Belgian Shepherd. Belgian Shepherd (photo). Characteristics and description of the breed. History of the Belgian Shepherd breed
If you are looking for a friend - active and energetic, capable of protecting you if necessary - we present the best option- Belgian Shepherd.
And you know what's most interesting? You can choose a Belgian to suit your taste - short-haired, long-haired, black, and even curly.
History of the breed
According to official data, it was withdrawn during the period from 1891 to 1897 year in Belgium.
It took six years to unite all of them into one breed best qualities herding dogs of that time.
Already by 1892 its standard was formulated, but only 11 years later the first Belgians were included in the book of breeders of the Royal Society of St. Hubert.
Official status allowed the breed to receive wide use not only among the common population, but also among the nobility.
Varieties of Belgian Shepherd
Traditionally distinguished four varieties:
- Distinguished by its black color and long hair.
- with long red hair.
- short-haired redhead.
- with hard, short hair.
Photos of Belgian Shepherds
Morphology and temperament of Belgian Shepherds of all varieties are the same, the differences are only in color and hair – the merit of the dog handlers who bred the breed.
Morphology
Head with clear contours ( even long-haired ones varieties on outside ear hair is short), long and dry.
The proportion of the skull and muzzle is 1:1. Almond-shaped eyes, medium size. Nose in all varieties black, with wide nostrils. Triangular ears, standing upright, are located quite high.
The withers are clearly defined, the general impression is that the dog is powerful, but not heavy. The length of the dog from the shoulder to the ischial thigh is approximately equal to the height at the withers. The neck is graceful, elongated. The scruff is slightly curved.
Sloping, not too wide croup. The front legs are with dry, strong muscles, the hind legs are quite powerful. Muscular wide hips. The shape of the paws is as close as possible to oval. The tail is of medium length, strong at the base. The coat is abundant, thick, and the undercoat is fluffy.
The height of a male dog at the withers is about 62 cm, for females 58 cm is acceptable. The weight of the dog is 25-30 kg for males, 5 kg less for females.
Scissor bite, but direct is also allowed. The teeth are strong, plaque is not allowed. The jaws are well developed. The lips and nose are highly pigmented.
The Belgian Shepherd in motion is pure elegance and grace. Tireless, easily changes direction of running at high speed.
Elegant and harmonious - even at exhibitions, deviation from these definitions is reason for disqualification.
Character
Despite the “sameness” of character traits, Belgian Shepherds of each type still have “calling cards”.
The Belgian Shepherd is a typical herding breed - non-aggressive, balanced. Very energetic and active: activity – her life credo.
She is vigilant, ready to protect zealously and irreconcilably both the owner and the property entrusted to her. Particularly good as a guard or protection dog.
Always friendly towards friends, reserved towards strangers and a very confident dog. Signs of cowardice are grounds for disqualification. Disadvantages are considered to be manifestations of timidity or increased excitability of the pet.
Easy to learn and happily follows the owner's commands. For proper upbringing, timely socialization of the dog is necessary, otherwise the pupil will become either overly aggressive or shy.
Gets along well with all family members, down to the little ones. But active participant The baby will not play, although he will always obey him.
To prevent the dog from getting bored, she business is always necessary! A hard worker by nature, she cannot mindlessly rush around behind a stick, but she will take responsibility for guarding the string bag from the store.
And even while walking, she will instinctively run circles around her owner so that, God forbid, he “doesn’t stray from the herd.”
The Belgian Shepherd is a fairly unpretentious breed in terms of keeping conditions.
Main requirement– availability of sufficient physical activity, otherwise the dog will not develop to the required proportions.
Care consists of regular brushing of fur. It is recommended to brush puppies twice a week, and adult dogs once. Seasonal molt Twice a year also requires increased attention.
By combing your pet, you remove dead hair, which improves appearance dogs.
It is better to keep bathing to a minimum. Too frequent water procedures with the use of shampoos lead to the fact that the coat loses dullness and stiffness, and within the framework of the breed standard this is unacceptable.
It is unacceptable to cut your Belgian Shepherd's hair! Even a one-time haircut at a young age will not allow the fur to grow to the required length. The maximum that can be done is to trim the hair between the toes.
Eyes and ears clean with a cotton swab moistened with warm water.
Requires periodic nail trimming.
Suitable for keeping both in and city apartments. True, when maintaining apartments, it is necessary to carefully monitor physical development dogs, providing the necessary exercise during walks.
Nutrition
If you have ever been involved in feeding a child, then feeding a Belgian will not be difficult.
The basic principles are the same:
- Diversify. Even feeding all types of meat will not provide your pet with the substances necessary for development. Be sure to include cereal porridge in your diet - rice, pearl barley, buckwheat, millet; Semolina can be excluded.
- Giving enough vitamins and fiber. Vegetables and fruits will help you!
- Be sure to feed vegetable and animal fats. They are the main energy storage devices, therefore vegetable oil, and creamy foods should be in the diet.
- Do not overfeed. Obesity, especially with a lack of physical activity, occurs quickly in dogs of this breed, and with it comes diseases of the heart, kidneys, and liver.
- Bones and fatty foods give only in limited quantities. Quite often they become the reasons allergic reactions.
- If you plan to feed your pet ready-made feed, it is necessary to provide the dog Free access to water, otherwise bloating, cramps and colic are possible. Mark suitable food It is better to find out from the dog’s breeder, focusing on its weight and age.
Choosing a puppy
When choosing a small Belgian Shepherd, you should follow two rules.
Rule one
Decide why do you need a Belgian. If you are taking a dog for... to have a friend and comrade in the house, the choice will be simple - do you like this ball of fur or not.
And then you can safely turn to fellow lovers of this breed for purchase. The main thing is that the chosen puppy is healthy, active and cheerful, and has the necessary vaccinations according to age. And, of course, Belgian parents.
Best age for a puppy to find an owner – 1.5-2 months. Training and socialization should begin immediately after acquisition.
If the goal is raising an exterior dog to participate and win in exhibitions, it is better to make a choice in favor of a nursery where special tests are carried out to predict character future dog, - it would be nice to take an interest in their results.
Accordingly, what is written in the pedigree must be taken more seriously. In a good nursery They will definitely provide the puppy’s medical record with vaccination records. Pay attention to the character and work capabilities of the parents of the future champion.
Rule two
If you are a homebody by nature and long walks are not for you– choose a pet of a different breed.
Otherwise, there is every chance of raising a mentally unstable dog suffering from idleness.
A few words about socialization
The socialization of any dog is based on four pillars. It is especially important for working breeds such as Belgian Shepherds.
Calm attitude towards people. It is developed from a young age and depends only on the dog’s owner. It is very important that the pet feels confident both in a crowd and in a sparsely populated place, and does not show aggression or fear. The quality of team performance should also not suffer from the presence or absence of spectators. Do not allow the puppy to be teased or intimidated, otherwise socialization in this direction will be disrupted and the adult dog may behave inappropriately.
Confidence when interacting with other dogs. It is very important that an adult dog feels like a “dog” among dogs, is not afraid of them, but also does not bully without reason. It is better to walk the puppy with peers, but you should not avoid the company of adult dogs. The main thing is to carefully monitor your pet and, if necessary, intervene.
In order to raise a Belgian Shepherd puppy into a dog that not only meets the breed standard in appearance, but also in temperament and character, it is necessary to pay attention to all aspects of the puppy’s socialization. Do not forget: timidity or aggressiveness of a Belgian is a deviation from the standard.
Ready for hygiene procedures . In order not to raise a blockhead who climbs onto the sofa with dirty paws, teach your puppy hygiene from the first days. An adult dog should calmly tolerate washing, combing, and any manipulation. Don't be afraid or squeal in horror that your ears need to be cleaned.
Neutral attitude towards stimuli. The howl of a siren on the street or the roar of a vacuum cleaner should not cause the dog to panic. By gradually accustoming your dog to various sounds, colors, and events, you protect yourself from the need to catch a frightened pet in the middle of the street.
How much does a puppy cost?
The price of a Belgian Shepherd will greatly depend on whether you buy the puppy from your own hands or from a kennel.
