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Beauceron
The Beauceron is a very
substantial French sheep dog. It is still used both as a
working sheep dog, a police dog and a determined guard dog.
History:
Originating in France, the
Beauceron was closely linked to another ancient breed of
French dog, the Briard. The breeds were believed to be
interchangeable, with the only difference being that the
Beauceron was short-haired and the Briard long-haired.
However, in the 1800s a special group of experts were called
upon to determine further differences between the dogs, and
they were then given the separate breed names.
Physical
characteristics:
The Beauceron has a solid
muscular appearance without being too heavy, as it stands four
square and alert. Height: 24 - 27 in (61 - 70 cm). Weight:
unspecified proportionate to height. The head is long and
flat, with a slightly rounded top over a medium-length muzzle.
The eyes are rounded and non-protruding, and together with the
smallish upright ears provide an alert, confident appearance.
The oblique body is complemented by slightly sloping shoulders
and broad hindquarters. The tail is long and carried low, with
just a slight hook to it. The Beauceron has a double coat
consisting of a short dense undercoat with a thick outer
layer. The coat color is generally black and tan, but may also
be black, red, gray, or gray and tan.
Behavior:
This noble dog was bred to be
brave and determined enough to drive several hundred sheep at
a time. Its instinct to herd and chase are particularly
strong.
It makes an excellent
watch-dog because of its alert demeanor and territorial
characteristics. Also, its bravery and strength of character
have now been put to good use. It is regularly used both for
police and guard dog duties.
The Beauceron gets on well
with other dogs, but it is vital that it be properly
socialized as a puppy. Failure to socialize the Beauceron may
result in it attacking other dogs and injuring them should
they stray into its territory. Likewise, a wise owner will
protect people from the territorial nature of their Beauceron.
As with most dogs, it will make an excellent companion animal.
However,
with family dogs, serious consideration should be given to
sterilizing non-breeding males. This dog really enjoys the
attention of confident and assertive owners who will find it a
joy to work with. It is not a dog for the faint-hearted.
The Beauceron will thrive on
lots of exercise and may become withdrawn and snappy if left
idle. The dog is slow to reach behavioral maturity, and a slow
build-up of simple routines should be established first.
Owners who insist on keeping the Beauceron in a city situation
will have to provide it with considerable attention and
positive tasks. If kept outdoors, the coat will require
regular brushing and periodic attention should be given to the
feet when the dog is exercised vigorously.
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