Bouvier des Flandres: The Guard Dog
Once you take a look at a Bouvier you will feel intimidated because of its rugged look. But if you get the chance to own one, they can be calm and gentle. The mere presence of the thick double coat that leaves a strong impression of being strong can be deceiving at times.
It is said that the monks from Ter Duinen monastery were the first breeders of the Bouvier. Irish wolfhounds and local farm dogs were used to create the modern Bouvier breed. The obtained predecessor is said to have emerged as a working dog tirelessly assisting herding and cattle jobs.
As opposed to the intimidating look that the Bouviers create, these dogs are gentle and calm. They are also perceived as smart because they can be easily trained and quite fast with learning. Once they become familiar with a certain command, they will remember it for as long as they live.
It is said that the monks from Ter Duinem monastery made the first move to have the modern Bouvier des Flandres. They used the Irish wolfhounds and the local farm dogs to produce the cross bred offspring. These modern Bouviers are said to be effective farm companions as they make a hardworking assistant.
During the First World War, the Bouviers served as the messenger dog as well as the ambulance dog. With their distinguished working ability, they play an important role during the warfare. This led to the decrease of their population that nearly reached extinction.
Male Bouviers are heavier than the females. They can weigh as much as 55 kilograms and reach a maximum height of 28 inches. Females on the other hand can weigh at about 36 kilograms and can be as high as 27 inches. The numbers of offspring that a female can have in a regular pregnancy cycle are 8-10 with a maximum life span of 12 years.
These dogs love to go out and do a lot of walking or running. However, when doing the regular exercise with them, you have to take the lead to show that you are dominant. They can be obedient but once abused by power of authority they might be aggressive as well.
Bouvier des Flandres is a very active dog that may need an average exercise like doing the long brisk walks regularly. When walking or jogging, always bear in mind to never allow the dog to take the lead. If you want them to become obedient pets, make sure that you are not the dominant type dog-aggressive owner.
