Beauceron
AKA: Berger de Beuce, Bas Rouge (Red Stocking), Beauce Shepherd, French Shorthaired Shepherd
Description: The Beauceron is a herder dog that gives off strength and vitality from its appearance. It is about the size of a Doberman Pinscher. It has short hair with longer fringes in the tail and hindquarters. The outer coat is rough and lined with a woolly, fluffy undercoat for good thermal insulation.
The Beauceron’s distinctive feature is the double dewclaw on the hind legs, making six toes per foot. The ears are cropped and standing. The eyes are a dark chestnut color. The tail is usually carried low in the shape of a ‘J.’
Dynamics: Brave, faithful, patient, and highly intelligent, the Beauceron is readily understanding and obedient of its master’s desires. Its appearance and demeanor commands respect and is a natural guard dog. The Beauceron is an instinctive herder and is happiest when working or exercising.
The Beauceron is generally good with children if they are raised with them since puppyhood. This breed can also be very protective and eager to please its master. Firm and patient training is necessary. The breed should also be thoroughly socialized. The Beauceron is sociable with other dogs and animals that they know but can be very territorial with intruders.
Breed Group: Herding
Weight: up to 110 lbs (50 kg)
Height: 24-27 ½ inches (32-70 cm)
Color: The Beauceron either has a black-and-tan coat or a harlequin coat. The black-and-tan coat consists of tan markings above the eyes on the bottom of the upper lip and throat, on the breast, on the bottom of each leg and under the tail. The harlequin coat comes with patches of gray, black, and tan.
Country of Origin: The Beauceron was found throughout northern France, and not just in Beauce.
Activities: It is necessary to give the Beauceron lots of attention and exercise. It also needs something to do most of the time and lots of space to unleash its energy. Daily long walks and agility exercises are essential for the Beauceron.
Other Info: The Beauceron’s life expectancy is about 10-12 years. It is a generally healthy breed, but prone to hip dysplasia. It is also prone to bloat if not watched. Being a serious but energetic dog, the Beauceron will do well in an apartment only if it is sufficiently exercised and taken outdoors from time to time.
Grooming: The Beauceron doesn’t need much grooming. Attending to the dog when it is shedding is enough.
Tags: bas rouge, beauce, beauceron, berger de beuce, breed, dog, french, shepherd, shorthaired