Beauceron
The Beauceron is described by the AKC as faithful, gentle, obedient, a member of the Herding Group, originally from France.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 25.5-27.5 inches (male), 24-26.5 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 70-110 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Faithful / Gentle / Obedient [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | France [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 102 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Beauceron is a powerful, athletic, and intelligent breed that needs lots of physical and mental challenges. This is not a breed for novice owners. They need a variety of outdoor locations and types of exercise each day and are best suited to an experienced, active owner who can provide the mental and physical activity they need. [1]
Grooming
The Beauceron has a short, dense double coat; the soft undercoat is covered by a rough, waterproof outer coat. It doesn't require a lot of grooming, but it does shed. A lot. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Any large or deep-chested dog may be susceptible to bloat, a sudden and life-threatening stomach condition. Beauceron owners should educate themselves on what symptoms to look for and what to do should it occur. Responsible breeders will screen their breeding stock health conditions such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, eye problems, and allergies. As with all breeds, a Beauceron's ears should be checked regularly, and the teeth should be brushed often. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Beauceron in 2007. [1]
- It ranked No. 102 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 142 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Bas-Rouge (Red Stockings).” [1]
- The AKC lists France as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Cardiac Exam. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 5/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Anyone who hates vacuuming: AKC rates shedding 4/5
Common questions
How long do Beaucerons live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
How big does a Beauceron get?
AKC breed information lists height 25.5-27.5 inches (male), 24-26.5 inches (female) and weight 70-110 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Beauceron?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Beauceron, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.