Chihuahua vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison

Chihuahua vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed ComparisonBouvier des Flandres is originated from Belgium but Chihuahua is originated from Mexico. Bouvier des Flandres may grow 47 cm / 19 inches higher than Chihuahua. Bouvier des Flandres may weigh 48 kg / 106 pounds more than Chihuahua. Bouvier des Flandres may live 8 years less than Chihuahua. Bouvier des Flandres may have more litter size than Chihuahua. Bouvier des Flandres requires Moderate Maintenance. But Chihuahua requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Toy dog
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Belgium
Mexico
Height Male:
59 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
15 - 23 cm
5 - 10 inches
Height Female:
55 - 70 cm
21 - 28 inches
15 - 23 cm
5 - 10 inches
Weight Male:
27 - 52 kg
59 - 115 pounds
2 - 4 kg
4 - 9 pounds
Weight Female:
25 - 52 kg
55 - 115 pounds
2 - 4 kg
4 - 9 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 20 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
2 - 5
Size:
Large
Toy
Other Names:
Flanders Cattle Dog
None
Colors Available:
Black, Brindle, Fawn, Grey
Fawn, white and black, tan
Coat:
Medium length, coarse, shaggy, dense
Short- and long haired
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

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.

chihuahuaQuite a bit of the Chihuahua’s history is shrouded in mystery, and there are different versions about its origins.

While historians speculate, most will agree that the tiny dog hails from Mexico. The UK Kennel Club considers the smooth- and long coat Chihuahuas as 2 distinct breeds.It was in 1904 that the Chihuahua became a registered breed by the American Kennel Club.

Chihuahua is actually the name of a state in Mexico, and it is amazing that Chihuahua specimens were found way back in the 1800's already. Today the Chihuahua is a very popular dog breed in several countries.

Description

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.

chihuahua puppy - descriptionThe small Chihuahua stands at about 15 – 23 cm and he weighs about 1,5 – 4kg.

You’ll notice that he shivers when he is excited or when he is cold or frightened. Some people buy him a jersey to don on cooler days. With this tiny toy dog, you get a short- and a long coated Chihuahua.

This is the smallest dog breed and his coat is available in a number of colors such as fawn, tan, white and black. It is the dog’s round apple-shaped head which is a distinctive feature. He has erect ears and huge fruit-bat type eyes.

Temperament:

The Chihuahua is such an alert, fun-loving, feisty little dog, and though he may appear to be an ideal pet for children, he actually isn’t. He is too dainty and frail, and a child, during play, could accidentally crush him.

It’s a pity though because he just loves being around his human family. He is also a highly strung dog, and given the chance, he’ll nip and even bite during games. It is why socialization and training are considered important for the Chihuahua.

Just like with children, how you raise and treat your Chihuahua will determine how he turns out. He is such a sweet little dog that training and socialization can remove these unwanted characteristics. He is very intelligent and responds well to training.

Characteristics

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.

chihuahua dog - characteristicsSmall and feisty, the Chihuahua’s personality isn’t set in stone, and the tiny dog can be either shy and timid or he can be social, confident and jaunty.

They're always loyal and affectionate to their human owners, but they don’t get on too well with- and are wary of small children who aren’t disciplined and who could hurt them.

With his big eyes and big ears together with his comical antics, they can be a source of entertainment for their human owners. He is easy to train too and even though he is small, he doesn’t think he is, and he is willing to use his big personality to make you a loving, loyal and devoted companion.

Health Problems

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.

chihuahua puppies - health problemsThe Chihuahua doesn't have any particular health issues, more so when you get him from a reputable breeder. With good care he can reach 20 years of age.

Hypoglycemia:

Known as low blood sugar, hypoglycemia is easily treatable, but if it isn’t caught early it can be fatal.Hypoglycemia makes a dog lethargic and he’ll shiver and could go into a coma. Get him to the vet immediately.

Bloat:

Gastric Dilatation or bloat is when the stomach twists, it becomes enlarged and blood supply is cut off to the stomach. Left untreated, it can be fatal.

Dental Disease:

Chihuahuas are susceptible to dental problems, so you will need to brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week to prevent tartar build-up, gum disease, loss of teeth and other diseases.

Caring The Pet

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.

Diet:

chihuahua dogs - caringAlways make sure to choose a high-quality dog food for your Chihuahua as this will keep him in tip-top health. A healthy Chihuahua can live to be 20 years of age. Speak to a veterinarian for recommendations on the best type of food to feed your tiny pet.

Giving him some home-made food such as brown rice, vegetables and cooked chicken for instance will be a welcome treat for him. Make sure he always has a bowl of fresh, cool water close by.

Exercise:

The Chihuahua may well be the smallest toy sized dog breed, but don’t be mistaken – he has plenty of energy and is constantly prancing around. He is more than capable of living in a small apartment, but even so he needs to be taken outside every now and then for a game or a walk.

Be careful with your small pet though, as too much exercise can lead to elbow- and hip dysplasia.

Grooming:

The Chihuahua is a moderate shedder with Spring being their heavier shedding period. Because of his small size, you won’t be bothered by too much hair. The short haired Chihuahua is easy to maintain and with a rubber brush, you can brush him gently twice a week.

You’ll also need to clip his nails and if you can’t manage this your vet can also help you.

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. Chihuahua vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Chihuahua vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Chihuahua vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Chihuahua vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Chihuahua vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Chihuahua vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Chihuahua vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Chihuahua vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Chihuahua vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Chihuahua vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Chihuahua vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Chihuahua vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Chihuahua vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Chihuahua vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Chihuahua vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Chihuahua vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Chihuahua vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Chihuahua vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Chihuahua vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Chihuahua vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Chihuahua vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Chihuahua vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Chihuahua vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Chihuahua vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Chihuahua vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison