Bouv Things To Know

Bouvier stories
From: Carol Rauch Date: Wed, 19 Nov 1997
THINKING OF A BOUVIER? Then here are a few things you should know!
The Bouvier des Flandres is a square, powerfully-built dog, rugged and formidable in appearance, weighing 65 to 100 pounds and standing 23.5 to 27.5". Originally a cattle-herding dog, the Bouvier has also been used for police and protection work. It is a serene, laid-back dog, amiable and watchful, good-natured and self-confident. Most Bouviers are gentle and tolerant with children. Bouviers are reserved and don't show their affection very outwardly. But while appearing aloof and detached, the Bouv becomes deeply devoted to its family and doesn't like to be left alone. The breed is large, strong, and independent of mind. This can be a difficult combination and basic obedience training is essential. The Bouv is easily bored by training routines. To become a good companion, the Bouvier needs early socialization with managed exposure to a variety of experiences and environments. A Bouvier is not aggressive but is assertive when challenged. It is likely to be wary of strangers and may corner them if unaccompanied. Its size and air of calm appraisal can be intimidating. The Bouvier is best with an owner with a certain amount of strength of personality and commitment to a bonded relationship. The Bouv is a natural for herding, carting, tracking, and agility. While amenable to competitive obedience work at all levels, it is not one of the more popular breeds for this sport as it tends to respond to commands slowly and with great deliberation. Unlike some breeds, the Bouvier won't exercise itself. While it adapts to apartment living and doesn't need huge amounts of exercise like the sporting breeds, it should have long walks twice a day. Many Bouviers have high prey drive and may pursue cats, squirrels, groundhogs and other small mammals even birds. The harsh double coat protects the dog in all types of inclement weather. They tolerate cold weather very well and tend to suffer in heat. Shedding is minimal and many people who are allergic to dogs can tolerate the Bouv. Because of the nature of the coat, Bouviers require considerable amounts of combing out on a regular basis. The coat will mat if left unattended. Professional grooming and bathing of a dog this size is expensive. This is not a breed for people who are fastidious about the cleanliness of their house. The long beard collects water like a sponge, can mat, and can smell. A drink of water will leave a sopping wet trail across your floors and rugs. Colors are gray, brindle, black, and fawn. The usual life span is 10 to12 years. The breed is vulnerable to hip dysplasia, bloat and thyroid problems. Recently a heart problem, subaortic stenosis, has been identified in some lines. If you are interested in purchasing a puppy, be sure to choose a responsible breeder who breeds selectively and places high priority on sound temperament and good health. Check the OFA certifications on the parents. A good breeder will welcome your questions on health and temperament and will interview you carefully to be sure this is the right breed for you. Resources: Bouvier Buyers Guide American Bouvier des Flandres Club 10520 W. 102nd Place Westminster CO 80021 303 466-1242 American Bouvier Rescue League Dale Cuddy, Chair P.O. Box 157 Rowley, MA 01969 508 948-5110 email bridlew@aol.com Contact Other Bouvier Owners: http://www.bogartsdaddy.com/bouvier/lovers James R. Engel, Bouvier des Flandres: The Dogs of Flandres Fields, Alpine Publications, 1991.