The chances of getting a dog from the category “his grandmother sinned with a diver” instead of a breeding Belgian are very high when purchasing from private individuals. Of course, not for everyone and not always, but still.
- The variety of colors sometimes allows unscrupulous dog breeders to pass off as purebred dog just a mestizo. This will hardly make you love him any less, but you will have to forget about exhibitions. And the breed character in this case is a big question. Accordingly, the purchase price is relatively low - from $100 to 200.
- With a claim to show achievements - puppies worth from $500 and above. As a rule, breeders have all the necessary documents for puppies and parents: work certificates, pedigrees, medical cards.
- Prices may vary in nurseries: price over $1000 This is not uncommon among Belgian Shepherds, but the guarantee of raising a champion is much higher.
Many nurseries do not just sell puppies, but actually select a family for them, taking into account psychological characteristics every furry child and his owner. In such cases, the nursery monitors the development of the puppy and gives recommendations on raising the growing medalist.
A large service breed that combines the qualities of a search and herding dog. The breed has a distinctive feature - it has four types of coat, which allows Belgian Shepherds to look completely different.
There are four types of Belgian Shepherd
- Malinois
- Laekenois
- Tervuren
However, they share similar characteristics and are described as a single breed, the Belgian Shepherd.
Photo of a Belgian Shepherd standing on a rock
The breed is large but elegant with a light build and large bone structure.
- The head is moderately long, not wide and dry.
- The muzzle gradually tapers towards the nose, and the transition from the forehead to the muzzle is not clearly defined.
- The ears are erect, set high, triangular.
- The neck is muscular, of medium length and high set.
- The nose is black, the eyes are not sunken or protruding, and are often almond-shaped.
Belgian Shepherd character
Photo of a Belgian Shepherd (Tervuren) standing in the snow
The Belgian Shepherd is active and intelligent by nature, with excellent protective qualities. Without an owner or shepherd, she is able to make decisions on her own.
An attentive and independent animal, at the same time quite obedient, capable of following any commands. This is one of the most sensitive dogs reacting to any disapproval from the owner. In the absence of proper socialization and certain circumstances, the Belgian will grow up aggressive, or, conversely, shy and timid. With early socialization and proper training He will grow into a balanced dog - it will be a companion, a guard, and just a wonderful friend.
The Belgian Shepherd can be owned by families with children. However, they are not particularly playful with children, but are completely submissive to them. They often become attached to one person, but they will not refuse attention from other family members.
It is worth remembering that the Belgian Shepherd has a well-developed protective instinct; be careful when introducing the dog to new people.
To get used to getting along with other pets, you will have to put in a lot of time and effort. They love to chase cats. Due to their high intelligence and desire to learn, they are easy to train.
care and maintenance
If you have a Belgian Shepherd, be prepared to follow certain hygiene rules. The coat is thick, coarse, and water-repellent. The undercoat is short and soft. Shedding is especially noticeable seasonally, 2 times a year, winter - summer.
During the molting period, brush your pet more often, this way you will remove dead hairs and the surface will become well-groomed.
Important to remember, frequent bathing even using special shampoos for dogs, they spoil the coat, subsequently leading to loss of dullness and stiffness. The peculiarity of wool is the lack of shine, softness and silkiness.
If the desire to bathe her and get rid of the dog smell is irresistible, then use only special means and in minimal quantities.
Belgian Shepherd breed photo on the grass
Dry brushing of the coat is necessary regularly. To do this, you will need a special comb with sparse teeth so that when combing you do not tear out pieces of fur. Comb only with slow movements. The brush chosen is not thick, but quite hard. Clean already adult dog It is recommended once a week, but for a puppy - twice a week.
It is absolutely forbidden to cut a Belgian's hair, this will ruin the standard and the coat will not grow to the required length. The hair can only be clipped on the paws between the toe pads.
It is worth remembering that proper coat care is also the prevention of infections. This is due to the fact that fleas, ticks or itches appear on the skin and between the hairs.
It is necessary to treat eyes and ears with a cotton swab moistened warm water. The Belgian Shepherd is a herding, working dog that needs regular exercise.
