Bouvier des Ardennes

Originally from Belgium, the Bouvier des Ardennes has always been selected for his aptitudes. According to some, he is a cross between the Picardy Sheepdog and the Belgian Cattle Dog, while others believe that an indigenous Belgian breed evolved in the 18th century through crossbreeding with local sheepdogs.

Called "cow dog" in the Belgian Ardennes, his name doesn't come from his physique but rather from the practice of driving and guarding cattle and the region where his duties were performed.

This type of dog was fashioned at the time to withstand the harsh climate and adapt to rugged terrain and specific and arduous work of these regions.

In the last century, subjects were chosen from the most performing and hardy dogs, for herd driving, mostly sheep and dairy cows but also horses and pigs.

In the 19th century, the Bouvier des Ardennes was used to hunt wild boar and deer and became the poacher's dog during the two world wars. Towards the end of the century, he became much more biting and stronger.

An exhibition was held in Liège in 1903 where the first greyhound dog was discovered by Professor Reul and in 1913, the "Société liégeoise pour l'amélioration du chien de bouvier de la province de Liège et des Ardennes" drew up the first standard. The official standard was finally published in 1923 in Belgium and the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) recognized it in 1963.