“He is alert and energetic with a noble carriage. A formidable dog with a frank and unwavering expression, he always demands respect wherever he goes.” “The Beauceron should be discerning and confident. He is a dog with spirit and initiative, wise and fearless with no trace of timidity. Intelligent, easily trained, faithful, gentle and obedient. The Beauceron possesses an excellent memory and an ardent desire to please his master. He retains a high degree of his inherited instinct to guard home and master. Although he can be reserved with strangers, he is loving and loyal to those he knows. Some will display a certain independence. He should be easily approached without showing signs of fear.” –The AKC Written Standard
The written standard for the Beauceron has the exact short excerpt above to describe the Beauceron temperament. The American Beauceron Club, its members, and breeders should all strive to maintain not only health, structure and function of the Beauceron, but also correct temperaments.
Beaucerons should never be aggressive or fearful when presented to judges in the show ring. Recently there has been cases of questionable temperaments being awarded within the AKC show ring, and this is something we need to be very conscious of.
When judging Beaucerons it is important to not just consider structure and function but also temperament. The standard states, “Temperament: Frank approach and self-assured; never mean, timid, or worried. Although reserved with strangers, the character of the Beauceron should be gentle and fearless. Any display of fear or unjustifiable aggression is not to be tolerated.”
An incorrect temperament should be faulted. If there are 2 dogs of equal quality, the dog with the correct temperament shall be awarded the win. An incorrect temperament would be considered a severe fault.
In the case of puppies, it is always important to be patient. Beauceron puppies can sometimes be quite stubborn about showing their teeth, or a bit over exuberant and do not like to stand still. Again, they should never be fearful or aggressive, but remember to take your time and remain calm. Sometimes giving the puppy a moment to do something else, such as the down and back, might take their mind off the dental exam enough that they come back and perform it like a seasoned show dog.
Please also see the page discussing appropriate exam techniques and approaches.
