Personal impressions, reviews from owners, translations of articles and other interesting information

A new pet in the family is always a joy, and a purebred dog today is also considered a source of special pride for its owners. A pet often becomes an excellent guard of its own home; its protective qualities can also be useful in the service. But before you bring a dog into your home, you should carefully study the history of the breed, character traits, ability to train and, most importantly, inquire about the breed’s attitude towards children and other pets. The French Shepherd Beauceron will be an excellent choice for those who value endurance, strength of character and devotion to their owner in four-legged dogs.

History of the Beauceron breed

The Beauceron is a purebred French shepherd that has never crossed with other breeds throughout its existence. The exact origin of this dog today cannot be established, but many experts are inclined to believe that its ancestor is the French turf dog. Others argue that the Beauceron breed originated from wild wolves and, in the process of evolution, acquired modern characteristic features.

Beauceron French Shepherds have never been crossed with other breeds, which is why they are a type of purebred dog breed.

However, the first mention of the dog dates back to 1578. Later, in the 18th-19th centuries, when French agriculture was experiencing the heyday of sheep breeding, the Beauceron gained popularity as an excellent guard dog.

Two dogs could cope with guarding a flock of 200–300 heads of sheep. Their endurance made it possible to accompany the herd throughout the day, covering distances of 70–80 km. The French professor of zoology, veterinarian Jean-Pierre Menin, in his book about army dogs for their guard functions, first nicknamed this breed “Beauce shepherds” (from the French berger de Beauce, Beauce is the region in France where the breed originated).

The Beauceron is a guard breed capable of guarding flocks of several hundred sheep.

In 1863, the first dog show was organized in Paris. There, a previously unknown dog of rural origin, the Beauceron, was presented. Despite its proud posture and stern, direct gaze, this breed did not receive the general attention of exhibition visitors, which is not surprising: miniature dogs or hunting greyhounds aroused much more interest at that time. However, the “Boss shepherds” were still officially recognized in 1863. Their other name, which is still preserved in some places, is “red stockings” (French bas rouge), obtained due to the reddish-red color of the bottom of the paws, which was better remembered then.

In 1896, the already known Jean-Pierre Menin, farmer and owner of herding dogs Emmanuel Boulet and the French Minister of Agriculture Ernest Menod gathered in the village of Villette to set standards for the Bosque shepherd breed. Then the main division of one breed into two was made: long-haired herding dogs began to be called Briard shepherd dogs (berger de Brie - Brie shepherd, where Brie is a region in France), and the name Beauceron was finally assigned to the smooth-haired ones.

The French Briard Shepherd is a long-haired analogue of the Beauceron breed.

Later, the French Shepherd Dog Club was formed in France, and in 1911 Jean-Pierre Menin organized the French Club of Friends of the Beauceron (Club les Amis du Beauceron), which was engaged in maintaining the characteristics of the breed and popularizing it among dog lovers. However, over time, sheep farming ceased to be a popular branch of agriculture, and the main area in which the Beaucerons were involved began to disappear. Concerned about preserving the existence of the breed, the Friends of the Beauceron Club began to introduce herding shepherd dogs as guard dogs to protect homes and people.

During World War II, French Shepherds were often used by the military to transmit information, search for mines, and track saboteurs. After this, there were only 50 such dogs left in the world. But thanks to breeders, the popularity of the breed began to increase in the second half of the last century, and today they are actively used as companions, service and military dogs, and also, as before, guard dogs. Now there are more than 7,000 of them worldwide.

The Beauceron is a breed that copes well with the duties of a watchman and companion, capable of protecting the home and family members from attacks by intruders.

It was only in the early 2000s that Beaucerons first appeared outside of France. In 2003, the American Beauceron Club appeared in the United States. However, this breed, unfortunately, never gained much popularity overseas.

Brief historical background

The exact origin of Boerboels is extremely difficult to establish; there are several options for the development of events, covering different time periods (starting from 5-6 thousand years ago) . According to one version, these dogs first appeared in Asia, from there they were brought to the territories of Ancient Egypt and Ancient Assyria, and then they migrated to Ancient Greece and gradually settled throughout Europe. Alexander the Great was directly involved in this, and he was given giant dog warriors as a gift (the exact number is even given - 156 pieces).

