Non-Sporting Dogs

The Bouvier Des Flandres. "Bouvier" means "cowherd" and cowherding was the principal occupation of these dogs years ago. The breed was nearly wiped out along with much of Belgium, during World War I. A few dogs survived, and were the prototype of the breed standard. They served as ambulance dogs and messengers during the war. Sturdy and highly trainable, they are often used now as guide dogs for the blind.

Bouviers are from 22 to 27 inches tall, have rough, wiry, thick coats, which can range from fawn to black in colour, or pepper, and salt, or grey.

The Boxers. The boxer was methodically bred for security purposes along German borders during the last century, resulting in an animal that could scent smuggled contraband, guard land areas, attack interlopers. Despite their guard-dog abilities, they are splendid family pets and good playmates for children. The Boxer's ancestors were doubtless used for bull-baiting, or fighting other dogs, until European laws forbade these sports in the 19th century. Some believe the name Boxer was corrupted from the German word Beiszer, as in Bullenbeiszer (bull-biter). Others think the now-extinct Brabanter, also called the Boxl, was an ancestor and gave the breed its name. A third opinion holds that it comes from the dog's fighting technique, in which he often seems to box with his front paws.

His compact, squarely built figure was seen on battle-fields of both World Wars, and his alert, dependable nature fits him well for a peacetime occupation of leading the blind. Of moderate size, great strength and activity the Boxer makes a good guard and affectionate companion.

Height about 21-24 inches. The short, smooth coat is either brindle or fawn often combined with white markings. The head is broad with a deep short square muzzle and dark mask. In some countries the ears are cropped. The body indicates power and activity, it is short and muscular.