Beauceron

Herding Group

Also known as: Berger de Beauce, Bas Rouge

Size Category:Giant
Height:♂ 25.5-27.5 inches♀ 24-26.5 inches
Weight:70-110 pounds
Life Span:10-12 years
Compare Beauceron

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

ⓘ

Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

ⓘ

Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • ●Beauceron grooming requires minimal effort but demands attention to shedding and coat maintenance
  • ●Short, dense double coat (soft undercoat + rough outer coat) needs weekly brushing, escalating to daily during heavy shedding seasons (twice yearly) using a medium-bristle brush, rubber mitt, or hound glove
  • ●Regular brushing removes dead hair and stimulates new growth to reduce fur on furniture
  • ●Nails must be trimmed regularly to prevent pain, mobility issues, and complications from overly long growth
  • ●Rear double dewclaws also require trimming
  • ●Overlooking grooming leads to excessive shedding and potential discomfort for the dog.

Colors & Markings

Colors

Black & TanGray Black & TanBlack & RustHarlequin

Health Information

Large, deep-chested breeds like the Beauceron face bloat risk, a dangerous stomach condition requiring urgent awareness and action. Reputable breeders prioritize health testing for hip dysplasia, heart issues, eye disorders, and allergies to ensure genetic soundness. Regular ear checks and dental care are essential for maintaining a Beauceron’s well-being, as with all breeds.

Recommended Health Tests

Hip EvaluationCardiac ExamOphthalmologist Evaluation

📜 History

The Beauceron, or Berger de Beauce and Bas Rouge, originates from France’s Beauce region southwest of Paris, developed in the late Middle Ages. Known for versatility, this breed has served as a soldier, bodyguard, rescuer, herder, and loyal companion, earning admiration across Europe and North America for its intelligence and gentle temperament. In the 19th century, Beaucerons were distinguished from Briards at the 1863 Paris Exposition, featuring black-and-rust coats, upright ears, and a wolflike frame—though earlier versions had narrower muzzles and rougher fur. Officially classified in 1896, the Beauceron was named for its shorter coat, while the Briard retained its longer hair. The breed’s official club, Club des Amis Du Beauceron, formed in 1922. Beaucerons excel as independent herders, working calmly at a distance from livestock without causing stress. Their military history includes WWI trench warfare, where their agility and courage were documented, even in enemy hands. Celebrated by French writer Colette, the breed’s sensitivity and loyalty made it a cherished family member, blending strength with emotional depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Beauceron can be good with children if properly socialized. They are generally friendly but may have their limits when it comes to rough handling.
Yes, Beaucerons are known to shed quite a bit. You'll likely need to brush them frequently and accept some dog hair in your home.
The Beauceron has average trainability. They can learn commands well but might require consistent repetition and motivation.
The Beauceron requires moderate grooming. Brushing a couple of times a week should keep their coat in good condition.
The Beauceron is generally recommended for experienced owners. Their specific needs for training, energy management, or grooming can be challenging for a first-time dog parent.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Beauceron

Bouvier des Flandres

Bouvier des Flandres

8/10
80% Compatibility
Bearded Collie

Bearded Collie

6/10
60% Compatibility
Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dog

6/10
60% Compatibility
Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois

6/10
60% Compatibility
Compare Beauceron with Bouvier des Flandres

Overview

About This Breed

The Beauceron is a highly intelligent, loyal, and devoted breed with a gentle and faithful temperament. They are known for their calm demeanor and strong protective instincts, making them excellent companions for those who can provide both mental and physical stimulation. Their exuberance and energy require consistent training and engagement to prevent boredom or unwanted behaviors.

🎭Temperament

FearlessFriendlyIntelligentProtectiveCalm

Purpose

Herding, soldier, bodyguard, rescuer, competitor, and companion

Breed for

Boar herding, hunting, guarding

Best Suited For

Active families or experienced owners with ample time for exercise and training

Ideal Owner Profile

The Beauceron is best suited for an experienced, active owner or family who can provide daily physical and mental challenges, firm but fair training, and a structured environment.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with heavy shedding, especially during seasonal changes, and managing their high energy levels and exuberant behaviors like jumping or mouthing through consistent training.

Trust & Transparency

About Our Data

At BreedsFinder, every breed profile and comparison is created using reliable, publicly available data from recognized canine organizations and trusted breed resources.

Accuracy Assured

Our breed data is standardized using a consistent scoring system across temperament, trainability, and care needs to ensure fair comparisons based on the same criteria.

Experience & Care

BreedsFinder focuses on practical, real-world guidance. While well-researched, our content is educational and should not replace advice from certified professionals.

Transparency

We regularly update information as new data becomes available. Our goal is to provide an honest, helpful resource for researching dog breeds and adoption decisions.