Belgians must constantly feel important and busy and it doesn’t matter what they are doing specifically, the main thing is work. They happily play with other dogs in the yard or patrol the territory, go around the yard and provide security.
If you want to buy a Belgian Shepherd, you should remember that it needs a large enough space to explore and run. If you keep her in an apartment, be prepared for long walks with great physical exertion.
Belgian Shepherd food
The Belgian Shepherd cannot be fed simply; it needs a daily variety of foods. Even meat is recommended to be given in combination with other ingredients.
And this is due to the fact that:
- Firstly, for correct height and development, shepherd dogs need protein - plant and animal origin. Meat, eggs, dairy products and fish are the main sources of protein;
- Secondly, carbohydrates are a source of energy. Carbohydrates are contained in porridges (wheat, buckwheat, pearl barley, rice), as well as in bakery products;
- Thirdly, vegetable and animal fats are responsible for energy storage. Butter and vegetable oil are very rich in fats.
Belgian Shepherd puppy photos
If you feed a Belgian natural products, it is necessary to add minerals and vitamins to food; without them, the proper function of the body is disrupted. Vegetables and fruits are rich in vitamins.
Do not overfeed him under any circumstances - this leads to obesity and causes heart, liver and kidney disease.
Abuse of fatty foods and bones leads to allergic reactions. Be sure to follow the feeding schedule - try to teach him to eat at certain hours. It is also possible to feed her with ready-made food. However, it is worth remembering that such foods often cause bloating and abdominal cramps due to poor digestibility.
Before you buy ready-made food, it is recommended to consult with the breeder to choose the right food. After all, food is selected depending on the pet’s needs (weight, age) and must contain a full set of essential vitamins. When feeding dry food, having a bowl of water nearby is a must.
- Allergy
- Bloating
- Volvulus
- Dysplasia hip joint
- Dysplasia elbow joint
- Obesity
- Cataract
- Epilepsy
Height Weight
- Males: 60 - 66 cm.
- Females: 56 - 62 cm
- The optimal weight of a shepherd dog is 25 - 32 kg.
The average lifespan of a Belgian Shepherd is 10-12 years.
Belgian Sheepdogs (English Belgian Sheepdog, French Chien de Berger Belge) are a breed of medium-large herding dogs. Belgian Shepherds include: Groenendael, Malinois, Laekenois and Tervuren. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FIC) considers them to be one dog breed, but in some federations they are considered separate breeds.
- Belgian Shepherds need activity for at least an hour a day. If you cannot stress their body and brain in the form of play or work, then they will find entertainment for themselves. But they will cost you a lot and you won't like them.
- They shed evenly; coat care depends on the variety.
- They get along well with other animals and dogs, but their herding instinct makes them chase a running animal in order to return it to the herd.
- They are very smart and sensitive, they understand body language and facial expressions well. They have a strong herding and protective instinct.
- They love their family and games. Training should be fun, consistent, interesting, and positive.
- Because of their intelligence, energy, and other traits, Belgian Shepherds are not recommended for new dog owners.
- This is enough popular dogs, but some Belgian Shepherds can be difficult to buy. For example, Laekenois is one of the rarest among them.
History of the breed
Modern Belgian Shepherds first begin to be mentioned in the 17th century. A reproduction of a sketch from a French book of the time, included in the book “The German Shepherd in Pictures,” published in 1923 by von Stephanitz, the creator. This suggests that they existed as a separate type at that time.
The problem is that shepherd dogs are not a prestigious breed for that century. Old European aristocrats did not create clubs, and their wives did not keep these dogs as pets.
This rule also applied to Belgian Shepherds, who were assistants to the peasants. And the life of a peasant was not valuable and interesting, so the history of the breed is less known than that of other, more valued dogs.
From surviving documents, it is clear that the Belgians used herding methods similar to those of their neighbors, the French.
From time to time, Belgium was captured and new breeds of dogs entered the country along with the troops. Belgium gained independence in 1831.
With the beginning of the industrial revolution, the country's economy began to change. Railways, factories, and new technologies appeared.
Urbanization has led to the disappearance of pastures and an outflow of residents from villages to cities. This affected the popularity of herding dogs, for which there was no work left.
