Ardennes Cattle Dog

The Ardennes Cattle Dog is related to many working European breeds formerly classified under the "Continetal Shepherd" name, such as the French Beaucerons, Briards and Picardy Sheepdogs, Belgian Laekenois and Bouviers, Dutch Shepherds, German Shepherd Dogs and others. Developed in the 1600's, the Bouvier Ardennais was a popular livestock drover and protector in France and Belgium for centuries, valued for its high levels of energy and courageous personality.

The breed became extremely rare after WW1 and was even considered extinct until the 1990's when a few working specimens were discovered in remote rural regions of Belgium. There has been a renewed interest in the Ardennes Cattledog and a dedicated revival programme is currently in progress. Muscular, powerful and athletic, the Bouvier des Ardennes posesses a playful and friendly temperament and is affectionate with its owner, but can be very cautious and reserved around strangers, making a good watchdog.

The coat is harsh, dense and shaggy, accepted in all solid colours, except white. Average height is around 24 inches.