Beauceron

The Beauceron is a large French herding dog — smooth-coated, black and tan, and traditionally carrying double dewclaws on each hind leg.

History

It comes from the plains around Paris, where it drove and guarded flocks, and was formally separated from its rough-coated counterpart the Briard at the end of the nineteenth century. It served as a military and police dog through both world wars, which shaped the breed as much as herding did.

Temperament

The breed is known for being confident, watchful and deeply loyal, with a working drive that expects a job. It matures slowly and is not a dog for a first-time owner: without direction its judgement becomes its own.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and mental work, and structured training from puppyhood. The short coat is easy to keep; the temperament requires the effort.

Health

Known tendencies include hip dysplasia and, as in many deep-chested large breeds, bloat. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.