Beauceron
Male: 32-45 kg, Female: 30-39 kg
Male: 65-70 cm, Female: 61-68 cm at the shoulder.
10-12 years
France
About the Beauceron
The Beauceron, also known as the Berger de Beauce or 'Bas-Rouge' (red stockings), is a powerful and athletic herding dog originating from the plains surrounding Paris. This breed is characterized by its imposing presence, rugged build, and unique double dewclaws on the hind legs—a hallmark of its ancient lineage. Unlike many herding breeds that use 'eye' and movement to control stock, the Beauceron is a forceful drover and a formidable guardian, capable of managing large flocks and defending them against predators with unwavering resolve. In a home environment, the Beauceron is a devoted and serious companion. They are famously known as the 'Gentilhomme Campagnard' (country gentleman) because they are reserved with strangers but deeply affectionate with their own family. Their high intelligence and desire to work make them exceptional partners for experienced handlers in various dog sports. They require a job to do and a firm, consistent leader who understands the balance between physical exertion and mental engagement to keep their powerful minds and bodies satisfied.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Beauceron must exemplify the 'Gentilhomme Campagnard'—a blend of rustic power and sophisticated discipline. Judges look for a harmonious, solid build without any heaviness, showing a slightly longer-than-tall silhouette that facilitates an effortless, ground-covering trot. The unique double dewclaws on the hind legs are mandatory and must be well-developed, representing the breed’s historical ability to traverse rugged terrain. Their presence is one of calm authority, moving with a fluid, rhythmic gait that highlights their functional athletic heritage.
In Australia
Reliable Australian historical records for this claim were not located according to Dogs Australia (ANKC).
Bred For
Sheep herding, livestock guarding, and later utilized as a messenger and mine-detection dog in the World Wars.
Temperament
Faithful, courageous, intelligent, and protective, with a calm but vigilant 'gentlemanly' disposition.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Grooming Needs
Moderate; requires weekly brushing to manage shedding, with increased attention during seasonal coat blows. Double dewclaws require regular trimming.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartment living; thrives best in a home with a large, secure yard or on acreage where they have space to roam and work.
Good with Kids
Generally good with older, respectful children; their large size and herding instincts may be overwhelming for toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Can be reserved or dominant with other dogs; requires extensive early socialization. May coexist with cats if raised with them from a young age.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to work, though they can be independent and require a confident, experienced trainer to reach their full potential.
Coat & Colours
Short, thick, and coarse outer coat with a dense, woolly undercoat.. Black and Tan (Bas-Rouge) or Harlequin (Grey, Black, and Tan).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that Beaucerons are predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia, so regular veterinary screening and weight management are vital for joint longevity. Like many large, deep-chested breeds, they are more likely to experience Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)—this doesn't mean every Beauceron will, but owners should be prepared for emergency symptoms and consider preventative measures like smaller, frequent meals. Their unique double dewclaws on the hind legs can be prone to snagging if not kept trimmed, requiring consistent nail care. Shedding is a moderate but constant reality, particularly during the biannual 'blow' of their thick undercoat, which necessitates extra grooming sessions. They possess a strong herding and prey drive, meaning they might naturally want to chase moving objects or 'heel' family members—this quirk is easily managed with structured training and redirection. Finally, their high intelligence can lead to independence or boredom if not given a clear job, but in the hands of a dedicated owner, their loyalty and versatility are truly rewarding.
Feeding Guide for Your Beauceron
Healthy Weight
30-45 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
600-1350 grams of fresh food per day, depending on the individual dog's weight, age, and activity level.
For an adult Beauceron, a fresh or raw diet should focus on high-quality proteins such as beef, kangaroo, and lamb. Feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal adult body weight daily, split into two meals to help mitigate the risk of bloat. Ensure meals include raw meaty bones for dental health and organ meats for essential vitamins.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-protein, nutrient-dense diet focusing on whole animal proteins to support high muscle mass and energy levels, with minimal fillers to reduce the risk of digestive distress.
Majestik Pet Food’s Kangaroo or Beef ranges are excellent primary protein sources due to their lean profile and high iron content. Include raw lamb ribs for calcium and dental hygiene. Supplement with small amounts of leafy greens (spinach/kale) and omega-3 sources like sardines or salmon to support their dense double coat and joint health. Some owners use smaller divided meals and avoid strenuous activity immediately around feeding. These steps cannot guarantee prevention of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Seek urgent veterinary care if bloat is suspected.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Beauceron Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Beauceron? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-10 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.