Justin Chastel Describes The Ideal Bouvier des Flandres

History Index

Bouvier Reading

History-Chastel_Pix.jpg (21667 bytes) On the Character
Of the Bouvier des Flandres
By Justin Chastel
De La Thudinie Kennels
Thuin, Belgium

The true nature of the Bouvier des Flandres combined with the selfless utilitarian goals of his breeders has given him a very high and balanced character.

These past years we have confirmed with satisfaction that breeders were ready to give to the Bouvier des Flandres a vigor and a certain perseverance, an individuality which was lacking in the past.

All trainers know it is more agreeable and more feasible to achieve with an alert dog than it is with a lazy dog. We can then consider the character of the Bouvier is satisfying and that there is nothing to envy in any other breed. We can develop examples and proofs endlessly. After the war of 1914-1918 when amateurs began to become seriously interested in the Bouvier there was in this breed a certain percentage of really ferocious and unmanageable dogs. In my country in most farming areas Bouviers were then kept on chains. At this time the breed held a ferocious reputation.

Since then judicious breeding has eliminated dangerous characteristics. At present the calm and stability of the Bouvier always enchants those who have enough luck to own one of these dogs.

This said, we must carefully guard against losing this heritage and not let it be compromised by insufficiently instructed breeders. In breeding dogs characteristics are quickly set. In only a few generations one can see not only the positive qualities appearing but also the faults. lt is, good then, to be forewarned on each matter of character before mistakes are made.

Those in clubs should insist on useful work as a test of Bouvier character.

The Bouvier is nothing of a dandy. Its charm resides in great part in it's character. Witness the almost human look through shaggy eyebrows! If it lost this quality what would it have left?

For breeders of Bouviers success will never be complete. There will always be, here and there, individuals of less than true Bouvier character. Regardless of how beautiful or otherwise attractive, such individuals should not be bred from.

All ought to perceive the correct character of the Bouvier des Flandres and look on it as a heritage on which we have no right to infringe a trust which is ours to enjoy and to pass on unaltered.

Breeders and judges must never forget this obligation.