Beauceron

Overview

Overview of Beauceron

With no known breed history, the Beauceron is a very ancient and majestic breed with roots going as far back as the 1500s. Also known as the Berger de Beauce or the Bas Rouge (red stockings), their name comes from their homeland in La Beauce, France where they were originally bred for driving and herding. The Beauceron's unwavering courage later proved vital when working as messenger dogs during WWII. They are exceptionally athletic, large (66 - 100 lbs) dogs who excel in herding, lure coursing, and obedience training. Due to their high intelligence, they need a lot of daily stimulation both mentally and physically. You can tell that you're looking at a Beauceron dog from their iconic red stockings combined with either black or smokey harlequin. You may not be familiar with the Beauceron, but their genetics helped create the Doberman Pinscher, the Catahoula Leopard dog and possibly even the Rottweiler. Another fun fact is that they naturally have a double dewclaw on each of their hind legs. Some joke that the double dewclaw is spring-loaded and helps the Beauceron jump onto the backs of their flock!

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Beauceron

Dog hip dysplasia:

Is a hereditary skeletal condition that is especially common in larger breeds, like the Beauceron. In dogs with hip dysplasia, the ball and socket do not develop properly so instead of sliding smoothly, they grind together, causing deterioration over time and the possible loss of function of the joint itself.

Recommendations for Dog hip dysplasia in Beauceron Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Beauceron

Dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs:

Is a common heart disease that affects many dog breeds, including the Beauceron. It is characterized by an enlarged weakened heart that has difficulty pumping blood effectively through the body.

Recommendations for Dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs in Beauceron Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Beauceron

Hypothyroidism in dogs:

Is a condition that develops when a dog’s thyroid gland does not produce adequate hormone levels to maintain their metabolism. Symptoms may include weight gain, lethargy and a dull skin or coat.

Recommendations for Hypothyroidism in dogs in Beauceron Dogs:

Personality

Beauceron puppies are confident, aloof and tenacious and can be great additions to any family home as long as you begin socialization and training early. They were bred never to back down from a threat, so a Beauceron will make an exceptional service dog and herding dog but is not recommended for a first-time dog owner. Adults require 2-4 hours of daily exercise (including mental stimulation) so they are best suited for active households. Beauceron dogs are slow to mature so if you're excited about a big puppy for more than two years, this could be a great four-legged companion for you! They lose their entire coat twice a year and are fairly heavy shedders so having a dedicated grooming routine will serve you well with this dog! So if you want a hardworking velcro dog who is extremely dedicated and will constantly keep you on your toes, you’ll love a Beauceron!