Origin: Belgium
Origin of Name: Bouvier des Ardennes is a rare dog breed from Belgium.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Large | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
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Very little is known with certainty about the history of Bouvir des Ardenis. This breed was probably developed before the time when written records were kept for dog breeding, and in any case developed by farmers who only cared about the dog's ability, and not Its genealogy or history. Bower first records written records in 1800, and it appears that the breed was already well established in its homeland by that time. This may mean that the breed evolved somewhat earlier, perhaps the 17th or 18th century. It is almost certain that the breed was developed in Ardennes, a hilly and heavily forested area located in the south of Belgium. The first records of the dog all come from the Ardinens, and it does not appear that the breed existed elsewhere before the 20th century.
The Boovier des Ardennes was originally almost exclusive to shepherd and driving cattle. The name of this breed literally translates to either, "The Cattle Dog of Ardennes," or, "The Dog of the Ardennes Gira." The breed rounded the cattle and moved them from one place to another. This was necessary for several reasons. This allowed farmers to move cattle to different areas to graze anew. This allowed them to bring their cattle to the barn at night or during winter. Perhaps most importantly, farmers were able to take their cattle for sale in the market. In an era where there was no motorized transportation and the market could be several miles away from a farm, the use of dropping dogs was an absolute necessity.
It is not clear which breeds were used to develop the Bower des Ardenis. Many claim that it was developed exclusively from local dogs which evolved over time into a different local variety. Others claim that it was banned by crossing the Picardy Shepherd with the Belgian Cattle Dog. In this writer's opinion, the breed is most likely the result of crossing the Schnauzer and Dutch Shepherds with local Belgian dogs. The breed apparently shares with other Belgian Buvivars, and is native to the same country. The coat and appearance of many breed members is very similar to that of Schneizer, which was used to release cattle in the neighboring country of Germany. The color of the brindle coat found in the breed is similar to that common among Dutch Shepherds, which at one time was commonly found in the Belgian region of Belgium.
The coat of Bouvier des Ardennes requires a significant commitment to maintenance. Unless this breed is regularly brushed, its hair can become mats and tangles. Ideally this breed would be brushed every day, but it would be fine if prepared well 3 times a week. Buvir des Ardenis should not require professional grooming, but some owners choose to shave their dogs when the temperature rises. Bouvir des Ardenesis sheds. Generally this breed is a lighter for the average cheddar, but once or twice a year it will become very heavy when the seasons change.
As with all breeds, initial socialization and puppy training classes are recommended. This breed has a reputation for being difficult to house. However, in every other case, it is very easy to train them. For example, They like to perform tricks and learn new ones quickly. They respond very well to training based on positive rewards rather than harsh or negative methods. This breed is required to live with his family and is likely to result in undesirable behaviour if he is regularly left alone for long periods of time.
This breed is classified as "somewhat active", but is average. Long segments of quiet activity are often spread with brief bursts of high activity, often simply moving around the house or yard. In addition to walking, daily play sessions are required. Another dog can be a good exercise partner, but they will still need quality playtime with his owner. A fence-backed backyard is a good idea; Bichons are surprisingly fast, and if someone makes a dash for freedom, it can be difficult to catch or call you back. They enjoy obedience, agility and participating in rally competitions.
They should perform well on high-quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight level. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet, check with your vet. Clean, freshwater must be available at all times.
It does not appear that any health studies have been conducted on the Bower des Ardennes, which makes it impossible to make a definitive statement about the health of the breed. The breed has many risks of genetically inherited health conditions, as it has such a small gene pool, but has also benefited from decades of breeding for its ability to function fully. Some sources claim that the breed's life expectancy is between 11 and 12 years, but it is unclear where this estimate comes from.
Although the health status of the breed is unclear, it is advisable for owners to have their pets tested by both the Orthopedic Foundation (OFA) and the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). OFA and CERF perform genetic and other tests before identifying potential health defects. It is particularly valuable in detecting conditions that do not appear until the dog has reached an advanced age, it is especially important for anyone considering breeding their dog , Which has tested them to prevent the spread of potential genetic conditions to their offspring.
Although health studies have not been conducted on the Bower des Ardennes, they have been for several closely related and similar breeds. Some of the problems of greatest concern include: