Beauceron – Pastoral
Image: Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock.com
The Beauceron - The Dog Breed For When A Doberman is Too Much
The Beauceron might look fierce, but they have a heart as pure as any other breed.
Image: SasaStock/Shutterstock.com
Quick Overview
Name: The Beauceron, French Shorthaired Shepherd
Size: Up to 27.5 inches tall
Weight: Up to 110 lbs
Grooming: Infrequent
Training: Highly intelligent, harsh training won’t work
Exercise: Full-on, level 10 intensity
Temperament: Intelligent and powerful protectors
Origins: France
Lifespan: Over 10 years
Breed Type: Pastoral (field dog)
A History of the Beautiful Beauceron
The Beauceron dog breed was originally bred in the southern regions of France. Known by many names, the most notable is the Bas Rouge, this ‘red-stockinged’ dog breed is one of the parents to the Doberman Pinscher, which perhaps explains the coat colour and style similarities.
This dog breed has played a hundred roles down through history. They were primarily bred to be shepherd dogs, who would watch over the herd while the master was away. This led to a strong, independent breed, capable of taking care of itself for long periods of time. They can be brooding and silent, and they can be fun-loving and goofy. This breed has everything in between… and that’s due to the versatility of their nature.
The Beauceron was big enough to be a guard dog, was used during both World Wars to help soldiers, and makes for a loving, loyal companion. They are big dogs, who need lots of exercise, and who are sharply intelligent. Up until the 1800s they were used as sheep or cattle herding dogs, and there were no breed standards. They were just known as French Shepherds, alongside what we know now as the Briard. Weirdly, the common ancestry they share is still evident in their hind legs. While most breeds have now evolved to have no dew claws, both French shepherd breeds have a double dew claw, setting them apart on an evolutionary level.
The Beauceron was mentioned in 1809 when the two were described as different for the first time by one Abbe Rozier. By 1863, the Universal Expo in Paris showcased Beaucerons who were definitely not mixed breed, and who closely resembled the dogs as we know them today. It wasn’t until 1896 that the two breeds were officially classified as being different to each other. Nowadays, if you have a short-haired French shepherd dog it is a Beauceron. If you have a long-haired French shepherd dog it is a Briard.
Nowadays, you can join the Beauceron UK club, the French have their own club, the UK Kennel Club has a breed standard set – and they have even made it to America, finding their place in the AKC. This breed is most popular in Canada and Europe though.
Fun Doggy Facts
Ah the Beauceron! Parent breed to the Doberman. What fun facts could this dog breed possibly have hidden up its figurative sleeve? Don’t panic! Five Minutes Spare already found out. Here are the best bits about this breed, presented with a fun abandon:
- The Beauceron was a land mine detection canine, a messenger dog, and a supply transport dog in WWII.
- The Bas Rouge was known for being highly effective against wolves, which still roam Europe. They would guard flocks using their intelligence and large size as a deterrent.
- A Beauceron was among one of the search and rescue pups that did such a wonderful job rescuing survivors from the 9/11 attacks.
- Black and tan, or grey, black, and tan (merle) are the only accepted types of this breed according to the standard. God knows where the Red Socks nickname came from…
And so, we have proven that yet another dog breed is monarch of the fun facts. Let’s move swiftly on, now that we all feel that little bit more enlightened…
How Often Should I Walk my Beauceron?
Every day, twice a day, for at least an hour a time. This dog can run 6 miles before you can make a cup of tea, so be warned. If you want a dog to sit around on the couch with, don’t get a Beauceron, it isn’t fair on anyone. They are a large breed with huge exercise needs. If you live in the country and have a big piece of land, they will suit you.
What About Grooming?
the Beauceron has a double coat. Dogs with a double coat have a rough, waterproofing outer layer that feels a lot like human hair. Underneath this they have a soft, fluffy, downy coat, designed to keep in the warmth. You won’t need to brush them every day although it is recommended. That double coat also means they will shed like nothing you have ever known before. You are going to be eating dog hair if you buy a Beauceron. You get used to it, don’t worry.
Are the Beauceron Dog Breed Hard to Train?
They are eager to please you and will go to great lengths to make you happy. One of the old-world breed trainers is recorded as saying that they will howl alongside your tears, which is terribly sweet for a big dog. They have tons of energy that is best spent in training so get into puppy classes ASAP. This is a big dog breed that will not respond to harsh training techniques. If you ever hear someone saying their large dog needs to be hit to comply, they are wrong and probably don’t deserve their pup.
Do They Have Many Health Problems?
They have three main areas to be concerned with. The first is in their limbs since they are so long legged. They need checked for hip dysplasia. They will need their eyes and ears tested; this is just due to being a semi-ancient breed. They will also need a vet to listen to their heart for any irregularities. If your new puppy passes all of these health checks then you are on to a good ‘un!
Where Can I Buy a Beauceron?
Choose a breeder from the recommended list at your local kennel club and report all Beauceron puppy farmers to the authorities. See this article on how to spot puppy farmers for more information.
Still Shopping for a Dog Breed for You?
If the Beauceron is a bit bigger than you had in mind, don’t trouble yourself too much. There are hundreds of breeds in the Five Minutes Spare doggy directory. Alternatively, drop us a Facebook follow to keep up-to-speed with the news in your area. Everything is possible, when you have Five Minutes Spare on your side!