However, according to other sources, on the contrary, European animals came to the African continent and there they already mixed with local canines. As a result of natural selection and harsh living conditions, only the hardiest, healthiest and strongest individuals remained, which became the ancestors of modern Boerboels.

The fact that a group of European settlers (from Denmark, Holland, etc.) moved to the Cape Peninsula (Cape of Good Hope) in the mid-17th century, one of whom was a certain J. Van Riebeeck, is considered historically and documented. He brought with him a large mastiff-like dog - a Bulenbeiser. Other settlers also brought dogs to protect people and livestock from wild animals, as well as for hunting and even for carrying cargo. The animals crossed with each other and with local aboriginal dogs. As a result, a large and strong breed was formed with a large admixture of mastiff blood, used primarily for guard service and protection.

The settlers brought dogs with them for guarding and protection.

By the beginning of the 20th century, the number of Boerboels was declining sharply, as most farmers moved to large cities, where there was no need to keep such large dogs. The breed was on the verge of complete extinction. In the 80s of the last century, thanks to the efforts of Jeannie Bouvier and Lucas van der Merwe, it was revived. In 1990, the South African Boerboel Breeders Association was created, and five years later in 2004, a similar organization appeared in the United States. However, none of the major cynological federations still recognizes this breed.

As a result of the activities of unscrupulous breeders seeking material gain, low-quality puppies with an unstable, vicious and aggressive character appeared. These dangerous animals have gained notoriety and are considered fighting animals. In some countries, such as Denmark, breeding Boerboels is prohibited by law.

Characteristics of breed standards

In the century since the registration of the Friends of the Beauceron Club in France, the basic characteristics of the breed have been reassessed only 6 times. The last amendment was made in 2001, so the appearance of the shepherd dog has remained virtually unchanged since its first mention in the 16th century. The main difference in standards was that earlier ear cropping was considered necessary, but today most veterinarians urge abandoning this procedure, since it makes no sense.

If earlier cropping of ears in the Beauceron breed was considered necessary, today it is quite rare to find a French shepherd dog with cropped ears.

Ear cropping in dogs of fighting and hunting breeds was previously done so that during fights with other dogs and wild animals this part of the body would be less susceptible to wounds and tears. Today, this procedure is not necessary, unless the dog owner himself wants to make the pet’s appearance more aggressive and aristocratic.

The Beauceron breed is reminiscent of the Doberman in many ways, only these dogs look a little larger in body, with more hair and are kinder in appearance. Many people believe that it was French shepherd dogs that were used to develop the Doberman breed.

Table: basic standards for the Beauceron breed, approved in 2001

A true specialist will always be able to determine how accurately the dog matches the breed. Any deviations are considered a defect, and such pets are not suitable for exhibitions. Among the flaws of the breed are:

• excessive inward turning of the hind legs;
• light eyes (lighter than dark walnut color) and heterochromia in black and red Beaucerons;
• nose with a cleft;
• ears that are too erect;
• non-standard color (for example, when there is more marble gray color than black);
• nonspecific behavior (timidity, excessive aggression).

Photo gallery: main external characteristics of the Beauceron breed

The Beauceron's croup is slightly sloping

The coat of dogs can be either black-red (black with tan), or “harlequin” type - black-gray (sometimes marbled) with red tan.

Double dewclaws on the paws are a characteristic feature of the Beauceron.

The Beauceron's gaze is always direct, open and very intelligent.

The ears of Beauceron dogs should be semi-erect or drooping.

When at rest, the dog's tail is usually lowered; when moving, it can rise horizontally to the level of the croup.

Character of the Beaucerons

Beaucerons are quite proud and willful, it is difficult to force them to do something if they don’t want to, but with proper training their character becomes more flexible. Such dogs are always loyal to their owner, the family in which they grew up, but servility, which is often found in mongrels, is not their characteristic feature. Beaucerons are balanced, not hysterical. These are quite sociable dogs, capable of companion service. But we need to remember their origin and historical occupation - guarding functions forced dogs to bite sheep in order to direct them in the right direction. Without training, innate instincts can negatively affect your attitude towards people. Plus, Beaucerons have leadership qualities, and if you don’t initially put yourself in charge of the dog, this can play a cruel joke on the owner.

Beaucerons are good companions and also excel at military service and guard duties.

These dogs are very smart, but cautious and are always wary of strangers. If a person, especially one whom they see for the first time, shows aggression, then they may pay for it. Beaucerons do not tolerate cruelty.

