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This blog will discuss everything you'll need to know about the Beauceron dog breed.
Beauceron is the largest herding dog breed in France. They are not just large dogs—they are athletic and highly intelligent dogs.
These rugged and muscular dogs, however, also have a softer side. Beauceron might be a bit reserved with strangers, but they are affectionate and gentle to his family.
If you're looking to adopt a Beauceron puppy, you have to keep in mind that these dogs are not recommended for first-time owners.
That's because they require a ton of work. They need plenty of exercise and consistent training.
But with proper care, Beaucerons are loyal and protective of his family.
Beauceron is a highly athletic breed. It can be your next partner for walks, hikes, or other adventures.
Below, we'll tackle the dog's physical characteristics, temperament, training and exercise needs, grooming essentials, and other possible health problems that they are prone to.
But before any of that, let's discuss Beauceron's background.
Beauceron Dog Breed History
The Beauceron, also originally known as “Berger de Beauce” or the “Bas Rouge” is a sheepdog from the Beauce region of France.
These large dogs slowly became popular for livestock herding and guarding breeds all over the country's north side.
Bearuceron is not just the largest French sheepdog. He can also be one of the oldest as well.
These dogs have historical documents dating from the 1500s. During these times, they were developed to be hunters of wild boars.
By the early 1800s, they even grew more popular for driving sheep and cattle across the plains of La Beauce alongside the Briard dog breed.
During the wars, the Beauceron was used by the French army as messengers due to their intelligence and ability to follow commands easily.
These dogs were also utilized in mine detection and tracking. And in this day and age, they are still employed as police dogs and in search and rescue operations.
In 1863, the breed makes its first public appearance as an established breed at the Universal Exposition in Paris dog show.
This is when they even became more famous as the Societe Central Canine recognized the breed as the Berger de Beauce.
Eventually, the dog breed finally had its association called the Club des Amis Du Beauceron which was founded in 1922.
However, the American Kennel Club only recognized the Beauceron breed in 2007. But it is still one of the rarest breeds on AKC's list.
Beauceron Physical Traits
Beauceron is a large and muscular dog. They are powerful dogs with strong, straight backs, broad muscular loins, and wide, deep chests.
They have high-set ears that can be cropped or natural. Their eyes are horizontal and slightly oval.
Their eye color is dark brown, and their nose is always black.
The Beauceron has strong jaws. And even though they are muscular dogs, they can move quickly.
Now, let's discuss the Beauceron coat. The Beauceron dog breed is double-coated. They have a harsh outer coat, while the undercoat is soft and silky.
Their undercoat is short, fine, dense, and downy, and its color is light grey. On the other hand, their outer coat is short, dense, coarse, and close to their bodies.
The Beuceron's coat color will vary. It can be black and rust, black and tan, grey, or harlequin.
Male Beauceron's height stands about 25.5 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder. Females, on the other hand, are a bit smaller. They are around 25-26.5 inches.
Their average weight is about 70 to 110 pounds.
Beauceron Temperament
There are a lot of characteristics that can stand out with the Beauceron.
For instance, Beaucerons are highly intelligent, which makes them enjoyable learners and has eager-to-please personalities.
If you're trying to train him with basic commands, that's easy! Teaching them advanced skills? Absolutely no problem.
These dogs are fast learners and very competitive in activities like obedience and rally, agility, herding, scent assignment, and more.
Also, due to their intelligence, they are capable of making independent decisions. That's one of the reasons why these strong-willed dogs are not well-suited for first-time dog owners.
The Beauceron dog breed is best for people who enjoy training dogs and loves canine sports.
However, Beaucerons tend to be dominant dogs. They require firm and consistent training.
But with enough patience, these dogs are capable of being wonderful companions.
Beaucerons are also loyal and protective. They are instinctively suspicious of strangers due to their livestock guarding history.
These dogs are defensive of his people and property, making them excellent watchdogs and guard dogs.
Living with a Beauceron
Due to their high intelligence and energetic personalities, the Beauceron dog breed is not suited for first-time dog owners and small apartment living.
Beaucerons are best suited for homes with a large fenced-in yard, preferably a farm. This allows for its high energy, which city living can't provide.
If you're the type of person that's always at work, we recommend adopting other dog breeds as Beaucerons despise being alone for too long.
Since they are working dogs, they benefit from having certain tasks or jobs to do.
Beaucerons are intelligent dogs that love to work. If you're planning to adopt a Beauceron, he can be a great addition to the family and be an excellent watchdog that will protect his property and family members.
Training and Exercise
Beaucerons benefit from positive reinforcement, reward-based training, and other positive or modern methods.
Since they are also very smart dogs, you can try agility, man-trailing, rally, obedience, and more to their training.
Keep in mind that when it comes to training, consistency is the key—especially for these dogs that love to work. You'll also need to be patient since they are independent thinkers.
Just like any other dog breed, early socialization is required with the Beauceron. Socialization can help them easily accept other pets and children in your home.
On the other hand, Beaucerons are active dogs. That's why they are the best fit for people who enjoy exercising and training.
Since these dogs are working dogs, they are energetic, smart, and independent. They require high amounts of exercise, not just physically but also mentally.
It is best advised to exercise your adult Beauceron for at least two to three hours per day, with a lot of training and mental stimulation.
You can try brisk walks and hiking as they will for sure love these kinds of exercise. Moreover, you can try puzzle toys to help keep their minds entertained.
Health Care
Beauceron is generally a healthy dog with a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years!
Unfortunately, like other dog breeds, they are susceptible to certain health conditions that you ought to look out for.
That's why if you're looking to adopt a dog, it's best to find a reputable breeder. Responsible breeders can give you health clearances for the puppy and its parents.
Below, we've gathered a few health problems that Beaucerons are prone to.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary condition wherein there's a distortion in the socket of the joint and ball.
When your dog is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, it’s crucial to keep its normal weight and engage them in activities that encourage joint therapy.
If their weight is over the standard, they may create issues in the bone and joint as it is the most strained during activities.
Veterinarians may prescribe medications for pain relievers and supplements. You can also prevent this condition by keeping them active but not injuring them.
Swimming or treadmill walks are great exercises to help prevent this kind of health issue.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA, is also a problem for Beauceron.
This is a degenerative disease that affects the rod and cone cells in the eyes that leads to blindness.
It is also a genetic disease that is known to have no treatment yet. Unfortunately, this disease can progress quickly from a year or two.
It is best advised to have your Beauceron frequently checked to reduce the risk of this condition.
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Osteochondritis Dissecans in dogs is the inflammatory condition of the joints when the cartilage detaches from the bone.
It is often found in the shoulders but it can also be found in areas where there are joints.
Symptoms can depend on the seriousness, but the common signs of Osteochondritis Dissecans are swelling of joints, obvious signs of pain when walking, lameness, and unable to walk due to pain.
Unfortunately, this is a very painful disorder. Get the dog checked up with the veterinarian as soon as possible.
Treatment can include rest, medication, therapy, or surgery. Of course, it may depend on the results of their test.
Gastric Torsion
Gastric Torsion or bloating in dogs is a gastrointestinal condition where-in a dog’s stomach expands due to it teeming with fluid, food, or gas.
This can be a deadly case if left untreated. In some cases due to bloating, blood is trapped in the stomach preventing return and proper flow.
Prevention includes avoiding your dog to do activities right after a meal, eating meals too fast, large meals throughout the day, and stressing them.
Treatment will depend on your veterinarian's observation.
Beauceron Grooming
Beauceron's waterproof double coat only needs minimal grooming. They only require brushing a few times a week to remove dead hair.
You can use a pin brush or a slicker brush when it's shedding season.
Most shedding often happens in spring and fall and just a little bit more for the rest of the year.
You can also bathe your Beauceron every three or four months depending on how dirty they can get when playing.
Nail trimming is also essential for dogs. Long nails can cause chipping, tearing, splitting, and breaking, which can be painful for them and it'll need veterinary treatment.
Clip their nails once a month. Once you hear a clicking sound when your dog is walking, it's a great indicator that their nails are too long.
Dental hygiene is also crucial when it comes to grooming a dog.
Make sure to brush your dog's teeth two or three times a week to avoid tartar buildup or any bacteria that can be lurking inside. Daily brushing is also sometimes suggested.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaucerons
Is a Beauceron a Doberman?
At first glance, the Beauceron and Doberman may look the same. But even though they have plenty of similarities between them, they are two distinct and unique breeds.
They might have similar physiques and coloration at first, but they are different dog breeds.
For instance, the Beauceron is a member of the Herding Group. On the other hand, the Doberman is part of the Working Group.
Are Beaucerons bigger than German shepherds?
Yes, Beaucerons are taller and heavier than German Shepherds.
Beaucerons can weigh up to 110 pounds and can grow 24 to 27.5 inches tall. German Shepherds, on the other hand, weigh around 75 to 90 pounds and grow 24 to 26 inches tall.
Are Beauceron good family dogs?
The Beauceron is best suited for active families. These dogs are intelligent and have plenty of energy.
With early and proper socialization, Beauceron can be a great addition to the family as they can adapt well to children and other pets at home.
Beauceron Dog Breed Profile: Summary
Beauceron also known as Berger de Beauce, is a sheepdog from the Beauce region of France.
These dogs are loyal, highly intelligent, and energetic dogs. They have a strongly built body that is made for livestock herding and guarding.
Beaucerons are active dogs that are best suited for homes with large fenced-in yards or farm life.
If you're planning to adopt a Beauceron puppy, keep in mind that this dog breed requires vigorous amounts of exercise and training.
If you love going on brisk walks or hiking, the Beauceron can be the perfect match for you.
They are the largest French herding breed. They thrive when doing tasks or working. To this day, Beaucerons are still used in police work, rescue work, or protection duties.