In the 19th century, Europe was overwhelmed by nationalism; many countries wanted to have their own national breed of dogs. To ensure that this breed is not like others, strict standards are being developed. And on September 29, 1891, the Club of Belgian Shepherd Lovers - Club du Chien de Berger Belge (CCBB) - was created in Brussels.
Later, in November 1891, Professor Adolph Reul collected 117 representatives of the breed from surrounding towns. He studies them to understand what specific breed can be represented for each region. While there are no standards, each dog is unique, although some have common traits.
Peasants care little about the exterior; they are focused on working qualities. However, Riyul unites them by type and in 1892 creates the first standard of the Belgian Shepherd. He recognizes three variations: shorthaired, longhaired, and wirehaired.
Belgian Shepherds are classified according to their appearance and the region where they are most common. Shepherd dogs with long, black hair are named after the city of the same name, red-red Tervurens, short-haired red Malinois after the town of Mechelen, wire-haired after the Chateau de Laeken castle or Laekenois.
Breeders turn to the Societe Royale Saint-Hubert (SRSH), the largest breed organization of the time. In 1892, they applied for recognition of the breed, but it was rejected. Standardization work continued and in 1901 the SRSH recognized the breed.
With the rise in popularity of dog shows, Belgian breeders are dropping performance requirements and focusing on conformation to win shows. Because of this, Belgian Shepherds are divided according to their purpose.
Longhairs become participants in exhibitions, while shorthairs continue to work herding dogs.
Nicholas Rose from the city of Groenendael is the man who pioneered the creation of the Belgian Shepherd breed of the same name. It was he who created the first Groenendael nursery - Chateau de Groenendael.
Louis Huyghebaert was involved in popularizing the Malinois and he stated that the requirements for working qualities are irrelevant, since there are few sheep left in Belgium.
Belgian Shepherds were the first breed used by the police. In March 1899, three shepherd dogs entered service in the city of Ghent. At the time, they were used on border patrols and their ability to track down smugglers was highly valued.
These shepherds first appeared in America in 1907, when the Groenendaels were brought into the country. In 1908, they were used as police dogs in Paris and New York. The most popular among Belgian Shepherds are Malinois and Groenendael, which are successfully distributed throughout the world.
With the beginning of the First World War, they continued to serve, but at the front. They serve as guards, carry letters, cartridges, and carry out the wounded. During the war, many people became acquainted with the breed and its popularity increased significantly. Belgian Shepherds deserve the reputation of being brave, strong, and loyal dogs.
Despite the fact that Belgium had to go through two world wars and many dogs died, this did not affect their popularity and gene pool.
Today they are quite widespread and popular, although this popularity is uneven and some variations have more fans, while others have fewer.
Description
In Belgium, all four varieties are recognized as one breed, distinguished long hair and its texture. In other countries, they are considered different breeds. For example, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes the Groenendael, Tervuren and Malinois, but does not recognize the Laekenois at all.
The New Zealand Kennel Club considers them separate breeds, while the Australian National Kennel Council, Canadian Kennel Club, Kennel Union of South Africa, United Kennel Club and the The Kennel Club (UK) has followed the FCI and is considered one.
Differences in color and coat:
- - dogs have thick, double coat, its texture is dense and hard, and should not be silky, curly or glossy. A thick undercoat is required. The color is usually black, although sometimes with small white markings on the chest and toes.
- Laekenois - the coat is coarse and tough, reddish with splashes of white. The Laekenois does not have a black mask like the Malinois, but the standard allows for a slightly darker shade on the face and tail.
- Malinois are short-haired, charcoal-red, with a black mask on the face and black on the ears.
- The Tervuren is a red charcoal color like a Malinois, but has a long coat like a Groenendael. Sometimes has white markings on toes and chest.
Otherwise it's very similar dogs. At the withers, males reach 60–66 cm, females 56–62 and weigh 25–30 kg.
Character
Belgian Shepherds combine the energy and stamina of a working breed with intelligence and friendliness, making them ideal companions. Herding dogs are lively, cheerful and energetic, and Belgian Shepherds are no exception.