The French Shepherd Dog loves children, but, again, it is worth remembering its innate instincts. Getting to know the child should take place gradually, and then their friendship will be strong. However, it would still be better to accustom children not to an adult Beauceron, but to a puppy. And the baby needs to be taught that you should always treat a dog with caution, don’t pull its fur, don’t hit it. It is better not to leave a small child alone with a dog.

Beaucerons get along well with children, but it is better not to leave the dog alone with very young children.

The Beauceron is a very energetic, active breed. Lack of training, a favorite pastime—cross-country running, or the required number of walks—can make a dog disobedient and aggressive. Only the splashing out of energy makes this shepherd a devoted dog.

Video: characteristics of the Beauceron breed

How to choose a puppy

If you want to have a purebred pet, then it is better to choose a puppy. Firstly, this way the dog will get used to its owners faster, and secondly, if there are small children in the house, it will be easier to accustom the four-legged friend to the presence of a small person in the house, and there is a high probability that they will become strong friends.

Before you choose a Beauceron puppy, you need to decide exactly whether this breed is really suitable for you.

The French Shepherd Dog is a fairly large dog. At the same time, she has no place on the street - an ordinary dog ​​house for a Beauceron will not suit her. There should be enough space in the house or apartment for this pet. The size of the dog also indicates how much it will eat (it must be taken into account that cheap food will have a very bad effect on the pet’s health, and complementary feeding with meat and other natural products is mandatory). In addition, your dog should be given vitamins and minerals regularly. You will also have to invest in veterinarian services, the purchase of bedding (bed), collar and muzzle, plates and drinking bowls, toys and even clothes for the dog.

If you are planning to buy a Beauceron puppy, remember that he will still need to buy toys, collars, change the water bowl and bedding: the costs will be multiple.

If the owners are often not at home, you need to check with your friends in advance whether they will be willing to take in a large dog for a while. Unfortunately, there are few such people, so you often have to resort to the services of a foster home or a special dog hotel.

You need to know that the Beauceron will not grow and educate itself: this dog constantly needs training and walking, it needs to be given a lot of time. In addition, the French Shepherd may not get along with a person who is insecure or too cruel.

The Beauceron will always need frequent walks and constant training, so expect a lot of free time to be spent raising the dog.

If you have finally decided that you need a dog of this particular breed, and you have all the conditions for keeping it, decide what purpose it will serve: companionship and home protection (pet class), breeding the breed (breed class) or participation in exhibitions and competitions with procreation (show class). In the first case, a Beauceron puppy that does not meet all the requirements of the breed (with flaws) is suitable. Puppies of the breeding class must necessarily meet the parameters of the Beauceron breed, but external features may not allow them to participate in exhibitions. Show-class dogs must look impeccable, not to mention conforming to the characteristics of the breed. They often become champions, and puppies of such pets are very expensive.

The most expensive Beauceron puppies are those that belong to the show class: in the future they will win many competitions and conquer dog shows

Decide for yourself what gender of pet you want to have. It is worth remembering that male dogs are more valuable at an exhibition. They do not go into heat and will never bear offspring. At the same time, there is an opinion that males are less amenable to training, they are more aggressive, and in search of females they can run far from home if they are poorly monitored. Female Beaucerons are more devoted to humans, they bond faster, are highly trainable, and are better amenable to training. But bitches often go into heat, and in addition, they can give birth to offspring, which for some owners can become a headache. Beauceron females are inferior to males at various shows.

When choosing a Beauceron puppy, think about whether it is worth getting a female: they may be more devoted and amenable to training, but frequent heats and litters can become your headache

Next, decide on the kennel where you are going to get the dog. It is advisable that he specialize in this breed, and that the reviews about him are extremely good. Ask the breeder in detail about the puppy’s parents, the presence of genetic diseases, vaccinations, how often and what exactly the puppy eats.

A good nursery owner will be happy to answer questions. His irritation is not a good sign, try choosing other breeders. It would be nice to chat with other Beauceron owners.

Carefully study the puppy's pedigree, it is advisable to get to know its parents and their grown puppies from another litter. Clarify the relationship between the bitch and the male: close relationship can have a negative impact on genetics. Inspect the place where the puppy grows: it should be clean, the floor should be hard and non-slip. An unpleasant smell in the room is a bad sign: either it is poorly cleaned, or one of the dogs is sick. The drinking bowl, food plate and sleeping mat should also be kept clean. Puppies should have enough space for outdoor play.

Get to know the puppy: he should be playful, active, and open to communication. A healthy baby's nose, eyes and ears are always clean. The body of a small Beauceron is ideally dense, but the stomach is not swollen (which may indicate illness), and the puppy itself shows a good appetite.

When choosing a puppy, watch him: the dog should be playful and healthy in appearance

Ask the breeder about the puppy's personality. A good nursery owner will definitely know these key points. Look at how a little Beauceron treats his brothers and sisters - this can tell a lot about his characteristics.

A puppy should be adopted at the age of 2 to 6 months, neither younger nor older: it is at this time that it will be easier for him to adapt to people, and especially to children.

To evaluate the baby’s courage, you can throw something on the floor: the loud sound will cause cowardly puppies to run away, and the brave ones will approach the fallen object with interest. Fearlessness is a trait of true Beaucerons. Otherwise, the dog must be selected according to the approved breed standards described above.

It is best to take a puppy between the ages of 2 and 6 months: this will make it easier for them to adapt to the family, and especially to children

Care and maintenance of the Beauceron

Beaucerons have a double coat, so they can withstand the cold well.

Breeder's observations: Our dogs live in enclosures with insulated kennels. They grow a fairly thick undercoat and withstand the winter well.

It is more difficult to tolerate heat, in particular because they are dark in color. In the summer we go to the river, there are basins of water around the site, and there is a place in the shade for dogs.

Grooming is the same as for other shepherds. Of course, when the Beauceron sheds, there will be hair in the house, and the dog needs to be combed. But in general, caring for a Beauceron is not difficult at all.

There is a myth that the Beauceron has a very strong, specific smell. If the dog lives in an enclosure or swims in a pond, there will be a smell, but this is true for any breed. However, I asked all the owners I know who keep these dogs in their apartments as their only pets whether the Beauceron smells. The answer is always the same: “There is no smell.”

Beauceron care

A purebred dog always requires special care. And the Beauceron is no exception. Caring for a dog includes careful attention to it, starting with the hygiene of the pet and the place where it most often lives, ending with the delivery.

Features of living in an apartment

A dog as large as the Beauceron needs a lot of space. Make sure your apartment is large enough for this pet. Despite the fact that he will not rush around the room, the dog should have enough space to lie on the floor, wander around, lightly chase his favorite toy and, finally, get a good night's sleep, sweetly stretching out to his full height on a lounger. If you live in your own two-story house, it is better to place the dog on the first floor so that it does not risk damaging its paws when going down the stairs. The floors should not be slippery so that the Beauceron does not twist his paw when playing.

The Beauceron is a freedom-loving shepherd who spends most of his time outdoors. Keeping it indoors for a long time or on a chain in the yard is fraught with mental disorder of the dog, and this can become dangerous for humans.

Hygiene

The place where the Beauceron lives must be kept clean. Beds and bedding need to be changed periodically. Make sure your dog's dish and water bowl are not dirty either. Frequent cleaning of the apartment is welcome.

Dog body hygiene is also important. But despite the fact that the Beauceron, like many shepherd dogs, loves to rinse in water, you should not wash dogs of this breed too often: it is advisable to carry out the procedure no more than twice a month.

Of course, washing is better in warm water using special shampoos for dogs; human shampoos should never be used - the dog’s body may have an unpredictable reaction to them. A shower for a shepherd can be organized both in the bathroom and outside using a hose.

The Beauceron can be washed in the bathtub or hosed down with warm water outside.

After each walk, it is advisable to rinse the Beauceron's paws and the tip of the tail under running warm water.

The dog's ears are cleaned with a cotton swab and a special product once a week.

Nutrition

Since Beaucerons are an expensive and purebred breed, their nutrition must be appropriate. If you want your dog to be healthy and energetic, to win competitions and produce good offspring, cheap food will not come in handy. It is best to pay attention to dry canned food, although natural food will be healthier. It is worth choosing premium and super-premium dry food: this way you will be sure that your pet receives the required daily share of nutrients. Despite the fact that the French Smooth-haired Shepherd is undemanding when it comes to food, its diet should be balanced. It would not be superfluous to feed with natural lean meat and boiled sea fish. You can give your pet porridge cooked in water or broth, boiled or fried vegetables . Dairy products should always be given separately from meat products, preferably at different meals.

