Bouvador

Dog Breed Profile

Bouvador History

The Bouvier des Flandres, also known as the Belgian Sheepdog, is a medium to large-sized herding and guard dog. The Belgian Sheepdog was originally used in Belgium to herd sheep, cattle, and horses. The Belgian Sheepdog is one of two large herding dogs from Belgium, the other being the Tervuren. The Belgian Sheepdog is one of five “ancient” sheepdogs, along with the Scottish Collie, the Shetland Sheepdog, the Finnish Lapphund, and the Icelandic Sheepdog. The “ancient” sheepdogs are considered to be the oldest types of modern herding and guard dogs, and share common ancestry with several other ancient canines, such as the North American Eskimo Dogs and the Canadian Inuit Dogs.

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

United States Of America

Ancestry

Bouvier des Flandres, Labrador Retriever

Bouvador Physical Characteristics

The Bouvador is a medium to large sized small breed that typically stands between 13 and 18 inches tall at the withers (highest point of the shoulders) and weighs between 30 and 45 pounds. They have a rectangular shaped head, a pointed muzzle, and a soft, silky double coat that is pale yellow, white, gray, or a mixture of these colors. They have oval-shaped eyes that are a dark, inky blue in color. The Bouvador has an arched nape, a long tail, and a straight or slightly curved back. They are a people-oriented happy-go-lucky breed.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Fawn, Brindle, Black, Gray, Brown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 22 – 28 inches

Female Height Range: 22 – 28 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 55 – 90 lbs

Female Weight Range: 55 – 90 lbs

Bouvador Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-13 yrs

Bouvador Health Concerns

Elbow Dysplasia, Cataracts, Retinal Dysplasia, Glaucoma, Hip Dysplasia, Bloat, Hemolytic Anemia, Ear Infections, Diabetes, Cushing’s Disease, Food Allergies

Bouvador Temperament and Behaviour

The Bouvier des Flandres is courageous, protective, and devoted to his family. These traits also make the Bouvier a good watchdog. These dogs are also very gentle, even-tempered and patient. The Bouvier gets along well with children, and is often described as “cat-like” in their interactions with people.

Bouvador Activity Requirements

The Bouvier des Flandres, commonly known as the Bouv, is a herding dog that originated in Belgium. Today, they are a solid, medium-sized dog that is intelligent and hard-working. While they are not as high-energy as some breeds, the Bouv does enjoy being active and participating in activities. They love to play, both with toys and with people. An hour of play a day is usually enough to meet most Bouvs’ exercise needs. If you live an active lifestyle, you may find that your Bouv is a good fit for you. They are well-suited for hiking, jogging, and biking. They will enjoy going on long walks with you or taking you on adventures. Be sure to take your Bouv’s energy levels and stamina into account when planning your activities and outings.