The Bouvier des Flandres is an intelligent dog and one that quickly understands new things they are taught. However, this means they are just as quick to pick up bad habits too which is why their training has to start early and it must be consistent and always fair. Bouviers are a great choice for novice owners, but it cannot be stressed enough that these large dogs need to know their place in the pack and are never happier than when they know they can look up to an owner for both guidance and direction.