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Ardennes Cattle Dog (Bouvier de Ardennes)

Medium Breed

The Ardennes Cattle Dog is a hardy, well-muscled breed of great strength which is obvious in its appearance. This breed is an outstanding herder and excels as a guard, courageously defending its people, their possessions and its own territory.

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Breed standards

Country of origin

Belgium

Weight

Males approximately 28-35 kgs/61-77 lbs; Females approximately 22-28 kgs/48-61 lbs (standards may vary)

Height

Males approximately 55-63 cm/21 3/4 - 24 3/4 inches; Females approximately 51-57 cm/20 - 22 1/2 inches (standards may vary)

Coat

Long coat

Markings

All colours acceptable except white. The coat is often formed from a mixture of grey, black and fawn hairs. The colour of the undercoat varies according to the shade of the top coat.

A white mark on the chest or the tips of the toes is acceptable but not sought after.

Lifespan

Average, 11-14 years

Although a herder by nature, the Ardennes Cattle Dog is very sociable and playful and can be very affectionate with his owner, thus making the perfect companion dog.

Temperament

The Ardennes Cattle Dog shows much endurance and energy, and can be very playful and curious. He is obstinate and extremely courageous when protecting his family and their territory. The Ardennes Cattle Dog is very sociable with those familiar to him and will easily adapt to fit in with family life. Very obedient and affectionate with his owner, the Ardennes Cattle Dog makes a fine companion.

  • Poor
    Children
    Good
  • Very
    Combativeness
    Not very
  • Very
    Dominance
    Not very
  • Not very
    Friendliness
    Good
  • Not very
    Independence
    Very
  • Loud
    Noise
    Quiet
  • Not very
    Trainability
    Very

Good to know

The Ardennes Cattle Dog is a magnificent large breed dog, impressive in appearance and his strong working capabilities. Always alert and very wary of strangers, he will protect his property with great courage.

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  • Makes a wonderful family pet and companion
  • Extremely versatile and intelligent
  • Excels as a guardian
  • Adapts well to most climates
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  • Regular grooming required
  • Requires sufficient regular and daily exercise
  • Not suitable for city living
  • Does best with acreage
  • Requires sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation