The Kennel Club's Illustrated Breed Standards describes the Bouvier des
Flandres as:-
"a rugged powerful dog, originally used for herding and
protecting cattle in Belgium and France, he has found his way into the towns
where he can adapt to family life. His impressive head accentuated by
eyebrows, beard and moustache gives him a formidable appearance which belies his
stable temperament and amiable disposition. However, he can and will
protect home and family. He is good with children, quiet in the house but
ever vigilant. His rough dry coat is easy to care for and, although large,
he requires only a medium amount of exercise, is not a clumsy dog, but is very
social and happy to live in country or city, mansion or flat."
The use of the Bouvier as both messenger and ambulance dog in the First World
War led to many being shot on sight by the enemy, and the breed all but died
out. Many modern pedigrees can be traced back to a single dog which was
saved by a vet from the Belgium army.
To learn more about the Bouvier visit the following web-sites.