The best super-premium dog foods according to the 2022 rating

Periodically, once every 3-4 months, the dog needs to be given a vitamin-mineral complex. This is especially important for puppies. At 3 months, their teeth begin to change; at this age, it is important to feed babies with preparations containing calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D, which affect the formation of bones and the musculoskeletal system as a whole. By six months of a dog’s life, the constant need for such mineral baits disappears.

A vitamin-mineral complex for large purebred dogs is especially necessary for puppies

An adult dog should be fed twice a day - this will be enough, a puppy - 3-4 times. If for some reason a meal was missed, the next one will still go strictly according to schedule and in the same amount, and not in double quantity.

Finding out whether your dog has enough food and whether the portion should be increased is quite simple: look at how he behaves immediately after eating, whether he licks the plate or calmly moves away from it. In the first case, it is clear that the beauceron does not have enough food, and next time you need to feed more. But you shouldn’t let your dog overeat: excess weight may appear, and the dog will become lazy and lethargic. It takes 20 minutes for a Beauceron to get enough food. Even if the dog has not touched the food, after this time the plate must be removed: a schedule is a schedule.

The plate of food should be at the height of the dog's sternum to prevent him from bending over to eat. To do this, you can purchase a special stand at the pet store.

The plate and drinking bowl should be at the level of the dog’s sternum; there are special devices and stands for this

Make sure the drinking bowl is filled with clean water. Every day it needs to be changed to a new one, preferably filtered. The drinking bowl, like the plate, should be on a stand.

Any meal should take place no later than 2 hours before training and no earlier than an hour after it: only then the food eaten will not adversely affect the dog’s health.

Walk

The Beauceron Shepherd Dog, which grew up in the French foothills, needs frequent walks, and a sedate walk in the park is not suitable for such a dog. Trail running is essential to maintaining your dog's physical and mental health. This pet must throw out its energy to the fullest, otherwise it will negatively affect its quality of life. You need to walk your Beauceron for at least 1 hour.

Long runs and agility are what are ideal for the Beauceron. True, in the latter case, you yourself also need to stock up on time, energy and patience: the game implies the active participation in this sport of both the dog and its owner.

Agility running is the best walking option for a Beauceron

Pregnancy and childbirth

If, when purchasing a puppy, you chose a Beauceron female, there is a chance that she will bear offspring twice a year.

A dog's first heat begins between six months and a year, and this period lasts from 1 to 3 weeks. The appearance of so-called false estrus is possible - this is scanty discharge in pets close to puberty. Even if mating with a male occurs at this time, fertilization will not occur. But real heat may appear after 1–2 months, and at this time the owner of the Beauceron should be especially careful.

Dog behavior during heat:

• playfulness and some disregard for the owner;
• licking the perineum;
• attracting the attention of male dogs;
• Frequent urination, which is actually marking territory.

The owner must clearly record the time from the first to the second heat. It is in the third phase of the cycle that the mating process is most favorable.

Despite their strong sexual desire, females may be aggressive towards males for the first time and not allow them to approach them. 1.5–2 weeks after the start of estrus, the spotting is replaced by a yellowish discharge. At this time, the behavior of the Beauceron Shepherd Dog changes greatly, and when they see the dogs, they take a pose of readiness for sexual intercourse, moving their tail. The loop becomes greatly enlarged, indicating strong excitement. It can last up to 1 week. This is when bitches are most ready for mating.

If there is no mating, the dog may experience a false pregnancy. In this state, she may look for a secluded place, surround herself with toys, and even experience false contractions. The owner should prevent this behavior by taking away toys and distracting the bitch. You need to reduce the amount of protein in your diet. Sometimes a false pregnancy may indicate liver disease.

Dog handlers advise allowing a female Beauceron to breed at the age of one and a half years, but some owners insist that the female be at least 2 years old.

If the mating was successful, the following symptoms may appear in the French Shepherd in the second month:

• poor appetite and toxicosis;
• lethargy, drowsiness;
• abdominal enlargement;
• swelling and lightening of the nipples.

Some of the symptoms of Beauceron pregnancy are lethargy and drowsiness.

