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HOUSE
OF BOUVS
Breeding Strong, Healthy, and Happy Euro-American Bloodlines
Experience the power of gentle, protective and unconditional love with a Bouvier des Flandres. At the HOUSE OF BOUVS (HOB), we are much more than “dog breeders.” We are a Bouv aficionado. The House of Bouvs is a place where friends and family come to explore and learn about the versatile “Europe's Nanny Dog," the infamous Dog of Flandres.
IS A BOUVIER RIGHT FOR ME?
Breed Information and Educational Resources
So, you’re thinking about getting a Bouvier des Flandres?
Originally bred to herd livestock, Bouvs are willing helpers finding their place in the home, show ring, agility course, therapy office, police force, and beyond. Of all the activities and fun you can have with a Bouv, being a loyal companion and kid-friendly pet is probably the most popular demand on the breed today.
Read: Living With A Bouvier to learn about the physical, social, and temperament unique to the Bouvier des Flandres.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE BOUVIER
Early breeders were cattle farmers and meat proprietors seeking the ideal, all-around farm dog. Bouviers were fearless herders, capable cart-pullers, and eager rodent-chasers. The word, Bouvier, means “cow driver,” and des Flandres, designates the area where they were developed: on the Franco-Belgian border. So, literally, their fancy name mean “cow dog from Flandres.” In 1910, the Societe Royal St. Hubert formally recognized the breed at the International Dog Show in Brussels, Belgium. By 1912, a breeders’ club wrote the first breed standard.
Read: Breed Information
LIVING WITH A DOG OF FLANDRES
Due to the Bouvier’s long, fluffy coat, many owners under-estimate the breed’s guard dog ability and expect the affability of a Poodle mix. New Bouv owners are strongly encouraged to attend puppy obedience classes to train both the Bouv and you about your new family roles and responsibilities. Your Bouv will need to know that you’re the leader – and a good, responsible, authority he/she can trust. Unlike many breeds, and mixed breeds, obedience, training and socialization are ESSENTIAL for the pet Bouv.
Read: Living With A Bouvier
HEALTH AND VITALITY
Like all purebred dogs, Bouviers have some, serious, inherited health problems and they are prone to some stress-induced injuries. Buying a dog from a breeder, who tests for genetic defects, is only half of the prevention needed to be a responsible caretaker for your pet. Various activities require you to be aware to prevent traumatic injuries to a pup, as their bones grow strong and mature into adulthood. Likewise, some lifestyles may inadvertently cause unforgettable emotional pain and suffering on your pup. Every Bouvier needs routine veterinary care, consistent training, and professional grooming to grow and mature into a healthy, happy, member of your family.
Read: Breed Information to learn more about health problems good breeders avoid passing forward.
