BEAUCERON

Temperament: Friendly, Smart, Fearless, Protective, Calm
Height: 24 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 80 to 110 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years

ABOUT THE BEAUCERON

The Beauceron is a shorthaired French herding breed. Like all farm dogs, he served multiple purposes, from driving flocks to guarding his property and family. He is active, athletic, and versatile qualities that make him perfect for only a small minority of dog owners.

The Beauceron is not an appropriate choice for a first-time dog owner. He is smart, assertive, and independent (read stubborn). He is an excellent watchdog and has the size and ability to defend his home and family if needed. Conversely he needs a firm hand to ensure he has appropriate training and socialization. He matures slowly and will be puppylike until he is about 3 years old.

PERSONALITY

The beauceron is loyal and protective, making a good watchdog and guard dog that is protective of his people and property. They tend to be a dominant breed and require a firm hand in training. If handled with patience, this breed can become an ideal companion. They can be territorial around other pets and should be introduced to other dogs early in their training.

The beauceron is an intelligent breed and a quick learner. They enjoy challenging activities and need a regular outlet for their energy. Daily walks are a must, or at least freedom to run in a large yard.

FEEDING

Recommended daily amount: 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dog food a day, divided into two meals.

NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. 
Beaucerons like to eat and are prone to obesity. Keep your Beauceron in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all

HEALTH

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.

According to CHIC recommendations, the thyroid test should be done annually until the dog is 5 years old and then every two years.

CARE

Choose this breed only if you are a high-energy person yourself who enjoys active daily exercise such as running, bicycling, and hiking and can take your dog with you. He’s also well suited to just about any dog sport, including agility, flyball, herding, obedience, rally, search and rescue, and tracking. A bored Beauceron is a destructive Beauceron.

Begin socialization and training early to make the most of the Beauceron’s intelligence, rapid learning ability, and drive. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards. Remember that he is an independent thinker. Be prepared for him to push back when you ask him to do something, testing whether you really mean what you say. It’s essential to be firm, fair, and consistent. Never use harsh treatment or force. 

GROOMING

When it comes to grooming, the Beauceron is an easy keeper thanks to his short, double coat. A bath every three to four months with a mild shampoo is all that is needed. Brush his sleek coat with a natural bristle brush or rubber hound mitt several times a week to remove dead hair.

The Beauceron sheds small amounts year-round and more heavily in spring and fall. He will need more frequent brushing during seasonal shedding periods to control the amount of loose hair floating around your house.

The rest is basic care. His ears need to be checked every week and cleaned if needed. Trim his toenails once a month. Brush the teeth frequently for good overall health and fresh breath.

Source: hillspet, vetstreet.