Bouvier des Flandres vs Alopekis - Breed Comparison

Bouvier des Flandres vs Alopekis - Breed ComparisonAlopekis is originated from Greece but Bouvier des Flandres is originated from Belgium. Alopekis may grow 38 cm / 14 inches shorter than Bouvier des Flandres. Alopekis may weigh 22 kg / 48 pounds lesser than Bouvier des Flandres. Alopekis may live 4 years more than Bouvier des Flandres. Alopekis may have less litter size than Bouvier des Flandres. Both Alopekis and Bouvier des Flandres requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Miscellaneous dogs
Herding dogs
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Greece
Belgium
Height Male:
25 - 32 cm
9 - 13 inches
59 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Height Female:
4 - 8 cm
1 - 4 inches
55 - 70 cm
21 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
23 - 30 kg
50 - 67 pounds
27 - 52 kg
59 - 115 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 7 kg
6 - 16 pounds
25 - 52 kg
55 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
14 - 16 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
5 - 10
Size:
Small
Large
Other Names:
Venetia, Bouboudi, Alopecis, Moropa, Alepouditsa, Nickname - Bobis
Flanders Cattle Dog
Colors Available:
All colors and all combinations with the exception of the albino white. Mostly pure black, white or brown with white and brown, black and white, brown with tan, white with brown or black.
Black, Brindle, Fawn, Grey
Coat:
Shorthaired and wirehaired but the wirehaired is extremely rare. This dog is double coated with the outer coat being smooth and hard and the undercoat being dense and soft.
Medium length, coarse, shaggy, dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

alopekisThe courageous Alopekis is said to have run with and fought with bulls. To this day they escort bulls in Greece. They were used by the Greeks to contain the vermin populations, guard the chickens and ducks, and assist larger dogs in working with sheep. At one time it was thought that they originated from breeding of dogs and foxes, but this proved not to be true. It was also once considered to be the same breed as the Small Greek Domestic Dog, but it has since been declared its own breed.

The Alopekis is not a recognized breed with any of the current national or international dog organizations. The Kennel Club of Greece will recognize them once their population is large enough. They cannot be recognized by the AKC, IKC, or International groups until they are a much larger group.

bouvier des flandresThese 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

alopekis puppy - descriptionThe Alopekis is a small, fox-like dog with pricked ears on a head that is wedge shaped. They have large eyes, a deep and tapered muzzle with a broad nose. They are short but have long backs and a deep, wide chest with strong legs and feet. They have a beautiful tail that cures upward and a double coat.

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

alopekis dog - characteristicsChildren – fine once socialized

Special Talents - These are herding, watch dog, loyal and brave dogs.

Adaptability – They are very adaptable and highly intelligent.

Learning Ability – Alopekis are highly intelligent and very trainable.

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

alopekis puppies - health problemsThe Alopekis is an endangered species of canine due to a variety of factors. Traditionally this has been a healthy gene pool and the breed has been an example of the evolution of small canines. Factors such as farm pesticides, urbanization and cross breeding have affected the breed’s future.

This is made worse by the fact that the female Alopekis only breeds once a year, the litters are small, and the puppy mortality is high. In addition, the dogs are regularly neutered as part of a program to control strays, despite their status as an endangered species.

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

Feeding the Puppy

alopekis dogs - caringThis is a high energy dog and the puppies need to be fed a high-quality puppy food. Feed about 1/3 of a cup twice a day.

Feeding the Adult

Feed high- quality dry dog food and dog treats to this active dog. Feed about ¼ of a cup twice a day – more if below average weight and less if overweight.

Points for Good Health

Keep them active and away from pesticides if possible.

Games and Exercises

This is a very active dog that needs a lot of exercise, games and if possible – a job.

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. Bouvier des Flandres vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Bouvier des Flandres vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Bouvier des Flandres vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Bouvier des Flandres vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Bouvier des Flandres vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Bouvier des Flandres vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Bouvier des Flandres vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Bouvier des Flandres vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Bouvier des Flandres vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Bouvier des Flandres vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Bouvier des Flandres vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Bouvier des Flandres vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Bouvier des Flandres vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Bouvier des Flandres vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Bouvier des Flandres vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Bouvier des Flandres vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Bouvier des Flandres vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Bouvier des Flandres vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Bouvier des Flandres vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Bouvier des Flandres vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Bouvier des Flandres vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Bouvier des Flandres vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Bouvier des Flandres vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Bouvier des Flandres vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Bouvier des Flandres vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Alopekis vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Alopekis vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Alopekis vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Alopekis vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Alopekis vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Alopekis vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Alopekis vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Alopekis vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Alopekis vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Alopekis vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Alopekis vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Alopekis vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Alopekis vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Alopekis vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Alopekis vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Alopekis vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Alopekis vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Alopekis vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Alopekis vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Alopekis vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Alopekis vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Alopekis vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Alopekis vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Alopekis vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Alopekis vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison