So you’re thinking of a Bouvier?

You may have seen them in dog shows or being walked by their proud owners in the park or on the street. With their fabulous coats and distinctive profile, Bouviers certainly command attention wherever they go. Their owners will tell you of the joys of owning a Bouv — that they’re good guardians, great with kids, and non-shedding, and that they are extremely intelligent and have real character.

With some exceptions, these claims are true. But the Bouvier is also aloof and strong-willed, huge and often intimidating, slops water all over every time it takes a drink, requires significant grooming, may kill your cat, and is more expensive to maintain in terms of feeding and vetting than smaller breeds.