The Beauceron is the largest of the French Sheepdogs.
Alternate Names
Bas Roughe (Red Stocking)
Beauce Shepherd
Berger De Beauce
French Shorthaired Shepherd
Also known as the “country gentleman” and often referred to as “the king of sheepdogs.”
Appearance:
Body: Rectangular-shaped and well-boned with a deep, wide chest and medium length sloping shoulders.
Coat: Short and close, straight, hard, dense, and weather-resistant with a dense undercoat.
Color: Black and tan, black with or without patches of grayish merle-speckling (harlequin).
Ears: Highly set, flat and short. Found both cropped or naturally hung.
Eyes: Round and dark. Color varies with the color of the coat.
Feet: Strong, round and hard with black nails.
Head: Long with a slightly domed skull, prominent occiput and slightly curved nose with black nostrils and tight lips.
Legs: Forelegs and hind legs are powerful, well-boned and trim.
Neck: Muscular, tightly skinned (no dewlap) and carries the head proudly..
Size:
Weight: 66 – 85 pounds (30 – 38.5kg) they have been known to weigh as much as 105 pounds.
Height: 24 – 27.5 inches (61 – 70cm)
Tail: Low set with an upward swirl at the tip and abundant feathering.
Behavior
Recommended for experienced handlers.
Not recommended for apartment or urban life.
Beaucerons are a large, powerful, and highly energetic dog. They’re intelligent and confident with a calm, but serious, disposition and will be loyal to, and protective of, family and children. When he isn’t patrolling his domain, he will often lie in a obscure location of his yard, keenly keeping an eye of all that is going on around him.
Family, children, and other pets are welcome within the Beauceron realm, but he is a territorial dog and may not readily welcome other animals or strangers in if not introduced to socialization at an early age. The Beauce Shepherd was bred to protect and will lunge at the neck of any animal perceived to be a danger to his flock (family) or unwanted in his territory. Early socialization will help to control this instinctive behavior.
This is an easily trainable and obedient dog but, as is true for most dogs that are bred to work independent of their master, they are capable of thinking for themselves. This makes the Beauceron best suited for an experienced handler. Their master must be able to devote a great deal of time and energy to keep this breed mentally and physically fit.
Breed Type
AKC Group: Miscellaneous Group
The Beauceron was originally bred in France to herd sheep and cattle . Later, when herding was less of a need, they were used to protect the home and family. They were also used during war times to deliver messages and for detecting mines.
Beaucerons are also used for search-and-rescue missions by the police and the military.
Two Beauce shepherd dogs are capable of herding and protecting 200-300 sheep.
Care and Grooming
Exercise: An abundance of exercise and mental stimulation is needed for this breed. Be sure you are able to devote a great deal of time to outdoor activities and to providing challenging games for this dog before considering owning one.
Grooming: Easily maintained with a weekly brushing.
Health
Life Expectancy: 11 – 12 Years
A generally healthy breed of dog
Possible Problems:
Bloat
Hip Dysplasia
Country of Origin
France