
	PETS AND ANIMALS

Beauceron Dog Breed

The Beauceron is a herding dog breed from France. He is also known as the Berger de Beauce, the Bas Rouge, or the French short-haired shepherd. A very versatile breed, the Beauceron was once used to hunt wild boar. It served in both World Wars as a messenger dog, a supply transport dog, and in detection of mines and rescue of the wounded. In addition, the Beauceron has strong herding traits and capability. This muscular and energetic breed is described as intelligent, calm, aloof, and very protective of children.

The Beauceron is a big, hardy, powerful, well built and muscular herding and guarding dog of French origin. He is believed to share heritage with Briard. In fact, for centuries the long-haired Briard and the short-haired Beauceron were thought to be two varieties of the same herding breed. Today, the Beauceron is gaining recognition around the world as competent guard dog and protector. He has a most keen sense of smell and during the World War II he was used as mine detection dog and on the front lines to run messages as he was undeterred by exploding bombs or military fire.
Beaucerons were also used to pick up trails, detect mines, find the wounded and carry food and ammunition to the front lines. Highly trainable and always willing to work, Beaucerons are used by the French police and Army in apprehension of criminals (tracking and bite work), personal protection, narcotics detection, riot control, search and rescue, body recovery, prison security and secured escort.

One of the most attractive traits of Beauceron is the remarkable stability of his character. If he proved to be a gentle and loving family companion in the four to five years of his life, he will never become aggressive and turn against a member of his family.

Photo courtesy of Club Suisse des Amis du Beauceron (http://www.beauceron.ch/)

Beauceron Breed Outline

FCI Official Name:	Berger de Beauce
Other names:	Beauce Sheep Dog, Bas Rouge (Red-Stocking)
Origin:	France
FCI Classification:	Group 1: Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs); Section 1: Sheepdogs (with working trial.)
Utilization:	Sheepdog and Guard Dog
AKC Classification:	Miscellaneous Class
Size:	Large
Height:	up to 28 inches at shoulders
Colors:	Black with tan markings; Harlequin (blue-mottled with tan markings). A small while spot on the chest is allowed.
Average Litter Size:	6
Life Span:	10-12 years
Personality:	Self-assured, gentle, patient and fearless.
Grooming Requirements:	His short and smooth coat with a dense undercoat requires minimum grooming. An occasional brushing will enhance its natural, healthy appearance.
Shedding:	Medium
Social skills:	Usually gets along with other dogs and animals in the household. Highly territorial and will not tolerate strange dogs.
Suitability for Children:	Gentle, loving and very protective of children, if raised with them. Puppies grow fast and are very energetic.
Exercise Needs:	The Beauceron needs plenty of vigorous exercise. These dogs need lots of attention to keep their minds busy.
Train Ability:	Beaucerons are highly trainable and quick to learn. Known for his intense desire to understand and follow commands of his master. Many Beauces are "one-person" dogs and need to be trained to follow commands of other members of the family. Beaucerons have proven their worth in many canine sports, including Schutzhund, French Ring Sport, Agility and Tracking.
Health Issues:	Hip dysplasia, PRA, bloat, entropion