Beauceron (Herding Group)
The Beauceron is a highly intelligent and
sensitive member of the Herding Group. This breed has the look and form of a
balanced, solid, and powerful dog. They have strong jaws, an agile body, with a
dense, straight coat. Today the Beauceron serves the function of a protective
house dog but at one time was associated as being one of the best of herding
canines.
These dogs are supremely focused when it
comes to listening to its owner's commands and takes great pride in learning
new things. They are a loyal breed, calm yet courageous, especially under the
circumstances of guarding the family. The Beauceron is always ready to please
and very patient around children. These dogs score high when it comes to
training ability, watchdog accountability, and protection ability.
A Brief History Of The Beauceron
Although the area of origin for this breed
is France (dating back to the 1500s), they are not entirely a French breed. The
Beauceron actually originated from the plains outside of Paris (the La Beauce).
These dogs were largely used as farm dogs - driving sheep, protecting cattle,
and guarding the family.
It was 1863 when two types of the same dog
had emerged. One was a flock-herding dog (the long coated Berger de Brie,
known as the Briard) and the other a guardian (the short coated Berger
de Beauce, known as the Beauceron). The first Berger de Beauce was
registered in 1893 by the Societe Centrale Canine group. And the first breed
club was created in 1922.
The breed was very well known as one of the
best herding dogs in France, but remained hidden from outside of the area. They
became well-respected in the military as service dogs during both world wars.
Their functions included following trails, detecting mines, and adhering to
detailed instructions. The Beauceron Club of America was formed in 1980 and in
2001 the AKC officially recognized the breed as a member of the miscellaneous
class.
Upkeep Requirements For The Beauceron
Taking care of this energetic and super
intelligent breed means lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation. This is
not the type of dog that is happy sitting around the house all day. Without the
right amount of stimulation, both mental and physical, the Beauceron becomes
easily bored and will act out in a destructive manner.
The Beauceron should have plenty of time to
spend outdoors in a large, fenced-in yard, but should sleep inside at night
with the family. They can tolerate moderately cool and warm temperatures.
Grooming requirements for the breed calls for a light brushing once per week to
remove dead hairs.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Beauceron is
between ten and twelve years. There are no major health concerns in the breed.
Minor health issues include gastric torsion and CHD. Veterinarians suggest that
all Beauceron dogs get specifically tested for hip problems.
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