The Bouvier was, like so many others, a breed severely impacted by war when its home became a battlefield. Dogs that stayed in Belgian risked starvation, but some were recruited into service, being stretcher bearers, pulling supply carts, and acting as military tracking aides. Bouviers were so valued by the Allies in both wars that the Axis shot Bouviers on sight. Some dogs that survived were taken to the Netherlands where they were used in Police Task Forces. A few were smuggled out of Europe by Bouvier owners who risked their lives, but a Belgian army veterinarian, Captain Darby, should also be credited with saving the Flandres breed through the war years.  It took until the 1960s for the breed to fully recover. 

Vintage image found on Pinterest and happily credited upon receipt of information