Beauceron - Appearance & Grooming
Dog Breeds
Introduction
The average Beauceron stands about 24-27 inches high and weighs between 70 – 110 pounds. They have a short rough outer coat with a wooly undercoat, and while they do not shed much the coat should be brushed on at least a weekly basis.
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Appearance
Beaucerons resemble the Belgian Malinois in appearance, but are slightly larger – about the same size as a Doberman Pinscher. They are athletic and lively, with muscular bodies built for athletics. They are heavy, but move lightly and with grace. Their muzzles are long and slightly wide, they have deep expressive eyes and some have tan “eyebrows.” Their ears are cropped and sit high on the head. Beaucerons have thick tails that form a “J,” and they have double dew claws (the “extra” claw at the back of the foot) that can be removed for companion dogs or dogs who will be active outdoors but should be left in tact for show dogs. They come in either black and tan or harlequin colors, should never have white markings, and have short, thick coats that lay flat against the body.
Size and Weight
Males Beaucerons stand between 25½ to 27½ inches and females from 24 to 26½ inches at the withers. They can weigh anywhere from 65 to 85 pounds, with some weighing in even heavier. The AKC prefers the dog to be proportionate and they use this as their standard, rather than setting a preferred weight class.
Coat and Color
Beaucerons have a short, double coat. The undercoat can't be seen through the topcoat is is short, fine, downy and is usually mousy in color. The topcoat is slightly longer than an inch, is dense, smooth and lays flat against the body. They have some feathering at the legs and tail.
They come in two color varieties: black and tan or harlequin. Black and tan Beaucerons have patches of tan above the eyes, on the bottom of the upper lip and throat, two tan spots on the breast, tan on the bottom of each leg and under the tail. Harlequin Beaucerons have patches of gray, black and tan in the same pattern as the black-and-tan variety and there should be more black than gray.
Grooming Needs
Beaucerons are very low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They have a short, no-fuss coat that doesn't require trimming or stripping. Baths only need to be given every few months, or as needed if the dog gets dirty. They shed lightly throughout the year, which is manageable with weekly brushing. If the dog does not naturally wear his nails down, monthly clippings may be required. Additionally, regular ear cleaning and teeth cleaning promote good health.
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Temperament & Personality