The Bouvier des Flandres may be ranked 101st on the American Kennel Club’s list of the most popular dog breeds, but for those lucky enough to have one in their family, this shaggy herding dog takes the number one spot in their hearts. This beloved breed even has its own special day: National Bouvier des Flandres Day!
When is National Bouvier des Flandres Day?
Celebrated on January 16th, National Bouvier des Flandres Day was established in 2020 by TheWoofBook, a popular Facebook group for dog lovers.
Fun Facts About the Bouvier des Flandres
To honor the day, here are some fascinating facts about this remarkable breed:
- Heroic Service: During World War I, Bouvier des Flandres dogs were enlisted to assist injured soldiers and serve as messengers. Today, many still work in roles such as police and guard dogs.
- Nic, the War Hero: One of the courageous Bouvier des Flandres who helped Belgian troops during World War I was a dog named Nic. After surviving three years in the trenches, Nic became a champion show dog and is now considered the father of modern Bouvier des Flandres.
- Near Extinction: The breed nearly vanished during both World War I and World War II.
- Meaningful Names: The name “Bouvier des Flandres” translates to “cow herder of Flandres,” reflecting the breed’s original job. Other names include “koehond” (cow dog) and “toucher de boeuf” (cattle driver), while “vuilbaard” (dirty beard) refers to their distinctively shaggy appearance.
- Flanders Connection: The “Flandres” in their name honors the region of Flanders, Belgium, where the breed originated.
- Ancestry: The breed’s lineage includes the Irish Wolfhound and Scottish Deerhound.
- Longevity: The Bouvier des Flandres typically lives between 10 to 12 years.
- Size: This breed can weigh up to 110 pounds!
- Cultural Symbol: In Hoboken, a suburb of Antwerp, a statue of the character Nello and his loyal Bouvier des Flandres, Patrasche, from the classic children’s book A Dog of Flanders, stands on Kapelstraat. A second sculpture of the pair is located in front of the Antwerp Cathedral.
The Bouvier des Flandres in Pop Culture
- ER: Fans of the medical drama ER may recall Gretel, a Bouvier des Flandres who was the canine companion of Dr. Robert “Rocket” Romano, played by Paul McCrane.
- Strike Witches: In the manga and anime series Strike Witches, the character Isabelle “Isaac” du Monceau de Bergendal has a Bouvier des Flandres as her familiar.
Famous Bouvier des Flandres Owners
- Joan Baez: The music icon, known for her folk tune “Old Blue,” is the proud pet parent of a one-eyed Bouvier des Flandres named Ginger.
- Merv Griffin: The late TV host and media mogul Merv Griffin had a Bouvier des Flandres named Keesh.
- Ronald and Nancy Reagan: A Bouvier des Flandres named Lucky once held the title of First Fido during the Reagan administration. Lucky was a high-energy dog who loved visiting Camp David and eventually moved to the Reagan’s ranch in California.
Adopting a Bouvier Des Flandres
If you’re considering welcoming a Bouvier des Flandres into your home, you can start by visiting the American Bouvier Rescue League, a non-profit organization dedicated to finding forever homes for unwanted or neglected Bouvier des Flandres. Breed-specific rescue organizations across the U.S. also offer adoptable Bouviers. You can also check for breed-specific rescues; many are listed on major adoption sites: