THE DOWNSIDE: read carefully!

It is truly a shaggy dog. The long beard collects water like a sponge, can mat, and can smell. A drink of water is likely to leave a sopping wet trail across your floors and rugs. The amount of dirt, mud, snow and debris that a Bouv can track into your house is phenomenal.

The Bouvier requires a considerable amount of grooming. The undercoat must be combed out at least weekly. Without it, the coat mats severely. It is customary to clip the head, ears, and rear and to do some scissoring on the coat and paws every 5 or 6 weeks.

Training is not optional with a breed that is this large, strong, and independent of mind. Because of the temperament, you also need to be committed to continued work with the Bouvier to maintain performance, even the most simple "sits", "stays" and "downs".

The Bouvier needs an owner committed to a bonded relationship. To become a good companion, the Bouvier also needs early socialization with managed exposure to a variety of experiences and environments. It does not like to be left alone and needs human attention every day.

Unlike some of the more energetic breeds, the Bouvier won't exercise itself. While it adapts to apartment living and doesn't need huge amounts of exercise, it should have long walks twice a day. If you cannot provide this, get a more active house dog or one that will fetch balls.

Bouvs tend to be aloof. They don't wear their hearts on their sleeves as many breeds do. Many people prefer a dog that shows its affection more outwardly.

Many Bouviers have high prey drive and may pursue cats, squirrels, and other small mammals — even birds. Some live peacefully with other animals, others do not; some are best friends with cats; others kill them.

A well-bred Bouvier is not aggressive but is assertive when challenged. Its size and air of calm appraisal can be intimidating.