Dalmatian vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison

Dalmatian vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed ComparisonDalmatian is originated from Croatia but Bouvier des Flandres is originated from Belgium. Dalmatian may grow 9 cm / 3 inches shorter than Bouvier des Flandres. Dalmatian may weigh 20 kg / 44 pounds lesser than Bouvier des Flandres. Dalmatian may live 3 years more than Bouvier des Flandres. Both Dalmatian and Bouvier des Flandres has almost same litter size. Dalmatian requires Low maintenance. But Bouvier des Flandres requires Moderate maintenance

History

dalmatian - historyThe history of the Dalmatian dog is also fairly scant, and the information you get is often unclear.

The name Dalmatian wasn’t used until the end of the 18th century, although it seems as though, according to murals on ancient tombs, there were white hounds then with specks over the body.

It does seem firm that the modern Dalmatian is because of breeding of the English nobility. They used these dogs to accompany them on their carriages. The dogs were also bred with the purpose of getting an exquisite spotted pattern.

It was in 1890 that the first Dalmatian Club was established in England and the dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888.

bouvier des flandres - historyThese large dogs have descended from Flemish cattle dogs, and in French, the word Bouvier means herdsman or cattle herder. This is because the dog was used for driving cattle. The Bouvier comes from the Flemish region of Belgium where it was bred as a working farm dog. It is believed that the breed may have come from crossing local farm dogs with imported Irish Wolfhounds, Schnauzers, Tibetan Mastiffs, Brabanters, Griffons and Beaucerons.

It was in 1910 that the first Bouviers appeared at the international dog show in Brussels, with a standard for the breed being adopted in 1912.The American Kennel Club recognized the dog in 1929. It was after World War 11 that Bouviers were brought to America and the American Bouvier des Flandres Club was founded in 1963.

Description

dalmatian puppy - descriptionThe Dalmatian is a medium sized dog with its beautiful white coat with black or liver spots being its main feature. The coat is short and dense and the Dalmatian pretty much sheds all year round.

It is notable that at birth, the puppies are pure white, with their spots starting to form about 4 weeks later.

Both the male and female stand at anything between 56–61cm in height and weigh between 22 to 35kg. He is a slender, muscular dogs with plenty of stamina. The ears of the dog are floppy, he has brown eyes and a long tail.

Temperament:

With his human family, the Dalmatian is an active, playful dog. He has the reputation of being somewhat unfriendly and aloof, but many who have kept him as a pet say this isn't so. He loves to take part in games and gets on well with children in the home.

He is intelligent, but when it comes to strangers, the Dalmatian is reserved and even aloof. If you want to get the best from your Dalmatian, make sure that he is trained and socialized as he then knows how to behave well around people. He makes a good watchdog too.

bouvier des flandres puppy - descriptionThe Bouvier is a large compact, well built dog with strong muscled limbs. He stands at roughly 59 to 70 cm high at the withers, weighing between 27 and 52 kg. He has a large head with a thick and abundant coat which is of rough appearance. The coat is mostly black, but you’ll also find a range of other shades such as brindle, grey and fawn.

The back of the dog is level and broad, and is typically wider in female dogs. The back legs are strong and muscular. Some Bouvier des Flandres are born tail-less and this is most attractive. Most Bouvier dog owners used to have the tails docked because of the excellent appearance, but with docking now being banned, the tail is kept long. The muzzle is wide, the nose large, the eyes dark brown and the ears high set and floppy.

The Bouvier is intelligent, energetic and full of confidence while being calm and balanced in temperament. The puppies are vocal and full of antics, but as the Bouvier grows into adulthood, he mellows and becomes a steady family friend who gets on well with each human family member. He loves spending time with his family and becomes both friend and guardian, making a good watchdog too.

Characteristics

dalmatian dog - characteristicsThe Dalmatian is such a beautiful dog, energetic and playful and he is good with pets and children in the home.

He is intelligent too and training and socialization for him will be easy and promise to bring out all his good points.

The Dalmatian became popular in the 1800's when they were used as coach-dogs, and their popularity has been enhanced because of films from Hollywood such as ‘101 Dalmatians’.

Unfortunately many people receive Dalmatian puppies as gifts after seeing movies like this and then hand their dogs into rescue centers when they grow up and are no longer the cute little puppy they first met.

Be a responsible dog owner. A Dalmatian has feelings and you need to commit to caring for him for up to 15 years. You’ll be rewarded by having a wonderful, loyal canine friend.

bouvier des flandres dog - characteristicsThe Bouvier is such an amicable dog and strong and energetic too. He makes the most marvellous companion and will happily adapt to life in the city or in the country, although, with his big size, he is better suited to a home where there is enough space to run around in.

He is loyal, loving and protective and when you make sure to make him an active part of your family, you’ll find in him all the characteristics of a true friend.

Health Problems

dalmatian puppies - health problemsDalmatians, with good care, can live to be about 10 to 15 years. However, just as with other breeds, the Dalmatian is prone to certain health problems that are more specific to their breed. Some of these problems are skin allergies, deafness and urinary stones.

Skin Allergies:

Dalmatians are known to have sensitive skin and they are prone to topical allergies. When you brush your dog, you should check his skin for redness and also check for fleas and ticks.

Red bumps on his skin could mean an allergy and can be distressing for your pet. Your pet may be scratching excessively and the skin may be red and moist with runny, itchy eyes. It is time to get your dog to the vet, who may prescribe an antihistamines to get the itching and allergies under control.

