Bouvier des Flandres vs Dalmatian

Herding · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Bouvier des Flandres is the larger breed at 70–110 lbs (males) vs 45–70 lbs for the Dalmatian.
  • The Dalmatian typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Dalmatian has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bouvier des Flandres sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBouvier des FlandresDalmatian
Group
HerdingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumCroatia
Height (male)
24.5–27.5"19–24"
Height (female)
23.5–26.5"19–24"
Weight (male)
70–110 lbs45–70 lbs
Weight (female)
70–110 lbs45–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is a courageous, strong-willed, devoted Belgian cattle drover — bearded farm guardian and WWI ambulance dog. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 70–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, strong-willed, devoted.

About the Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is a dignified, smart, outgoing spotted coach dog — 101 Dalmatians, original carriage and firehouse dog. Originally from Croatia, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, smart, outgoing.

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Bouvier des Flandres health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Dalmatian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Urinary stones
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin allergies