Caring for a Bouvier des Flandres
Bouviers are affectionate and loyal, making them great companions, especially for families. They’re typically patient with children, but they need early and consistent training due to their intelligence and strong-willed nature. As puppies, they are energetic and must learn how to stay calm around people and other pets early on. Since they are herding dogs, Bouviers have a lot of energy that needs to be channeled through both physical and mental activities. Without sufficient exercise, they can become destructive, so it’s recommended to give them at least two hours of daily exercise.
The Bouvier’s double coat is waterproof and serves as a protective layer, with medium-length rough fur over a soft, dense undercoat. Although they shed moderately, brushing them once or twice a week will help control shedding and prevent matting. Bouviers only need a bath when their coats become dirty, but their beards often require more frequent cleaning.
Health Concerns for the Bouvier des Flandres
While the Bouvier des Flandres is generally a healthy breed, they are predisposed to several health conditions. It’s essential to choose a breeder who ensures their dogs are PennHIP-certified and free from genetic diseases. Here are some common health issues that affect Bouviers:
Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)
Bouviers are prone to bloat, where their stomach fills with gas, causing discomfort and a distended abdomen. Although treatable, bloat can sometimes lead to GDV, a life-threatening condition in which the stomach twists and cuts off blood circulation. Immediate surgery is required in such cases. To reduce the risk of bloat and GDV, consider the following:
- Opt for a gastropexy procedure during spay or neuter surgery.
- Feed your dog smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoid using elevated food bowls.
- Prevent exercise an hour before and after eating.
Degenerative Myopathy
Degenerative myopathy is an inherited muscle disorder that causes difficulty swallowing, leading to dehydration, weight loss, and potentially aspiration pneumonia. Unfortunately, there is no cure, and humane euthanasia is often considered to prevent suffering. Responsible breeders avoid breeding dogs with a history of degenerative myopathy.
Eye Conditions
Bouviers may develop eye problems like cataracts and glaucoma. Cataracts cause cloudiness in the lens, potentially impairing vision, and may require surgery to remove. Glaucoma, on the other hand, increases pressure in the eyes and can lead to blindness without medical intervention.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Bouviers are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, inherited conditions where the joints don’t align properly, leading to pain and arthritis. Depending on the severity, dysplasia can be managed with supplements, medication, or surgery.
Hypothyroidism
This endocrine disorder affects the thyroid’s ability to produce hormones, causing weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues. While common in Bouviers, hypothyroidism is manageable with medication.
Laryngeal Paralysis
In this condition, the folds of the larynx don’t open properly when the dog breathes, leading to respiratory distress. Laryngeal paralysis can be diagnosed by a veterinarian and treated with surgery.
Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC)
EIC is an inherited disorder that affects a dog’s hind limbs, causing weakness and collapse after intense exercise or excitement. It often starts in puppies under 1 year old and can lead to life-threatening heat strokes if not managed.
Subaortic Valvular Stenosis (SAS)
SAS is a genetic heart condition where fibrous tissue obstructs blood flow in the heart. Dogs with severe cases can experience fatigue, fainting, and sudden death. This condition is detectable during a routine physical exam, as affected dogs often have heart murmurs.
Feeding a Bouvier des Flandres

What to Feed
Bouvier puppies grow quickly, so it’s important to feed them high-quality puppy food specifically designed for large breeds until they’re about a year old. Once they reach adulthood, they should transition to a large-breed adult formula that provides the right balance of nutrients without causing weight gain.
How to Feed
Bouviers do best with two meals per day—once in the morning and once in the evening. If your dog tends to eat quickly, a slow-feeding device can help prevent regurgitation and reduce the risk of GDV.
How Much to Feed
Follow the feeding instructions on your dog food packaging or consult your vet to ensure you’re feeding the right amount based on your Bouvier’s age, health, and activity level. Bouviers are prone to weight gain, so it’s essential to measure their food and keep treats to no more than 10% of their diet.
Nutritional Tips
Although Bouviers should get all their essential nutrients from AAFCO-approved dog food, they’re prone to joint issues and obesity. Your vet may suggest starting a joint supplement early on to help prevent arthritis, but never give your dog supplements without veterinary approval.
Training and Behavior Tips
Personality
Bouviers are intelligent, energetic dogs that thrive when given a job. Whether it’s herding, competing in dog sports, or going on family hikes, they need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. They enjoy being around children and other large dogs but may have a strong prey drive, so early socialization is important if you have cats or smaller pets.
Behavior
Bouviers are affectionate and loyal, forming strong bonds with their families. However, they can be wary of strangers and may bark at new people. Early socialization helps them feel more comfortable in new situations and prevents overly protective behavior.
Training
Bouviers are smart and loyal, making them relatively easy to train. Puppy training, obedience classes, and socialization are all essential in helping them learn how to behave around children, avoid jumping on people, and stay calm inside the home.
Fun Activities for Bouviers
- Tracking
- Hiking
- Running
- Herding trials
- Obedience training
- Neighborhood walks
Grooming Guide
Coat Care
The Bouvier’s double coat sheds moderately and can become matted if not regularly brushed. To avoid this, brush them once or twice a week. Their long beards also need regular cleaning to remove dirt and prevent tangling.
Skin and Eye Care
Bouviers should only be bathed when necessary. While they don’t require special skin treatments, it’s important to monitor their eyes for tear staining and any signs of eye conditions.
Ear Care
Due to their large ear canals, Bouviers are prone to ear infections. Clean their ears every two to three weeks or after swimming, and seek veterinary care if you notice signs of infection like head shaking or excessive ear scratching.
Nail Care
Regular nail trims every three to four weeks will prevent overgrowth, splitting, or breaking, keeping your Bouvier comfortable.
With proper care, the Bouvier des Flandres can be a loving, loyal companion that thrives in an active and stimulating environment.