Our Beauceron dog breed information profile includes characteristics, traits, Beauceron personality and temperament, lifespan, suitability for children, exercise needs, training, health problems and much more. Enjoy our Beauceron pictures gallery, and send in your own cute Beauceron puppy photos!

Meet the Beauceron Dog Breed

One of the foundation breeds for the Doberman Pinscher, the Beauceron is a centuries-old herding dog, native to Northern France. While they’ve been prized for their herding ability for centuries, they’re currently gaining popularity as a protection dog throughout Europe.

Beauceron Facts | Beauceron Dog Breed Pictures
Beauceron History | Beauceron Appearance
Beauceron Temperament | Beauceron Exercise Needs
Beauceron Grooming Needs
Beauceron Training | Beauceron Health Issues
Is the Beauceron Dog Breed the Right Choice for You?

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Beauceron History

The true origins of the Beauceron remain clouded in mystery, though he is known to have developed in the northern parts of France and Western Europe. A relative of the Briard, though having a distinctively different appearance than a longhaired sheepdog, both breeds display a distinctive double dewclaw on the hind legs and are thought to be from the same ancestorial stock. In 1893, a veterinarian by the name of Paul Megnin pointed out the differences between the long-haired Berger de la Brie and the short-haired Berger de Beauce. Once he had solidified the belief that they were two separate breeds, he then joined with one M. Emmanuel Ball and created a standard, by which the Beauceron would be judged. In 1922, the Club des Amis du Beauceron was created and in 2008, the Beauceron finally made his debut at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Despite his being a newly recognized breed, the Beauceron has enjoyed a rich history, not only as a herding dog and defending the flocks against wolves, but also serving in both World Wars where he not only helped to detect land mines and rescue injured soldiers, but was also used to deliver messages and to help carry supplies.

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Beauceron Appearance

Looking at the Beauceron, it’s obvious to see his influence over one of his descendants, the Doberman Pinscher. While bearing a distinctive shepherd like quality, this French sheep dog possesses a more powerful and athletic build, with a higher hindquarter than other shepherd breeds. Standing anywhere from 23 to 28 inches high at the shoulder, and weighing 65 to 85 pounds as an adult, the Beauceron is a muscular in build and athletic with a distinctive black and tan or Harlequin coloration. Their coat tense to be harsh on the outside, yet possesses a woolly undercoat, which helps to keep them protected from the elements.

Beauceron Temperament and Personality

Overall, the Beauceron is generally friendly towards humans and possesses a quiet dignity. Said to be protective of both children and property, he often makes a good watchdog and has recently been gaining popularity as a protection dog throughout Europe.

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Beauceron Exercise Needs

Like most dogs that were raised to work, the Beauceron is an athletic dog that requires a fair amount of exercise. Ideally suited for farm living, they do not do well in apartments or the city, and can become very destructive if allowed to grow bored. Should you choose to bring a Beauceron puppy into your home, it’s important to realize that you are making a big commitment and you’ll need to take your dog on a brisk walk or jog for a minimum of 30 minutes per day.

Grooming Beaucerons

While the Beauceron does not require as much grooming as many breeds, they can still be prone to shedding, particularly in the spring and late summer. To keep your Beauceron puppy happy and healthy, we recommend brushing your dog a minimum of once per week, more during times of heavy shedding. At this time, you should always check his toenails, remembering to trim the dew claws on his back legs.

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Training Beaucerons

The Beauceron is a very willing and competent student, when it comes to obedience and agility training. Highly intelligent, while some puppies may be prone to move stubborn streaks, they often work well with praise, treats and clicker training, while reacting poorly to negative reinforcement. Enrolling your Beauceron in puppy obedience courses and agility classes will help, not only to teach him but also help to give him his required exercise. Above all else, be both patient and consistent in your training, and you’ll find your Beauceron an apt pupil.

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Beauceron Health Concerns

The Beauceron is a relatively hale and hearty breed, with few major health concerns. Like many large breed dogs, they can be prone to gastric torsion (bloat) and hip dysplasia. For this reason, it’s very important to have your Beauceron visit the veterinarian for regular checkups.

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Is a Beauceron Right For Me?

Known as a gentleman amongst guard dogs, the Beauceron is a very intelligent and friendly individual, prized for his ability to protect and provide companionship. This does not mean, however, that they are the dogs for everyone.

Beauceron dogs are often very active until well into their adult lives and are not the best dogs for apartment or city dwelling. Ideally, to own Beauceron, you should have the minimum of a large fenced-in yard and be ready to play a lot of fetch and flyball. Beauceron love exercise and excel in agility or anything active – they are not a dog for couch potatoes.

If you’re willing to make that sort of commitment and are looking for a stable companion dog, you may find the Beauceron to be the perfect dog for you!

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Beauceron Dog Breed Pictures Gallery

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