🐾 Quick History
The Bouvier des Flandres, also known as Vlaamse Koehond or Flanders Cattle Dog, is a working dog breed originating from Flanders, a region located between Belgium and France. Traditionally, this dog has been used to drive cattle, assist farmers and breeders, as well as guard properties. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, where it was used for its exceptional abilities to work in rural environments, protect herds, and assist in plowing fields.
The Bouvier des Flandres has been recognized for its working skills, but it has also become an excellent companion dog due to its calm and protective temperament. It nearly disappeared during World War II, but the breed was saved through conservation efforts. Today, it is valued as a guard dog, working dog, and companion.
🐕 Breed Portrait
The Bouvier des Flandres is a robust dog, medium to large in size, with a strong bone structure and developed musculature. Its dense and thick coat is often fawn, gray, or black, with a texture of long, curly hair that requires regular grooming. Its head is broad and expressive, with a square muzzle and characteristic beard, giving it a noble and intelligent appearance.
The Bouvier des Flandres is appreciated for its energy and calm temperament. It is a versatile dog that excels in many roles, whether as a working dog, guard dog, or companion. It is particularly valued for its loyalty and dedication to its owners.
🔍 In brief
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Weight: 27-40 kg
- Height: 60-70 cm
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
- Physical exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
❤️ Personality & compatibility
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Compatibility:
- With children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- With animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- With strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- In an apartment: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
> Good to know: The Bouvier des Flandres is a calm and reliable dog at home, but it also excels in tasks requiring discipline and work. It is important to keep it mentally and physically stimulated.
🛠 Hygiene & care
- Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 800-1500 €
- Average annual cost: €450-950 (food, veterinary care, accessories)
💡 Fun fact: The Belgian Sheepdog is sometimes called "the dog of Flanders" due to its deep connection with the region. Its role as a working dog and protector has made it a true symbol of the area.
