A
French herding breed known for centuries in western Europe, their ancestry
may be part of the Doberman. Beaucerons are used as a herder and guard dog,
and relative to the Briard. They are distinguished by their long tail and
double dewclaws on their hind legs. They resemble Dobermans in that they are
mostly black with the same tan markings. They are large, muscular dogs that
have ears that are usually cropped. The Beauceron is one of the most popular
dogs in France, as well as the Briard. They have been exhibited since 1897.
Beaucerons are good tempered, easy to train, but are wary of strangers. The
Berger de Beauce is said to respect only its master, and is not recommended
for the weak-willed. Beaucerons are considered the world's most versatile
working dog.
