Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres (BOO-vee-ay duh Flaun-druh) was originally a farm dog from the area of Flanders in Belgium. There he performed the work of herding cattle and guiding them to the marketplace. He also hauled milk and butter to town in carts. Some of his early names were Dirty Beard, Cow Dog, and Cattle Driver.

Bouviers are big and big-hearted. They are strong and can think for themselves.

The Bouvier is protective. He can sometimes be suspicious of other dogs. While he's not overly active in the house, he does need plenty of exercise. Country or suburban living suits him well.

The Bouvier's coat protects him in all sorts of weather. It has a tousled appearance--it looks like it's been blown around by the wind. His color is usually black or gray, but Bouviers can also be fawn, brindle (tan with black stripes), or salt and pepper. The tail is docked.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Powerfully built, rough-coated, and rugged. Agile, spirited, and bold, yet serene and well-behaved; intelligent, active, fearless.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height--males, 24 1/2 to 27 1/2 inches at withers; females, 23 1/2 to 26 1/2 inches.

Fun Facts

During World War I, the Germans invaded Flanders and Belgium. Many Bouviers helped their owners escape from the Germans by guarding and protecting them. Though some dogs had to be left behind, others were smuggled out. They went to work in the Belgian army as guard dogs, ambulance pullers, and messengers. Today's Bouviers work as herders, police dogs, and assistance dogs for the handicapped, as well as gentle family companions.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.