Urinary Stones:

Unfortunately, the Dalmatian is a dog which has a tendency to form stones in the kidneys and bladder. A genetic mutation causes the raised uric acid levels which is more prevalent with the male Dalmatian. Straining to urinate can be tremendously stressful for your dog and you will need to get him to the vet immediately.

bouvier des flandres puppies - health problemsThe big teddy-bear of a dog is a healthy breed, but as a large dog, you will need to look out for certain health problems with him.

Hip Dysplasia:

Xrays have been done on many Bouvier des Flandres by the Club and by the Orthopedic Foundation of America and it has been found that a significant percentage of Bouviers were dysplastic. Hip dysplasia is a deformity of the hip joint and many large breed dogs battle with this. It can be very sad for dog lovers as they watch their dog battling to get up after lying down and sometimes lameness in the hind legs.

Dental Disease:

Dental disease is a common problem in many dogs, and the Bouvier isn’t excluded one bit. If you don’t brush your pet’s teeth with special dog toothpaste and toothbrush, there is tartar build-up which can lead to bad breath and gum infection. Dental disease can lead to pain in the teeth and even the loss of teeth. Bad teeth affect the entire body, and the heart, kidneys and joints can all be negatively affected.

Obesity:

The Bouvier is a large dog prone to obesity. This is a serious disease that can lead to all kinds of digestive disorders, back pain as well as heart disease. It can be easy just to give in to your pet’s pleading eyes, but in the long run, excessive weight can spell a host of health problems.

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

dalmatian dogs - caringThe Dalmatian is an easy dog to maintain and brushing twice a week will get rid of loose hairs. What is notable with the Dalmatian is that not only does he look like a well groomed dog, he also doesn’t have that typical dog smell around him.

Diet:

No matter what kind of dog you have, a high-quality dog food is always beneficial for your dog’s health. Home-made food is always good for your dog and wholesome food such as brown rice, vegetables and some cooked chicken will delight your pet and keep him interested in his food.

There are also excellent manufactured foods and kibble is a good food to have when you select it according to your dog’s age and energy levels.

These foods, especially the top quality ones, ensure your pet gets all the nutrients he needs. Adding some raw meat into the diet can be highly beneficial for your pet and will keep him bright eyed, bushy tailed and with a wet nose.

Training:

bouvier des flandres dogs - caringYour Bouvier is an intelligent, independent dog and you will be doing him a favor by having him socialized and trained. He becomes such a pleasure to have around, being obedient and willing to respond to your commands.

Exercise:

Every dog, and particularly large dogs like the Bouvier, should be able to rely on a daily walk, a run in the park or on the farm and have special games from his owner. Not only does participating in activities together build a strong bond between dog and owner, its important to avoid boredom and frustration with your dog. You bought him so you therefore have a responsibility toward him.

Grooming:

Your Bouvier des Flandres has a thick, medium-length coat that gets a shaggy look to it. The breed needs regular brushing every second day or so to get rid of loose hairs and to prevent the hair matting. He will require some professional grooming to look and feel his best. With his thick coat, he is hypoallergenic which can be a relief for allergy sufferers.

Diet:

The Bouvier has to be on high-quality dog food, whether you give him home-made food or commercially manufactured food. It has to have the right amount of vitamins and minerals. If you’re unsure about feeding a dog, remember that the amount and type of food you give your pet must be appropriate to your dog’s age, size and energy levels.It can also be wise to know which human foods are bad. Speak to your vet about your dog – they are a minefield of useful information about your pet. Fresh, cool water should be be available at all times.

Basic Information

Group:
Non sporting dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Croatia
Belgium
Height Male:
58 - 61 cm
22 - 25 inches
59 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Height Female:
56 - 60 cm
22 - 24 inches
55 - 70 cm
21 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
22 - 32 kg
48 - 71 pounds
27 - 52 kg
59 - 115 pounds
Weight Female:
22 - 32 kg
48 - 71 pounds
25 - 52 kg
55 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Coach Dog, Carriage Dog
Flanders Cattle Dog
Colors Available:
White with Black spots
Black, Brindle, Fawn, Grey
Coat:
Short and smooth
Medium length, coarse, shaggy, dense
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Dalmatian vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Dalmatian vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  3. Dalmatian vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  4. Dalmatian vs Chinese Shar Pei - Breed Comparison
  5. Dalmatian vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  6. Keeshond vs Dalmatian - Breed Comparison
  7. Mexican Hairless vs Dalmatian - Breed Comparison
  8. Tibetan Terrier vs Dalmatian - Breed Comparison
  9. Standard Poodle vs Dalmatian - Breed Comparison
  10. Norwegian Lundehund vs Dalmatian - Breed Comparison
  11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Dalmatian - Breed Comparison
  12. Dalmatian vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  13. Dalmatian vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Dalmatian vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Dalmatian vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  16. Dalmatian vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Dalmatian vs Basset Hound - Breed Comparison
  18. Dalmatian vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  19. Dalmatian vs American Cocker Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  20. Dalmatian vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  21. Dalmatian vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  22. Old English Sheepdog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  23. Briard vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  24. Rough Collie vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  25. Bouvier des Flandres vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  26. Bouvier des Flandres vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Bouvier des Flandres vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  28. East German Shepherd vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  29. Saarlooswolfhond vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  30. Estrela Mountain Dog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  31. Huntaway vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  32. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  33. Perro de Pastor Mallorquin vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  34. South Russian Ovcharka vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  35. Mioritic Sheepdog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  36. Samoyed vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  37. Labradoodle vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  38. Cane Corso vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  39. Mixed vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  40. Bullmastiff vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  41. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  42. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  43. Great Pyrenees vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  44. Presa Canario vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  45. Labrador Husky vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds