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Beauceron
Thinking of buying or adopting a Beauceron?
Introduction
The Beauceron is a handsome dog originating from France. Although it is an old breed and is even a parent breed to the Dobermann, it is largely unknown in the UK.
This large canine looks similar to the Dobermann and is a herding breed. Intelligent, gentle, and calm, the Beauceron is an excellent guard dog and is very devoted to its family. Being a high-energy and intelligent dog, it needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep it from being bored. Its short-haired coat sheds minimally and requires less grooming.
History
The Beauceron is an old breed developed exclusively in France. A document written in 1578 is said to have been the first description of the breed. Contrary to its name, this pooch was found throughout northern France and not just in the Beauce region.
The Beauceron breed herded sheep and cattle and guarded them against wolves. It was also used as a messenger, search and rescue canine, transporter, land mine detector, and police and army dog.
Appearance and Grooming
This breed is a powerful dog that stands 61–70 centimetres in height and weighs 66–100 pounds. It has a sturdy physique with a head proportionate to its body and a strong neck. A distinctive physical attribute usually seen in French herding dogs is having double dewclaws on the hind legs.
It has a short waterproof coat consisting of a dense undercoat and a coarse, straight outercoat. The acceptable colours according to the Kennel Club are black-tan as well as a tricolour of grey-black-tan.
Grooming is a breeze for Beauceron owners as it has a short, low-maintenance coat. It does not require trimming or stripping, and baths can be done a few times in a year or as needed. It is a light shedder, which can be managed through weekly brushing.
Aside from caring for your dog’s coat, make sure to regularly trim nails, clean ears, and check for ticks or fleas. An overlooked aspect of dog ownership is good oral hygiene. Take care of your dog’s teeth and gums to prevent disease and bad breath by brushing them at least twice or three times a week. Appropriate chew bones/toys, which your pet will enjoy, can help build strong teeth as well as help remove plaque and dirt.
Temperament and Intelligence
As a guard dog, the Beauceron can be protective by nature and suspicious of strangers, but not necessarily aggressive. It can be extremely aggressive towards other dogs of the same sex. Unless raised with other pets, it is best not to introduce other pets in your home.
The Beauceron is not for first-time dog owners and timid people. Training can be very challenging because it is an independent thinker that would test dominance. Owners need to establish their alpha status. As soon as a chain of command has been established, this breed will do well in basic obedience training and then advanced training for tricks and agility.
It is not aggressive with children, but it tends to nip and chase as part of its herding instincts. Overall, this breed is not for families with unruly small children.
Each breed may have a certain predisposition in terms of temperament and intelligence. However, like humans, each dog is unique. A lot of factors play a role in developing its personality and abilities. Genetics are a factor, but the environments where the puppy is born and then later on raised have a huge influence.
Nutrition and Feeding
A typical serving for an adult Beauceron is three to five cups of excellent-quality dry dog food per day. Nonetheless, each breed is unique, so the amount of food depends on its age, size, build, activity level, and metabolism. Before getting a dog, research about the basic nutritional requirements of the breed. As your dog grows under your care, learn its distinct characteristics to know the right amount and the best food to give.
Typical calorie needs of an adult Beauceron per day:
- Senior and less active: up to 1,700 calories daily
- Typical adult: up to 1,900 calories daily
- Physically active/working dog: up to 2,100 calories daily
The Beauceron needs a special type of dog food for large herding dogs that fits their way of life. There are various brands that have created specific lines to support a healthy weight and strengthen the joints of large dogs. The key ingredient is protein, which should mainly come from meat (beef, bison, chicken, and lamb).
Since the Beauceron is prone to bloat, it thrives on small frequent meals. That being said, it should not be overfed with treats and table scraps. Neither should it be fed immediately before or after a strenuous activity or it may experience digestive issues.
This breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia because of its high level of physical activity. It is important to include food and/or supplements with glucosamine, which can be found in chicken cartilage. Like all breeds, it should be given healthy fats for a healthy coat.
Health and Exercise
The average lifespan of a Beauceron is ten to twelve years. The breed is generally healthy but predisposed to the following conditions:
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
- Eyelid abnormalities (entropion and ectropion)
- Allergies
- Bloat
- Cancer
- Hypothyroidism
- Von Willebrand disease
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Osteochondritis
- Panosteitis
The Beauceron is not fit for apartment living or for families who want laid-back pets. Since it was bred to assist farmers, it thrives in country and farm settings. It requires plenty of exercise, having a constant desire for physical and mental activities. It is perfect for active people who enjoy the outdoors. It is a great companion for walking, hiking, biking, and swimming. It is important to meet its exercise needs or it will exhibit chewing and digging behaviours.
Cost of Ownership
As there are not many Beauceron breeders in the UK and only a few puppies are sold every year, expect to be put on a waiting list. If you want to acquire a Beauceron, expect to pay at least £600 for a pedigreed pup from a KC-registered breeder.
On top of the purchase price, set aside £40-£50 a month for high-quality food and treats. When you include vet costs, check-ups, initial vaccinations, annual boosters, and other health-related costs, expect a yearly expense of more than £1500. Pet insurance is an additional monthly expense of £60 for basic coverage or £105 for lifetime policy.
Beauceron Breed Highlights
- The Beauceron is a loyal and intelligent dog suitable for experienced owners and families with older kids.
- This is the perfect pet for people who engage in outdoor activities.
- Early socialisation is important for this breed for it become a well-balanced dog.
- This canine needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation daily to keep it from becoming bored.
- This is an excellent watchdog.
- It has a short-haired coat that only needs minimal grooming.
Are you sure the Beauceron is the best breed for you? Take the Pet Breed Selector Quiz to find your perfect breed match.
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Disclaimer:
The information, including measurements, prices and other estimates, on this page is provided for general reference purposes only.
The information, including measurements, prices and other estimates, on this page is provided for general reference purposes only.