The earliest record of what is believed to be the breed of  dog now known as the Beauceron, is found in a renaissance manuscript in the year 1578. It is believed that  the Beauceron descended  from a hardy ancient canine designated by paleontologists  as the "Chien des Tourbieres" from the  French Jura and was originally domesticated and employed as larger game hunting dogs (bear, boar and stag). From these duties they took easily to the tasks of flock guardian and herding dog. The Beauceron's  role as esteemed companion and protector is also recorded as royal portraiture, where they are portrayed as companions to kings.
The Beauceron, some times referred to as Berger de Beauce or "Bas-Rouge" (red stocking), was included in the first French Canine Exposition held in Paris in 1863 by the Imperial Society of Acclimation. In 1897 the first club for "chiens de berger" (herding dogs) was formed. During this period, both the Beauceron and the Briard were considered to be of one breed with different coat types. In 1911 a separate club for the Beauceron was formed and the breeds divided. This club, Club des Amis du Beauceron continues its stewardship of the breed today in France.

It is not surprising that the Beauceron is almost unknown outside of France, as it is truly rare by any standard. At present there are perhaps 7,000 in the world, although the French stud books have recorded less that 80,000 registered since their recognition nearly a century ago. To add to the picture, the breed faced near extinction twice during the century due to both world wars where they were used not only as sentry dogs but also as bomb dogs and message carriers. Most recently, the breed was rebuilt following World War 2 primarily from approximately 50 select specimens. In the United States, the breed is a relative newcomer, with estimates placing their numbers between 350-500, with breeding privileges accorded far fewer. In France the Beauceron must be confirmed ( a detailed confirmation evaluation) and pass a character test(general conduct, conduct under gunfire and attack on handler) with acceptable ratings being Excellent (awarded only when a dog is exceptional for his age) and Tres Bon (awarded when a dog is generally correct and excelling in courage). Should the dog be scored Bon or insufficient they may be reconsidered in 6 months or denied breeding privileges altogether.