BeauceronBas Rouge ~ Beauce Shepherd

 BeauceronBas Rouge ~ Beauce Shepherd

Common Name(s)     Beauceron, Bas Rouge, and Beauce Shepherd
Breed Type      The Beauceron is a considered a herding breed dog, as it was traditionally used for this in France where it originated. But the Beauceron is truly multi-talented. It has been used in numerous types of work from herding, protection, drafting, tracking, service dog, and more. A hardy dog, it is also adaptable to a wide variety of climates.
Background      As its name suggests, the Beauceron originated in France. It is not known exactly how old the breed is, but records appear to go back to the 1500s. It is believed that the Beauceron may have been used in the breeding of Doberman Pinschers.

Although they are known as herders, Beaucerons have been used in numerous types of work. They have been war and police dogs, guard dogs, show dogs, trackers, and watchdogs. This is a very intelligent and hard-working breed.
     Beaucerons are not well known outside of France. Originally a highly aggressive herder, selective breeding has made today's Beauceron more amicable toward humans. This has led to an increase in the number of Beaucerons found in family homes in Western Europe and North America.

Description      The Beauceron is a sleek, athletic-looking dog with a short, harsh coat. Its ears are naturally half-pricked, but are usually cropped so that they stand erect. Eyes are dark brown.
     There are two acceptable Beauceron coat colors. The black and tan Beauceron is black with tan markings above the eyes, on the bottom of the upper lip and throat, in two spots on the breast, the bottom of each leg, and under the tail. Harlequins have patches of gray, black, and tan, with the tan markings the same as on the black and tan. White hairs are unacceptable according to breed standards.

Care and Feeding      The Beauceron has a voracious appetite but is prone to bloat, so feed two or three small meals a day rather than one large meal. Many Beauceron owners advocate feeding this breed a home-cooked diet including lean meat, vegetables and grains.
     Beaucerons do not require a great deal of grooming. Occasional brushing is sufficient most of the time, with more frequent brushing needed when shedding. Baths should be given as needed. Beaucerons have double dewclaws on their hind legs. These must not be removed if the dog is to be shown. If kept as a pet, removal is optional.
     Annual checkups will help keep your Beauceron healthy. Vaccinations are due as follows:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
• Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster

     Beaucerons shed moderately, so if they are kept indoors regular vacuuming is important.
Housing Your Dog      Beaucerons may be kept in small spaces, but they must get plenty of exercise. They should ideally have a large fenced yard to run in.