Beauceron

Life Span:~10 to 12 years
Litter Size: 6 to 7
Country of Origin: France

Size: On average, a male Beauceron stands 25 to 27 inches while a female stand 24 to 26 inches at the withers. They can weigh approximately 65 to 85 pounds, with some weighing in even heavier.

Coat: The coat is fairly coarse and short, a little over one inch in length. They boast tan markings in various spots on their body, commonly along their muzzles, underneath their muzzles, near their tails, on their legs, and on their chests. The Beaucerons also have a fine, gray undercoat that is usually covered entirely by their overcoat. Typical colors for this dog include bicolor (black with red markings) and tricolor (black and gray with red markings). The Beauceron's distinguishing characteristic is its double hind dewclaws.

Character: The Beauceron is highly intelligent, easily trained and obedient. While not aggressive, Beaucerons are noted for their excellent memories and are protective of their property and people, especially children. The breed is sturdy and adapts well to various climates. If you can give this dog an outlet for its energy and can provide firm but not harsh discipline, you will command the Beauceron's respect and enjoy its sensitivity, loyalty and patience.

Appearance: The Beauceron is a very powerful and well-built dog. The neck is muscular and the powerful body has a straight topline, a broad chest and deep, well-sprung ribs. The legs are muscular and straight, the feet are strong and rounded with hard pads and double dew claws on the hind legs, and the tail is carried low and is slightly feathered. The head is long and flat with a slight furrow between the eyes, and the eyes themselves are dark ovals with a direct and fearless stare. The ears are quite long and drop, although sometimes these are cropped, and the muzzle is in equal length to the skull. This is a strong dog, and even the Doberman is hard pressed to match its physique and jaw strength.

History: Dating back to Renaissance-era France, the Beauceron has spent centuries herding sheep and cattle on European farms. Known mainly in France, the Beauceron is the shorthaired relation of its longhaired cousin the Berger de Brie (Briard).

Health Issues: Health conditions that have been seen in the Beauceron include allergies and dermatomyositis, an inflammatory condition that can affect the skin, muscles, blood vessels and fat. They may also be prone to gastric torsion.

Temperament: The Beauceron is bold yet gentle and highly intelligent. Although loving with children, the Beauceron is a bit wary of strangers and other dogs. The breed, in fact, does not get along well with most pets. One of its distinguishing characteristics is that the Beauceron can very easily memorize tasks, making it a loyal and competent companion.

Care: Beaucerons require only minimum grooming. Weekly bushing of his short coat will suffice. Extra attention is needed during shedding. They need regular exercise, which should include long walks and free run off the leash. They enjoy stimulating activity such as an agility class. Due to their stubborn nature, early training and socialization is needed.

Training: The quick and clever Beauceron catches on fast, and trainers may find that they need to keep up with him and not the other way around. They excel at learning new things and will want to continue to be challenged. If they are not provided with strong leadership and good training, they have a tendency to become pushy and will take over the household. Positive methods work best with this breed.

Activity: The Beauceron thrives on physical and mental stimulation. If they become bored they will become destructive. Due to their loyalty and devotion to the family, this breed does not do well as an outside pet. Daily exercise and activity are crucial. They enjoy free play in safe areas and long walks. The Beauceron will do okay in an apartment provided they are sufficiently and stimulated, although a large fenced yard is preferable.