Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres belongs to the large family of Bouviers, dogs intended for guarding herds of large cattle.

It is generally believed that the Bouvier des Flandres breed originated in Spain and was brought to Flanders during the Spanish occupation of Flanders. The breed was not recognized until 1912. After the First World War, it was necessary to reconstitute the herd, which had been largely decimated during the occupation of Flanders. In 1960, an agreement between Belgian and French breeders made it possible to definitively set the criteria for the breed. In addition to an uncommon physical strength, this dog has qualities of intelligence that allow it to serve as a guard dog, defense and police dog and tracking dog.

He is a very loyal dog, very attached both to his master and to the rest of the family. He is resistant, always alert and courageous, of an even behavior. Intelligent, he likes to work and shows sensitivity. It is generally a sociable animal which, provided that it has been accustomed to the presence of cats from a very young age, will get along well with them and its peers. With children, he usually forms a good association. He looks at strangers with suspicion and is very protective of his family, his loyalty is renowned. He needs a well-balanced training that remains consistent in its principles. Less lively than the German Shepherd, the Bouvier des Flandres nevertheless learns new orders relatively quickly, and once acquired, he will remember them for a long time. He needs moderate physical activity and will enjoy long walks or a short trot alongside a bike.