Overview
The Bouvier des Ardennes is the smaller and rougher of Belgium's two cattle dogs, bred by farmers in the Ardennes hills to drive cows and later used for hunting and tracking. It was nearly lost in the twentieth century and rebuilt from a handful of farm dogs. The look is unpolished: a square sturdy body, a tousled harsh coat, a moustache and often a natural bobtail.
Temperament follows the job. These are adaptable, curious, hard-working dogs that like to be in on the action. They are rarely seen in Britain, so an owner who has one chose it deliberately and will be a good source of detail.
Exercise and walking needs
Allow an hour and three quarters of real activity a day. The breed was made for all-weather farm work and copes with hills, mud and cold without complaint. Long, varied walks with some running suit it.
Mix in training and problem-solving. A cattle dog with nothing to think about will start organising the other dogs, or you.
On the walk
- Recall: Usually sound because the dog wants to work with you, but a herding dog dives after anything that scatters. Check it before open ground.
- Herding: Expect nudging, circling and the odd heel nip at running dogs or children. Interrupt it early and give the dog something else to do.
- Pulling: Moderate. Strong for its size but not unmanageable on a harness.
- Weather: The coat is built for Ardennes winters. Heat is the problem; carry water and keep summer walks in the cool of the day.
Tips for professional walkers
- Give the dog a task on the walk: carrying something, finding a toy or a few minutes of heelwork.
- Towel the coat at the door; it holds mud and water for a surprisingly long time.
- Keep the lead on through livestock fields even if the recall is good.
- Pair it with active, tolerant dogs that do not mind being chivvied along.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog shown any herding behaviour towards children, bikes or runners?
- Any ear or eye conditions hidden under the hair that you should look out for?
- What commands does the dog know, and is there a training routine you should keep up?