If pregnancy is confirmed, the dog should be sharply limited in activity so that future puppies are not harmed. Every week, increase your diet by about 10%, gradually reducing the amount of proteins (meat, eggs) in it. A week before giving birth, feed your dog dairy and fermented milk products - milk, cottage cheese, cheese, and boiled vegetables. During this period, determine the place for childbirth, keep it clean, and often change the sheets on the sunbed.

The necessity of pregnancy and childbirth for a dog’s health is practically a myth. This condition represents enormous stress for the bitch’s body, which can result in many different diseases. Only perfectly healthy dogs should be allowed to breed.

2-3 days before the expected birth, you should start measuring the dog’s temperature. Its decrease to 37–37.5 °C indicates an approaching event. Decide for yourself whether you are ready to give birth yourself, or whether you should contact a veterinarian. Even if you are confident in your abilities, always have the number of a breeder or zoo doctor at hand: the whelping process may not go according to plan, and difficulties are possible where consultation with an experienced person will be necessary.

Prepare the following items:

• scissors;
• alcohol;
• sterile wipes;
• oilcloth;
• heating pad

Before giving birth, the Beauceron bitch begins to whine and scratch the wallpaper, and often urinates. There is rapid breathing and chills. Contractions soon appear, which can last from 1.5 to 24 hours. Then attempts begin, accompanied by the dog sitting down. She can also lie down. Whelping occurs within 2.5–3 hours, puppies can walk with their heads or pelvis forward. Each baby should have a placenta. If this does not happen, call your veterinarian and breeder.

Sequence of actions when giving birth to a dog

As soon as the puppy comes out, remove the mucus from the nose area and begin wiping the little Beauceron's body with a napkin. Do this carefully but quickly. Squeeze the umbilical cord so that the blood flows towards the puppy, and cut it at a distance of 2–2.5 cm from the tummy. If it starts to bleed, you can bandage it with thread. Give the baby to the bitch, she will begin to lick him, stimulating blood circulation in his body. When the second puppy is on the way, put the first one in a box so that it does not get injured. Immediately after giving birth, the pet will begin feeding newborns.

Immediately after giving birth, the Beauceron begins feeding the puppies.

After the birth is over, contact your veterinarian and ask him for answers to all your questions.

Boerboel diseases

Boerboels are a healthy and strong breed with a fairly strong immune system, but sometimes they suffer from the following congenital pathologies:

• Dysplasia (dislocation) of the elbow and hip joint. The dog is limping, in severe pain and cannot move normally. Surgical treatment relieves painful symptoms and improves quality of life. The disease is hereditary and cannot be completely cured.
• Vaginal hyperplasia (in bitches). It is expressed in thickening of the walls of the vagina and its prolapse through the loop. The animal feels pain and often licks the sore spot. In severe cases, tissue necrosis and oncology are possible, which can be fatal. If the uterus and ovaries are removed, the prognosis is good. Such individuals are clearly excluded from breeding.

Burmastiffs live about 10–12 years, sometimes longer.

Education and training

Raising a Beauceron needs to be done from childhood. Only then will the dog become obedient and accustomed to following the commands of its owner.

The most important thing here is to establish contact between the dog and the person (one of the family members). The Beauceron must trust its handler, otherwise the pet will ignore him and act distant or even aggressive. In the process of education, you should show your leadership qualities and strength of character, otherwise the dog will take on the role of owner and commander in the house. The Beauceron is an independent dog, and its upbringing must be strict. However, the “whip” method of scolding is not recommended: it can cause aggression and destructive behavior in the French Shepherd. From childhood, it is necessary to explain to the dog where its resting area is located in the house, what not to do in the rooms and how to properly ask to go outside. Wean your Beauceron from displays of impudence: he should not beg for an extra piece of treat.

The Beauceron needs to be raised from childhood, only then will the dog be obedient and accustomed to following the owner’s commands

Raising a dog of this breed requires a lot of patience. The main thing is to never allow injustice or a hostile attitude towards it: the Beauceron will forever lose confidence in the owner, and further education and training will be in vain.

You should start training in a playful way from an early age (about 3 months), as soon as you achieve complete trust from the puppy: this way the dog will be better able to respond to commands. Each pet’s success should be followed by a reward in the form of a treat, this will stimulate him to new exploits.

Beauceron training should be done in a playful way, starting from an early age.

Initially, the training of the Beauceron should be carried out in a quiet, possibly deserted place, so that the dog is not distracted by extraneous noise. As the dog gets older, you can move on to training in a specially designated area. But remember: your pet can react unpredictably to a large number of other people's dogs. Teach your Beauceron new commands, make him run and expel his energy. But do not overtire your pet, otherwise all his interest in the training process may disappear.

What kind of owner does a Beauceron need?

First of all, active. The Beauceron cannot stand boredom and idleness.

He must also be a self-confident person, patient and consistent, who understands and understands dogs, familiar at least at an elementary level with the anatomy and psychology of dogs, who is ready to learn and learn a lot of new things. For example, to all potential owners, if they have not had a dog before, I ask the question: “Will you go to a dog trainer for training?” If the answer is yes, there is a better chance that I will trust them with my puppy. But our Beauceron won’t just be at home on the couch. The Beauceron may well be suitable even as a first dog if a person is serious about studying and studying.

But if a person is not active, does not want to learn to understand his dog and work with it... I just can’t imagine how he can be entrusted with a Beauceron.

In the photo: Beauceron Dorian (Iron Will kennel) with owner Anastasia Demchuk

French Shepherd Diseases, Vaccination

The Beauceron, despite its appearance, which speaks of the dog’s power and health, is susceptible to various diseases. Among them, the most common are:

• bloating and volvulus;
• retinal atrophy;
• retinopathy;
• hip dysplasia.

Bloating is a small problem, but it is a discomfort for a dog’s life. You can solve this by starting to feed the dog strictly on a schedule. Meals should be separate, meat and fish dishes should be given separately from dairy and fermented milk. Overfeeding a Beauceron is one of the causes of bloating.

When the intestines volvulus, the Beauceron stops eating and becomes lethargic. He hardly defecates and looks very sick. If you do not contact a veterinarian in time, death is inevitable - the disease does not go away on its own.

Retinal atrophy is a very serious and practically incurable disease. At first, the Beauceron begins to see poorly or not see anything at all in the dark, then blindness appears during the day. The pupil becomes brighter and enlarged. The disease develops within just a year, and if you do not monitor your pet’s condition, the consequences will be disastrous: an advanced case involves removal of the eyeball. Today, veterinarians have drugs that can slow down retinal atrophy.

Hip dysplasia is a very common disease in the Beauceron. First, the dog begins to limp, and pain appears when walking and running. If not properly treated, the disease can lead to immobility.

X-ray showing signs of hip dysplasia in a Beauceron

All diseases of the Beauceron must be treated in a timely manner, and this must be done only with the help of an experienced specialist.

In order to prevent certain diseases (distemper, parvovirus enteritis, leptospirosis and parainfluenza), Beauceron puppies are given complex vaccinations twice: at the age of 8 and 12 weeks. Typically, drugs such as Multakan, Eurikan and Nobivak are used for vaccinations.

Before vaccination, the dog must be dewormed and eliminate parasites (fleas and lice).

Choosing a puppy

Despite the unrecognized nature of Boerboels by official canine associations, there are quite a few nurseries engaged in breeding them (Afrikan Star, Savannah Boerboule, Frome Sauce Africa, etc.). It is better to buy puppies there, since breeders guarantee the purebred of their animals, their health and mental balance, and also provide them with the entire set of necessary documents (puppy card, veterinary record with vaccination records, pedigree, etc.). Each animal from the club must be branded.

Boerboel puppies are easy to find

It is quite difficult to visually distinguish a small Boer Mastiff from related breeds or from an outbred baby that looks similar in appearance. Even an experienced dog handler cannot always cope with this task, since puppies change a lot with age.

You should not buy a Boerboel at the poultry market or through an advertisement, as the risk of getting an unbalanced and potentially dangerous pet is too great . Conscientious breeders who carry out breeding work always reject such individuals.

Price of puppies

The price of a high-quality purebred African Boerboel puppy, not intended for exhibition activities (for home, for family), varies from 40 to 50 thousand rubles. Breeding exhibition animals that do not have any defects are sold much more expensive - from 140 thousand rubles.

Quite often on dog forums I see advertisements for Burmastiff puppies for sale. One of my friends bought a so-so dog, from which God knows what grew up. Not only was the puppy overgrown and very vaguely reminiscent of a Boerboel, but he was also specifically stupid and extremely aggressive. It was completely impossible to walk with him, since he threw himself at absolutely everyone and everything (people, dogs, cars, etc.).