Chow Chow vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison

Chow Chow vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed ComparisonChow Chow is originated from China but Bouvier des Flandres is originated from Belgium. Chow Chow may grow 19 cm / 7 inches shorter than Bouvier des Flandres. Chow Chow may weigh 20 kg / 44 pounds lesser than Bouvier des Flandres. Both Chow Chow and Bouvier des Flandres has almost same life span. Both Chow Chow and Bouvier des Flandres has almost same litter size. Chow Chow requires High maintenance. But Bouvier des Flandres requires Moderate maintenance

History

chow chow - historyNorthern China is the original home of the Chow Chow. In that region of China, the breed was known as the Songshi Quan – “the puffy-lion” dog. They have also been known in China as the “Dog of the Tang Empire” or the Tang Quan. The Chow is believed to be an ancient breed that the Foo Dog, or stone dog guardians of Buddhist palaces and temples, is modeled after. It is one of the most ancient of dog breeds that are still around today.

It is believed that they have existed for around 2000 years or perhaps even as far back as 3000 years, starting out in Mongolia and migrating to China. The ancientness of the Chow Chow has been validated through DNA testing. In China all those centuries ago, the Chow Chow was born to be a working dog. They hunted, herded, guarded and pulled carts. They went on quests with the Mongolian armies when China was invaded, as well as when the Mongolians invaded the Middle East and Europe later on.

Today’s Canadian Kennel Club has about 350 Chows registered while the AKC gets 10,000 new registrations every year.

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.

Basic Information

Group:
Non sporting dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
China
Belgium
Height Male:
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
59 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Height Female:
41 - 60 cm
16 - 24 inches
55 - 70 cm
21 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
27 - 52 kg
59 - 115 pounds
Weight Female:
20 - 27 kg
44 - 60 pounds
25 - 52 kg
55 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
chowhound, chow, chowdren
Flanders Cattle Dog
Colors Available:
cream and blue, Red (light gold to deep red-brown) • Cinnamon (light tan to brown) • Black
Black, Brindle, Fawn, Grey
Coat:
double thick and coarse
Medium length, coarse, shaggy, dense
Shedding:
Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
High maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Hard
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Description

chow chow puppy - descriptionThe Chow really does look like a small lion with a black tongue. The dog is sturdy and square with erect, small ears on a broad skull. They have a very dense double coat. Their eyes are deep set and look like almonds, while they all have that very distinctive purple or black tongue. Their lips are also distinctive with their blue color. The nose is black, but some Chows might have a blue nose. The tail is curly.

These are medium size dogs when it comes to height and weight, but they are powerfully built for their size. Their power is in their compact body holding the energy and strength of a much larger dog. Its hind legs are almost entirely straight, unusual for any dog. They get their lion appearance from the huge ruff that stands behind their heads. Their chest is broad and deep.

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

chow chow dog - characteristicsLoyal and true to their family and those they know; the Chow Chow is a little standoffish with strangers. They are very protective and usually attach themselves to one or two people. They are intelligent but stubborn, which can affect your training with them. They need to respect their people and Chows respect hose who take care of them. They can be aggressive toward dogs of their same sex especially if those dogs are the same breed as well.

They are known to be very clean and many have compared them to cats in that regard. They appear to be dignified and refined. They are usually very quiet but very adaptable dogs.

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

chow chow puppies - health problemsAlthough an ancient breed that obviously has survived many centuries of trials, the Cho Chow of today is prone to several different health conditions. These include:

Eyelid Entropion

This condition can require surgery to keep the turning eyelid from injuring the eye ball.

Hip Dysplasia

This can cause lameness and arthritis.

Elbow Dysplasia

This can cause lameness and arthritis.

Stomach Cancer

Ear Infections

Make sure you keep the ears clean and keep an eye on them.

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

chow chow dogs - caringDon’t overfeed a Chow Chow as they are hard workers and big eaters. Feed them at least twice a day.

Health issues

Additional health issues include:

Glaucoma

This eye disease can lead to blindness if not checked and treated.

Juvenile Cataracts

These can be removed from an adolescent puppy.

Lymphoma

Again, the Chow is susceptible to cancer.

Diabetes

Can lead to heart or kidney problems if left untreated.

Hot Spots/Allergies/Melanoma

Keep a close eye on your Chow Chow skin.

Exercise and games

The Chow Chow was developed as working dog, but today’s version is more laid back and doesn’t need excessive exercise. Daily walks will suffice. They live very happily in the city if walked regularly. They are not really a competitive breed outside of obedience and confirmation. They are seldom seen in sports like agility or frisbee.

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.

Comparison with other breeds

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

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds