Bouvier des Flandres

Brushing Routine

Brush thoroughly 3-4 times per week with a slicker brush, pin brush, and metal comb to maintain their rough, tousled double coat. The outer coat is harsh and wiry while the undercoat is dense and fine. Work systematically from skin outward using line brushing technique to prevent hidden mats close to the skin.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 4-6 weeks using a texturizing shampoo that maintains the coat's natural rough texture. Avoid heavy conditioners that soften the coat too much. A thorough blow-dry with a high-velocity dryer is mandatory as their dense coat retains water and can develop hot spots or mildew if left damp.

Common Issues

• Matting in the beard, legs, and underbelly
• Beard becoming dirty and smelly from food and water
• Eye irritation from hair growing into eyes
• Ear infections due to hair in ear canals
• Hot spots from inadequate drying

Extend Your Grooming Results

Clean the beard daily after meals and water with a damp cloth or grooming wipe to prevent odor and staining. Keep hair trimmed away from the eyes for comfort and vision. Strip or trim ear canal hair regularly to improve air circulation. A waterproof beard bib during meals helps reduce staining.

Seasonal Care

Moderate shedding year-round as dead hair gets trapped in the rough outer coat rather than falling free. Regular brushing removes this trapped hair. Summer care involves keeping the coat trimmed shorter for comfort in heat. Winter coat grows thicker and benefits from the full rough texture for weather protection.

Maintenance Schedule

Brush 3-4 times weekly with line brushing technique. Clean beard daily. Bathe every 4-6 weeks. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for trimming and shaping. Strip or trim ear hair monthly. Check eyes daily for hair irritation. Trim nails every 3-4 weeks.