History of the Beauceron Breed

Developed entirely in France, the Beauceron is said to date back to the late 1500s. History suggests that the breed's origin lies in the plains that surround Paris called La Beauce, and many believe that this dog does not have any trace of non-French crosses. Experts claim that a Renaissance manuscript from 1578 is the earliest recorded document mentioning the Beauceron. This large French sheepdog was mainly used by farmers as a general-purpose dog. It was responsible for driving and protecting sheep and cattle, and it was also known to be a guard for the family. There are some that claim that the Beauceron is related in some way to a dog that was known for centuries in Western Europe, and it may even be found in the ancestry of the Doberman. It was in 1863 that two types of French sheepdogs were broken into two breeds: the long-coated Briard, and the short-coated Beauceron. The Beauceron was registered for the first time with the Societe Centrale Canine in 1893, and documents show that the first Beauceron breed club was established in 1922. While popular in its native land, the Beauceron was not known in the rest of the world. The Beauceron was used as a messenger dog by the French army in World Wars I and II - a natural choice as this breed shows excellent abilities including following directions, detecting mines, and following trails. This breed is still used today in police and military work. The Beauceron is also used for family protection. When efforts were made in the 1960s to preserve the qualities of native French breeds, the popularity of the Beauceron grew not only in France, but also in other places. The Beauceron Club of America was formed in 1980, and the breed was admitted to the Miscellaneous Class by the AKC in 2001.

Size and Appearance of the Beauceron Breed

Described as a solid, well-balanced dog, the front legs of the Beauceron feature powerful muscles and strong bones. The hindquarters are also powerful, providing the dog with tireless, flexible movement. The round feet are strong and feature black nails and firm pads. The muzzle of this breed is neither narrow nor pointed, and the full jaws have powerful teeth that meet in a scissors bite. The large, slightly oval eyes are dark brown in color and offer a confident expression. The thick ears are set high and can be cropped or left natural. When cropped, the ears stand upright. The muscled neck of the Beauceron blends smoothly in the back, and the head is carried upright and proud. The tail of this breed should not be docked, and it is naturally carried down. When the dog is on the move, the tail is raised with a curve. The gait is described at effortless and fluid, which gives the impression that the Beauceron is gliding. The double coat of this breed is naturally weather resistant and consists of a straight, coarse outer coat of medium length and a dense undercoat. The Beauceron coat comes in two varieties: black and tan (bi-color) and black, gray, and tan (tri-color).

Beauceron Temperament

Intelligent, courageous, and calm, the Beauceron is adept at learning. This breed is known for its loyalty, and it is often happy to please and protect its family. Proper training and socialization is necessary to prevent this dog from becoming the boss. While the Beauceron is patient with children, some children may be overwhelmed by this breed, and the dog may try to herd small children. This dog is sometimes wary of strangers, and it generally does not get along with strange dogs. However, it can usually adapt to other pets in the home, including cats, if the Beauceron is introduced at an early age. The Beauceron is a protective breed, and it makes an excellent guard dog. Because of its love of the family, it should not be left alone for long periods of time. Beauceron puppies can be especially active and slow to mature.

Beauceron Recommended Maintenance

Even considering the double-coat of this breed, grooming of the Beauceron is quite minimal. A simple brushing one or two times a week is all that is necessary, but more often may be required during shedding times. This breed is considered to be an average shedder. The Beauceron is a breed that enjoys mentally and physically stimulating activities. Without such stimulation, it may become bored and destructive. Because of its love for its family, this breed should not be left in a kennel. Daily outdoor activity and exercise is important. Long walks and play time off the leash in safe areas is recommended. This breed will do okay in an apartment setting as long as enough exercise is provided. Access to a large, fenced-in yard is suggested.

Beauceron Health

Life span: 10 - 12 years
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: CHD, gastric torsion
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: hip