive.  Bouvier des Flandres are suspicious of strangers and protective of their family making them excellent guard dogs.


Generally a hardy breed, the Bouvier des Flandres is rarely ill, however they may suffer from hip dysplasia or eye problems.  Their average lifespan is 10-12 years.

The Bouvier des Flandres is relatively inactive indoors and can adjust to apartment life provided it is regularly exercised.  They do best with a large yard with room to run, however long, daily walks can suffice.

The shaggy coat of a Bouvier des Flandres does require a lot of attention.  They need to be brushed regularly and trimmed at least three times yearly, more if it is shown.