Beauceron Dog

This breed is a sheepdog for migratory sheep, and originated in France around the nineteenth century. The first breed standard was created in 1889.

Each year 3,000-3,500 Beauceron puppies are born around the world. The stronghold of the breed, however, is in France, in the Beauce (a strip of land between Chartres and Orleans, about 200 km southwest of Paris) and in the north (along the border with Belgium).

The Beauceron is a large (up to 70 cm) working dog; in terms of its overall appearance one can think of a sturdier edition of a Doberman. A special feature of the Beauceron is double dewclaws. The fur is strong, short, (3-4 cm long), and thick. It is black with tan markings, or blue-mottled with gray, black or tan. The ears are half or hanging; they should not rest against the head.

Care

Its origins as a working dog explain the Beauceron’s penchant for self-employment, which can be easily misinterpreted as stubbornness. In training, its handler, therefore, needs to understand a lot about this dog, and show consistency and empathy. This breed will not tolerate a “hard hand.”

He is considered as a family dog, and it is important to note that he is protective of his family. Like all working dogs, he absolutely needs a lot of employment; all types of sports for dogs are appropriate. The Beauceron runs 40 to 100 km in a day as a herding dog, and it can travel that distance beside a bicycle.

The Beauceron are very intelligent dogs and are very faithful to their masters. They also like to do tasks for their caregivers. It is assumed here, however, that the dog recognizes the master as the pack leader, because he tends to dominate. Beauceron behave suspiciously and cautiously towards unknown people; they do not tend to build any friendships.

Use

The Beauceron is used as a watch, guard, and protection dog. As a family dog, he is entirely appropriate if his origin is as such. As a guard dog, he is reliable if he comes from a related line of work. Because this breed requires a high degree of job satisfaction, a balance of prey and labor is urged. The good agility and resilience make him a good tracking dog, running by his joy. He is also suitable as a medical dog, especially since he is balanced and resilient. The same applies to its use as an avalanche and disaster dog.