Beauceron
(Beauce Shepherd, French Shorthaired Shepherd, Berger de Beauce, Bas-Rouge)
This french shepherd dog, known for his courageous temperament and strong-willed, yet easily trainable, character, is also an excellent guard dog. This energetic, dominant breed needs consistent training and plenty of exercise.
This ancient livestock guardian breed was once used to control and protect flocks of sheep in the plains around Paris. The term "Berger de Beauce" appears for the first time in 1809 to separate this short-haired type from the long-haired type, called "Berger de Brie" or "Briard".
The first Beauceron club was formed in 1911.
After the two World Wars, during which the Beauceron proved of great value as military dog, the breed's popularity spread to France's neighouring countries, as well as to the United States. The Beauceron is now increasingly used as guard dog and for police work.
This powerless, muscular working dog is very quick and agile. The coat is overall short, while the buttocks and tail are slightly fringed.
The eyes are dark and the ears are generally cropped. Natural ears are half-erect.
In addition to the four regular toes, two dewclaws are required on each hind leg.
The coat color is black with tan markings, in particular on the legs, hence the nickname of the breed "Bas Rouge", meaning "Red Stockings". A harlequin (three-colored) coat is also accepted: black, grey and the necessary tan markings.
Like most shepherd dogs carrying strong herding traits, the Beauceron will attempt to herd any group of two or more. Therefore, consistent, but gentle, training is essential with this breed, in which case the Beauceron will be one of the most loyal and obedient among dog breeds. However, lack of training or harsh treatment can easily generate neurotic behavior.
Beaucerons are highly protective of their home and can prove fearsome guard dogs. Their courage and watchfulness also make them excellent rescue and police dogs.
Their tolerant and patient temperament, make them generally well-adapted to family life. However, prospective owners should bear in mind that these dogs are primarily working dogs, which need plenty of exercise.
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Article content © The Canine Information Library 2005-2006.
Photos reproduced according to the GNU Free Documentation License, version 1.2, Wikimedia Commons.
Character and Temperament
