Beaucerons are clever, powerful, gentle, and above all, intelligent. This brainy breed is well suited to search and rescue work, and almost all dog sports, including agility, rally, herding, obedience, and tracking. The French military used them to carry messages during World Wars I and II; many Beaucerons still serve as military, police, or family guard dogs.
Originally from France, this large-sized and high-energy breed can grow to between 70-110 pounds and lives an average of 10-12 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Herding breed group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Average lifespan | 10-12 years |
| AKC Ranking | n/a |
| Date of origin | 1500s |
| Origin | France |
| Area of origin | France |
| Original function | Herder, guardian |
| Today's function | Herder, guardian, police |
| Average size of female | Height: 24.5 - 26.5 Weight: 65 - 85 |
| Average size of male | Height: 25.5 - 27.5 Weight: 65 - 85 |
| Breed group | Herding |
| Breed's original pastime | Herding |
| Family | Herding |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | High |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Other name | Berger de Beauce, Bas-Rouge |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A BEAUCERON'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Beaucerons are very smart, somewhat playful, and can be affectionate. This breed can be family-friendly: they are deeply devoted and loving toward their chosen people. They may get along with other family dogs and pets, but they tend to be suspicious of strangers on either two or four legs. Their patience and vigilance make them reliable guardians, but Beaucerons (like all dogs) do better playing with supervised children.
WHAT IS BEAUCERON BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Beaucerons make attentive and protective watchdogs. They can be somewhat prone to barking. This is a very active, spirited, and athletic breed, so plan for regular and rigorous exercise. They also love to chew, so be sure to stock up on rugged and safe toys — and discourage any tendencies toward nipping or gnawing on you!
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A BEAUCERON?
Beaucerons are brilliant dogs — they excel at problem-solving, memory, and learning tasks. They're easy to train, but like many herding dogs, they'll be happiest and healthiest with a job to do. Bored Beaucerons are prone to destructive behaviors.
Start training early and be firm and consistent. Reward your furry friend with play, food, and praise.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO BEAUCERONS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Beaucerons have short, sleek double coats that are straight, coarse, and dense to the touch; their undercoats are equally dense. These dogs are frequent shedders who require weekly grooming. The Beauceron sheds twice a year; more frequent brushings during this time will help manage loose hair and keep furry tumbleweeds to a minimum. Bathe your buddy at least once a season.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO BEAUCERONS HAVE?
Like many larger dogs, Beaucerons can be susceptible to hip dysplasia. Keep an eye out for dermatomyositis, a hereditary condition that impacts the skin and muscles, and allergies as well.
