The Beauceron, also known as the Bas Rouge, the Beauce Shepherd, the Berger de Beauce and the French Shorthaired Shepherd, is the largest of the French sheepherding dogs. It is closely related to the longhaired Briard (Berger de Brie) and has been controlling flocks of sheep and herds of cattle since at least the 16th century. The Beauceron is a muscular, deep-chested and imposing dog with a short coat and a long tail, somewhat resembling a cross between a Doberman Pinscher and a German Shepherd Dog. This is a potentially aggressive breed, always ready to attack if it deems it necessary to protect its people, property or livestock. However, if gently and consistently trained and socialized, thye Beauceron can make a loyal and trusted companion. One of the more unusual features of the breed is the required presence of double dewclaws on its rear legs. The Beauceron was only recently recognized by the American Kennel Club, becoming a member of the Herding Group in 2007.
The Beauceron is an entirely French dog. A written description of a dog closely resembling a Beauceron was found in a Renaissance manuscript dating back to 1587. In 1809, a priest named Abbe Rozier published an article on French herding breeds and was the first to describe the longhaired variety as the Berger de la Brie (the Briard) and the shorthaired variety as the Berger de la Beauce (the Beauceron) – both named after regions
Strong and confident, the Beauceron always appears to be in a serious mode of thinking. This is because he probably is. A vigilant breed, the Beauceron makes an excellent watchdog and companion for an active family or a farming family. This breed is independent, able to solve problems and highly intelligent – making them an ideal rancher's assistant. Though serious and tough-looking on the outside, Beaucerons are gentle giants with their families and adore playing
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,”
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