The Beauceron – Expression & Head Characteristics

The Beauceron – Expression & Head Characteristics

The origin of the Beauceron, though perhaps a tale of myth and legend, follows the breed to this day. A dog that faced down a mighty foe must be fearless with a stoic confidence. His expression must be frank and unwavering, demanding respect wherever he goes. Never should a Beauceron lack confidence, and for that the expression must be impressive.

The breed specialists in France say the head and expression must be wolf-like. Long and chiseled, yet not narrow or snipey. The head is well-chiseled, made of harmonious lines without weakness. As seen in profile, the top lines of the skull and muzzle are parallel, and the junction of the two forms a slightly pronounced stop midway between the occiput and the tip of the nose. The nose is proportionate to the muzzle, well-developed and always black. In profile, the nose must be in line with the upper lip. Underjaw should be level and not lacking. The lips are firm and always well-pigmented. The upper lip overlaps the lower lip without any looseness. At their juncture, the lips form very slight but firm flews. The outline should be seamless to the human eye, no one part dragging the eye.

The eyes are horizontal and slightly oval in shape. They are dark brown in color, never lighter than a dark hazel. Blue and walleye is accepted in the Harlequin, and the blue eye must have adjacent merle coat. If an eye is bi-color, it is dark brown and blue. The ears may be natural or cropped. The natural ears are half pricked or drop-ears; they stand off the cheeks. Natural ears are flat and rather short, their length is equal to half the length of the head.