The Bouvier Breed: Personal Protection Dogs with a Rich History
Although it may be difficult to imagine, it turns out that monasteries may be the ancestral home of the Bouvier dog—specifically, Flemish monasteries. It’s important to remember that, back in the Middle Ages, monasteries were constantly under threat from outside invaders. Since these religious institutions often housed some of the most important treasures of their time, they were a frequent target of Vikings and others who would loot their precious resources.
Birth of the Bouvier
It is no surprise that monks, who tended to be very peaceful people, wanted to protect themselves in some way. They knew that having the right kind of protection dogs around would help to secure their property—and their personal safety. With this in mind, they initiated a breeding program to combat the problem, importing sighthounds, Scottish deerhounds, and other dogs to mate with local farm canines. Ancestors of modern Irish wolfhounds, also imported, played a role. We carefully selected and bred these protection canines to guard monasteries and chase intruders.
The Continued Evolution of the Bouvier Dog Breed: Two Types
In the latter part of the nineteenth century, Flemish farms featured protection dogs closely resembling the modern Bouvier. All throughout the east and west regions of Flanders, these canines were evolving. However, they were two distinct types that would eventually merge into one. Bouvier des Roulers was a canine that was heralded for his height—topping off at over 27 inches—and impressively deep chest. With a wiry coat, his color would normally be gray, black, or even brindle. The Paret type of Bouvier differed in color, sometimes showing up in shades of sorrel and fawn. This dog was also about three inches shorter than the des Roulers variation, with more of a barrel chest and softer coat. Sometimes, the shape of the head would differ as well.
Personal Protection Dogs Extraordinaire: Today’s Bouvier des Flandres
In 1910, these two types finally coalesced and earned recognition as one. Over two decades later, the Bouvier des Flandres was officially registered as the protection dog. These days, the Bouvier more closely resembles its ancestor the Bouvier des Roulers. Some of the Bouvier dog’s earliest jobs on the farm included turning millstones, moving cattle, and even pulling cheese carts. Famous for their hulking size and extraordinary strength, the Bouviers of the early twentieth century were much more than just personal protection dogs; they had their work cut out for them on a daily basis. Not only were they capable of great power, but they also demonstrated impressive endurance, which was extremely useful for long days on the farm working alongside their human companions.
Farm Life and Physical Accommodations
Before they were personal protection dogs for sale, Bouvier dogs had their tails docked during their early life as puppies. This was to prevent the tail from becoming stuck in the harnesses that they used as working dogs. Ear cropping was another practical cosmetic adjustment, as having a pet dog would cause the owner to incur an extra tax. The cropped ears signified that their status as working dogs.
The World Wars: Troubling Times for the Bouvier
Unfortunately, political problems caused great trouble for the Bouvier during both world wars. World War I severely impacted Belgium, almost wiping out the entire Bouvier breed. The war-ravaged area had no breeding programs. In World War II, French breeding programs were also halted, worsening the Bouvier breed’s plight.
A History of Service—The Bouvier in Wartime
During the wars, many surviving animals, including the Bouvier, actively served by pulling supplies, ambulances, and performing battlefield duties. These protection dogs were so instrumental to the Allied efforts that Axis powers often shot them as soon as they saw them. However, all was not lost. Some people managed to hide their Bouvier dogs and continued to breed them in secret, which ended up saving them from a fate of extinction. The Bouvier dog remains renowned for its adaptability and loyalty, making it one of the most sought-after personal protection dogs for sale. With intelligence, athleticism, and strength, this incredible protection dog will remain popular for the foreseeable future.
