Bouvier des Flandres vs Great Pyrenees

Herding · Large vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Pyrenees is the larger breed at 100 lbs (males) vs 70–110 lbs for the Bouvier des Flandres.
  • The Bouvier des Flandres has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bouvier des Flandres sheds less.
  • The Bouvier des Flandres is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBouvier des FlandresGreat Pyrenees
Group
HerdingWorking
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
BelgiumFrance
Height (male)
24.5–27.5"27–32"
Height (female)
23.5–26.5"25–29"
Weight (male)
70–110 lbs100 lbs
Weight (female)
70–110 lbs85 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
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 Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a patient, smart, strong-willed livestock guardian — the snowy giant of the Pyrenees mountains. Originally from France, this giant working breed typically weighs 100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as patient, smart, strong-willed.

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Bouvier des Flandres health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Great Pyrenees health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Heart problems