Beauceron

The athletic Beauceron gives an impression of strength, freedom of movement and liveliness, without heaviness. The structure is similar to that of the Belgian Malinois except the Beauceron is larger - about the size of a Doberman Pinscher. There are two coat colors, one is black-and-tan with specific tan markings, two lozenges above the eyes, tan on the bottom of the upper lip and throat, two tan spots on the breast, tan on the bottom of each leg and a tan marking in the shape of a lyre under his tail. The second is harlequin with patches of gray, black and tan. The tan is distributed as in the black-and-tan variety and there should be more black than gray. There should not be any white at all. The hair is short with longer fringes on the tail and hindquarters. The outer coat should be harsh, never soft or silky, and should be lined with a wooly, fluffy undercoat - ensuring good thermal insulation. The Beauceron has a distinctive double dewclaw on the hind legs, making six toes per rear foot. The dewclaws must not be removed if the dog is to be shown. The ears are generally cropped, in which case they stand erect. Natural ears should be half-pricked with one-third of the ear erect. The fringed tail reaches at least to the hocks and is carried low in the shape of a letter "J." The eyes are dark, horse chestnut color with a proud and serious expression.

The Beauceron is a brave, faithful and highly intelligent dog. Fearless, vigilant, and patient, the Beauceron has an aptitude for obedience training and is known for his quick and thorough understanding of his master's desires. They are an excellent natural guard dog whose appearance and demeanor command respect. The Beauceron is happiest when it is working or exercising in wide-open spaces. They are instinctive herders who will herd everything in sight unless trained to do otherwise. Calm, obedient and very loyal, the Beauceron is always eager to please its master. They like to know who is boss and then they follow. They are generally good with children if they are raised with them from puppyhood, although this large energetic breed can be overwhelming to a small child. Even as a puppy at 3 months old it can weight 40 pounds. The Beauceron can be very protective. Thorough training with a firm master is absolutely necessary. The Beauceron will obey commands from all members of the family if trained to do so. This breed is sociable with dogs they know, but they are highly territorial and will not tolerate an intruder. They should not be left alone for long periods of time. Puppies are very active and slow to mature. The Beauceron should be properly and thoroughly socialized. A Beauceron that has been well socialized and brought up gets along fine under normal circumstances with children, and that also ensures that other dogs and pets will present no problems. They generally get along well with cats if they are introduced to them at an early age.