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Bouvier des Flandres
Bouvier des Flandres (French, “Flemish cowherd”), breed of herding dog, originally used in Belgium and northern France to drive cattle. They are rugged, powerfully built dogs, giving the appearance of strength without heaviness. Agile and alert, with a keen sense of smell, they make ideal farm dogs and are now used as watchdogs and guard dogs, for tracking, and as guides for the blind. Males stand 62 to 70 cm (24.5 to 27.5 in), females 60 cm to 67 cm (23.5 to 26.5 in). Weight ranges between 36 and 48 kg (80 and 105 lb). The flat head is accentuated by a beard and mustache; by high, erect ears; and by upstanding eyebrows over the dark, oval eyes. The body is short and broad, the tail usually docked. Necks, legs, and thighs are well muscled. The fawn to black outercoat is characteristically tousled and harsh to the touch; the dense undercoat, providing protection from weather, is soft and fine.
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