They are born to be resilient, fast and agile, they need active image life and the potential owner should lead exactly that way.
They cannot live without work or activity; they are simply not created for a leisurely life and long periods of lying down. It doesn’t matter what you do: herd, play, study, run. The Belgian Shepherd needs a decent amount of exercise, at least an hour a day.
Herding dogs are characterized by control over other animals; they achieve this by pinching their legs. They will pinch everyone who strays from the herd in their opinion. Their attention is attracted to any moving objects, as they may relate to the herd.
Cars, cyclists, joggers, squirrels and other small animals can distract your shepherd.
Belgian Shepherds are very intelligent. Stanley Coren in his book "Dog Intelligence" ranks them 15th and is one of the breeds with excellent intelligence. This means that the Belgian Shepherd remembers a new command after 5-15 repetitions, and carries it out 85% or more of the time.
But this is also a problem, since simply running after the ball will not satisfy her. This breed needs a challenge, a challenging task that keeps it mentally and physical fitness. At the same time, they easily lose interest in monotonous tasks.
These dogs should not be owned by those who spend long hours at work or cannot find time for their dog. Left idle for a long time, alone, she will occupy herself. The result is damaged property.
Because of its energy and intelligence, the Belgian Shepherd should begin training as early as possible. These dogs naturally try to please people and are happy to learn new commands.
Early, consistent training and socialization are important for all breeds, but in this case they are critical. Training should be easy, fun, and interesting. The desired behavior must be reinforced with praise and treats.
Harsh methods are unnecessary and lead to the opposite results. Monotony and boredom also negatively affect training, because these dogs quickly remember and grasp everything on the fly.
Not only are they very energetic and intelligent, but they also have a strong will. Due to the fact that they served in the police and army for a long time, they understand body language and facial expressions well, and quickly navigate a person’s mood.
They cannot be recommended for novice dog breeders. The Belgian Shepherd anticipates his owner's needs and can try to outsmart him by staying one step ahead at all times. They do not forgive mistakes or weaknesses during training.
This smart breed is able to predict a person and unwanted behavior must be corrected quickly, firmly and decisively. The owner must demonstrate high level dominance and intelligence to remain in the alpha role. For new dog owners, this can be a problem.
Belgian Shepherds consider themselves part of the family, they are loyal and devoted, and are very protective of their own. They can be good watchdogs, tirelessly caring for their herd.
However, they do not attack without reason or pretext. They are friendly with family members, children and acquaintances. Strangers are not particularly welcomed, but once they get used to it, they warm up.
Before a person has become familiar, they do not trust him and take a closer look. Belgian Shepherds are often aloof and suspicious of new people, just as they are suspicious of sounds and movements. It is part of their job to protect and care for their flock.
They get along very well with children and also get along with other dogs and animals, especially if they grew up with them. But then they are perceived as part of the pack, and the pack needs to be managed. If the animal is unfamiliar to them, it evokes the same feelings as a stranger.
An experienced and consistent dog owner who devotes enough time to his Shepherd will find him surprisingly intelligent and obedient.
She just needs to give an outlet for endless energy and load her intellectually, in return he will carry out any command. These dogs a strong character and it requires the same character from its owner.
Care
There are some rules that are universal for all varieties. Regular care allows you to identify emerging problems, so examination of the ears, eyes, mouth, and skin should be regular.
But in hair care, each variety has its own requirements. The long, thick coat of Groenendaels and Tervurens requires brushing two to three times a week. Belgian Shepherds shed throughout the year, but quite moderately.
Groenendael and Tervuren males shed heavily once a year, while females shed twice a year.
During this time, they need to be combed daily. The wool is practically not touched, cutting off only what grows between the fingers. Otherwise, they remain in their natural form and do not require grooming.
But Malinois require less care, since their hair is short and does not need trimming. They shed twice a year, but since the fur is short, it does not need to be brushed often.
The Laekenois is one of the most interesting varieties of Belgian Shepherds, but also the rarest. Their coat grows slowly and owners should not trim it, as it may take years before it grows back to its previous condition.
The Laekenois's coarse coat requires regular trimming to keep the dog in good shape.
