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BeauceronBas Rouge ~ Beauce Shepherd

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Canis lupus familiarisPhoto Wiki-Commons: Courtesy Pleple2000

     The Beauceron is a sleek athletic dog, and as its name suggests, it originated in France!

     The Beauceron is a herding breed that was traditionally used for stock in France where it originated. But this is multi-talented breed that has been used in many other types of work as well, including drafting, protection, and as a service dog, Originally they weren't well known outside of France, as they were highly aggressive herders. But selective breeding has made today's Beauceron more amicable and they are now found in family homes across Western Europe and North America.

     Beaucerons are fearless and faithful companions. If they are properly socialized at a young age they will get along well with children and most other pets, even strangers. They have a calm demeanor and a desire to please their masters. Due to its imposing appearance and bravery, the Beauceron makes an excellent guard dog.

     When selecting a Beauceron, check for signs of hip problems. Hip dysplasia is fairly common in this breed. Most Beauceron breeders in the United States only breed dogs that are hip certified.

Common Name(s)     Beauceron, Bas Rouge, and Beauce Shepherd

Breed Type      The Beauceron is a considered a herding breed dog, as it was traditionally used for this in France where it originated. But the Beauceron is truly multi-talented. It has been used in numerous types of work from herding, protection, drafting, tracking, service dog, and more. A hardy dog, it is also adaptable to a wide variety of climates.

Background      As its name suggests, the Beauceron originated in France. It is not known exactly how old the breed is, but records appear to go back to the 1500s. It is believed that the Beauceron may have been used in the breeding of Doberman Pinschers.
Although they are known as herders, Beaucerons have been used in numerous types of work. They have been war and police dogs, guard dogs, show dogs, trackers, and watchdogs. This is a very intelligent and hard-working breed.
     Beaucerons are not well known outside of France. Originally a highly aggressive herder, selective breeding has made today's Beauceron more amicable toward humans. This has led to an increase in the number of Beaucerons found in family homes in Western Europe and North America.

Description      The Beauceron is a sleek, athletic-looking dog with a short, harsh coat. Its ears are naturally half-pricked, but are usually cropped so that they stand erect. Eyes are dark brown.
     There are two acceptable Beauceron coat colors. The black and tan Beauceron is black with tan markings above the eyes, on the bottom of the upper lip and throat, in two spots on the breast, the bottom of each leg, and under the tail. Harlequins have patches of gray, black, and tan, with the tan markings the same as on the black and tan. White hairs are unacceptable according to breed standards.

Care and Feeding      The Beauceron has a voracious appetite but is prone to bloat, so feed two or three small meals a day rather than one large meal. Many Beauceron owners advocate feeding this breed a home-cooked diet including lean meat, vegetables and grains.
     Beaucerons do not require a great deal of grooming. Occasional brushing is sufficient most of the time, with more frequent brushing needed when shedding. Baths should be given as needed. Beaucerons have double dewclaws on their hind legs. These must not be removed if the dog is to be shown. If kept as a pet, removal is optional.
     Annual checkups will help keep your Beauceron healthy. Vaccinations are due as follows:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
• Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster
  

     Beaucerons shed moderately, so if they are kept indoors regular vacuuming is important.

Housing Your Dog      Beaucerons may be kept in small spaces, but they must get plenty of exercise. They should ideally have a large fenced yard to run in.

Social Behaviors     Socialization at a young age is crucial for Beaucerons. When properly socialized, they do very well with children and will tolerate strangers when they see that they are welcome. They can get along with other pets of all types.

Handling and Training      Training the Beauceron requires firmness, but its intelligence makes this breed a quick study. As long as the Beauceron is taught who is the master, he will be happy to obey.

Activities      Beaucerons need lots and lots of exercise. They should be taken on long walks each day. They are happiest when they have a job to do and space to run off-leash.

Breeding/Reproduction      When selecting a mate for your Beauceron, check bloodlines for hip problems. This is the primary concern for the breed.

Common Health Problems      Hip dysplasia is the most common hereditary concern in Beaucerons. Bloat can also be a problem. It is important to know the signs and be prepared to take your dog to the vet quickly if they appear. Feeding two or three small meals a day instead of one large one goes a long way toward preventing bloat.

Availability      Beaucerons are very hard to find in the United States. Prices are usually in excess of $1,000.

References "Beauceron", Dog Breed Info Center, Copyright 1998-2008
"Is Dog Food Good for My Beauceron?", Copyright Beauceron-Dog.com, Referenced online, 2008
Cusick, William D., "What to Feed an Australian Shepherd", Referenced online, 2008
"Beauceron Puppies for Sale", Copyright PuppyFind.com, LLC, Referenced online, 2008
"Beauceron", Wikipedia, Copyright 2008

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