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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.
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.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
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.
- Makes a wonderful family pet and companion
- Extremely versatile and intelligent
- Excels as a guardian
- Adapts well to most climates
- 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