The Bouvier des Flandres' pastoral name— “Bouvier” is French for “cow chasing”—belies its posh and heroic history. Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and former President Ronald Reagan both owned Bouviers. This breed also performed military service during World Wars I and II — they pulled ambulances and located wounded soldiers. They are driven workers and fiercely devoted to their chosen people.
Originally from Belgium, 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 group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Herding |
| Origin | Belgium |
| Breed group | Herding |
| Average lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 86 |
| Family | Livestock, herding |
| Date of origin | 1600s |
| Original function | Cattle herding |
| Today's function | Security, herding trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 24.5-27.5 Weight: 69-90 |
| Average size of female | Height: 23.5-26.5 Weight: 69-90 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | High |
| Playfullness | Not very playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | High tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS BOUVIERS DES FLANDRES' PERSONALITY LIKE?
Bouviers des Flandres are loving, smart, and serene, but they're not especially playful. They are determined, brave, and calm dogs who thrive when given a purpose.
This breed is affectionate toward its chosen people but may be aloof toward strangers. Bouviers des Flandres do best when supervised with other dogs and make better companions for older children. With enough early socialization, they can be friendly with other pets and small animals.
WHAT IS BOUVIER DES FLANDRES BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This breed is very energetic, alert, and protective. The fearless Bouvier des Flandres can be somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A BOUVIER DES FLANDRES ?
Bouviers des Flandres can be challenging to train — this is an independent-minded and strong-willed dog. Start early and be patient and consistent with your furry friend. They require moderate daily exercise and excel in competitive dog sports, particularly herding trials.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DOES A BOUVIER DES FLANDRES SHED AND WHAT IS ITS GROOMING NEEDS?
Bouvier's medium-length double coat is thick and rough. This breed's beautiful coat grows constantly and needs regular brushing—think every other day—to prevent mats. Plan for frequent grooming. Their furry faces will be messy after eating or drinking, and his coat will pick up debris and dirt.
Bouviers des Flandres shed lightly and seasonally.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO BOUVIERS DES FLANDRES HAVE?
Bouviers des Flandres have been known to develop thyroid disease, glaucoma, hip dysplasia, and heart murmurs, but these are rare. This is usually a healthy breed.
Bouviers do tend toward obesity. Limit treats and feed your furry friend two smaller meals per day.
