LIBRARY DOGS.COM
A good book is the best of friends, the same today and forever.
~ Martin Farquhar Tupper
| All-Around READing Dogs | ||
| Florida ~ "Dice" |
Howard and Dice are ready for Today’s Bouviers show off their skills and intelligence not only in herding tests and trials but also at agility, tracking, obedience, and conformation events. Some have been guide dogs for the blind. Like the versatile working dogs of long ago, Dice excels in many capacities. She has earned her Canine Good Citizen award from the American Kennel Club, she belongs to the Florida chapter of READing Paws, and she is a R.E.A.D.® team member with Howard. Bouviers are noted to be very good with children but they may nip at heels in play, as do many of the herding breeds.
A pretty pose, Dice is a fine example of her breed The word "bouvier" means cowherd or oxherd in French, and the breed has been known by several names in the past, including vuilbaard (dirty beard) and koehond (cow dog).Although originally the farmers just wanted reliable, hard-working dogs, the various breeds eventually evolved to a standard which became recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1929 and as member of the AKC's Herding Group in 1931. Stories about Bouvier des Flandres include: Bouvier des Flanders: The Dogs of Flandres Fields, by James R. Engle (Click on the titles above for a brief description and convenient ordering information.)
|
|
Born in 2005, Dice lives with her family in The Villages, Florida. She comes from a long line of champions and is a gorgeous example of the Bouvier des Flandres breed. Originating in Southwest Flanders and on the French northern plain, the Bouvier des Flanders was bred to be an all-around farm hand serving as a cattle herder, guard, and draft dog. The ability to perform a variety of tasks was more important than looks or pedigree; thus, the Bouvier we see today is derived from several diverse breeds possibly even including mastiffs, sheepdogs, and spaniels. The double coat, which served to protect the hard-working dogs in harsh climates, can range in color from fawn to black.
Dice pays attention The Bouvier is typically a devoted companion, fearless and protective. With regular exercise, it is calm and well-mannered indoors but always ready for an adventure in the great outdoors.
Dice has learned a lot from having books read to her. She could be Professor Dice here! With her best pal, Howard, Dice not only visits the tri-county libraries but also bookstores and senior citizen facilities. Dice's great size and shaggy coarse fur bring smiles to everyone she greets.
|
||