Health
The average lifespan of Belgian Shepherds (all varieties) is about 12 years and 5 months. This is quite a lot for purebred dogs of this size.
Longest life, officially recorded as 18 years and 3 months. The leading causes of death include cancer (23%), stroke (13%) and old age (13%).
In the period of the 17th-19th centuries, Europe was overcrowded with peculiar herding dogs, the ancestors of modern shepherd dogs. The first mention of dogs managing sheep dates back to 1650. At this point it was impossible to single out a single breed; the dogs differed in color, coat, physique and disposition. The only thing that brought them together was the amazing ability to herd flocks of sheep. The Belgian Shepherd dog was born in September 1891, on the day of the organization of the Belgian Shepherd Lovers Club.
However, the development of the Belgian Shepherd breed took some more time until the dog appeared to the world in April 1892. Specimens were bred that were different from each other, which prompted dog breeders to continue working on developing a pure breed.
The Belgian Shepherd dog breed was fully developed and standardized by 1910. Moreover, today the breed is represented by four varieties:
- Groenendael;
- Tervuren;
- Laekenois;
- Malinois.
Tervuren is another name for a beautiful and powerful breed of shepherd dog that has a dark mask on the face, traditionally a red color. Tervurens were bred in Belgium and used by shepherds as helpers. Today you rarely see dogs in urban environments; the shepherd dog requires a lot of space and is characterized by great activity. Tervurens are kept in country houses; purebred puppies are not cheap. The breed has long roots; at the end of the 19th century, a Belgian Shepherd Club was created, the idea of which belonged to professor of animal science Adolf Reul. Previously, branches of the Belgian Shepherd line were distinguished, but not yet isolated. They got around to dividing it only in the 19th and 20th centuries:
- Long-haired large Groenendael dogs with a black color, possibly with smoke.
- Red Tervurens with a black mask.
- Shepherd dogs of a similar color, with short hair - Malinois.
- Shepherd dogs of ash or red color with hard hair are Laekenois.
It is worth giving credit for the creation of the breed to a brewer named Korbel, who crossed purebred representatives of Belgian Shepherds with each other using a cross selection method and developed a good Tervuren genotype. Now the standard is complex and described, the dog is recognized by FCI, AKC, UKS, KCGB, SKS, ANKS.
Description of the breed
The Belgian Shepherd is considered the real pride of the Belgians, who have worked on its breeding for many years. It should not be surprising that the inhabitants of the state extol their own creation, sometimes even above other breeds. Belgian Shepherd dogs represent incomparable beauty combined with unsurpassed strength and high intelligence. The distinctive features of dogs are their protective instincts, high efficiency. The breed is extremely popular in Belgium.
External characteristics of the breed:
- Height reaches 56-66 cm;
- Weight ranges from 27-32 kg;
- Abundant woolly cover;
- Muscular physique;
- The backbone is strong;
- Muscular long legs;
- The head is elongated;
- High-set triangular ears;
- Dark brown intelligent eyes;
- Medium tail;
The description of the Belgian Shepherd breed begins with a mention of extremely high energy. The breed is characterized by increased activity; you rarely see a dog quietly dozing on the sofa, but rather running and jumping. She is responsive with children and doesn’t mind frolicking and playing. They are extremely distrustful of strangers, exhibiting protective characteristics. They are tender in their feelings with their owners and loyal without reserve.
Strong memory and high intellectual abilities allow training to be carried out without difficulty, giving the dog great skills. Dogs easily master new knowledge and strive to demonstrate it at a convenient moment. 
Due to increased activity require frequent walking, accompanied by active pastime. We are ready to accompany the owner everywhere - from bike rides to long hikes. Coupled with frantic activity, the Belgian Shepherd is distinguished by extreme restraint and composure. Has a lightning-fast reaction, which manifests itself in catching plates on the fly. Becomes a good companion and helper to blind people. Belgian Shepherd breed for a long time is in the service of the police, customs, rescue organizations and other specific bodies.
FCI standard
FCI standard number 15 of 2002 describes Belgian Shepherds as herding and military service dogs, used as bloodhounds, athletes, and guards. In many ways, the qualities and build of pets are similar to German Shepherds, a common type. Their appearance characterizes the Tervuren as a living embodiment of grace, strength, and agility. Males and females have a clearly defined sexual type, males are 5 cm taller and reach 60-66 cm at the withers.
A dog of the Belgian Shepherd, Tervuren, Laekenois, Malinois or Groenendael breed should not be overly heavy in build, and the pet should not be overfed. It is distinguished by a large and powerful head set on a strong neck. The size of the dog is medium, the muscles are defined, and the appearance is characteristically aristocratic. The listed qualities allow Belgian Shepherds to be used universally; the dogs are successfully socialized and amenable to training, becoming companions and assistants to humans in any activity.
The weight of an adult dog reaches 20-25 kg for females and 25-30 kg for males. If you look at the dog from the side, it is visually easy to fit the body into a square: it is not supposed to be stretched, the limbs are moderately long. The chest drops to the level of the elbows. The head has defined lines that are not hidden even by the fur. The forceps, or muzzle, is slightly longer than the skull. The skull is proportional to the body. The forehead is flattened, the eyes are set straight and gracefully. The muzzle is wedge-shaped, not pointed, ending in a black nose, regardless of color. The Tervuren's lips are tightly closed, hiding the teeth. The bite is correct, it can be pincer-shaped or scissor-shaped. The ears are triangular and curved forward.
The body reveals a clearly defined withers, a flat, not sunken belly and a slightly sloping rear. The line of the exterior from the withers to the tail is even and constant, without bumps or depressions. The tail is moderately long, reaching the hock joint. When excited, he should not twist himself into a pretzel or lie on his back in any other way. A plume is visible on the tail.
The color depends on the type of Belgian Shepherd. For Tervurens, only fawn or light red color with a smoky black mask is acceptable. She covers her face with lower lips, covers the eyelids, specifically the ears.
Caring for a Belgian Shepherd
Proper care for the Belgian Shepherd means, first of all, taking care of the coat, which is thick and long. You will need to regularly brush and brush the coat, removing dead hair and massaging the skin. The work is done by first using a wide-toothed comb, then switching to a specialized brush. Combing is done twice a week; if there are lumps, it is permissible to do it more often. Skin massage will stimulate hair renewal.
In warm months, when ticks appear on the street, treatment of the coat is provided, protecting the pet from the threat of contracting diseases. After each walk, it is recommended to examine your pet for wounds and foreign objects.
There are many recommendations on how to care for a Belgian Shepherd. In addition to the coat, pay close attention to the condition of the claws. Nails should be trimmed regularly to protect them from splitting and breaking. It is recommended to perform a haircut using a special nail clipper. This cannot be done with stationery scissors. Moreover, the haircut should not cause pain to the dog; it is not recommended to manipulate it too deeply, not to the point of bleeding.
Care about physical condition expressed in frequent active walks, useful for the dog and to man. It is possible to combine pleasant bike rides with a running dog nearby. It is acceptable to play outdoor games, the main thing is that the Belgian Shepherd exercises its muscles and runs.
If a puppy appears at home, the owners are called upon to be patient while the dog grows up and learns about the world around it. It is possible that the puppy will begin to play pranks, which is not perceived as sabotage. Try to hide valuables, leaving the dog alone, and keep your pet occupied in his free time. Belgian Shepherds love games and toys, but should not be overindulged. Get your puppy a walking ball or frisbee, and the pleasure of walking together is guaranteed.
The Tervuren, like a shepherd dog, desperately needs a firm hand and constant training. Intellectual stress is necessary like air, otherwise aggression and uncontrollability will begin. However, if you are too strict, the dog runs the risk of growing downtrodden and cowardly. Ideally socialize a puppy up to 3 years of age one month old, having received vaccinations and “introducing” them to people and fellow dogs.
The Belgian Shepherd is calm when interacting with children and pets. However, the child does not obey the commands. Needs to daily care for a long time and luxurious wool, for external beauty, do not forget to add vitamins and microelements to your diet. It is worth choosing food either ready-made, balanced and expensive, or, if the latter is expensive, accustoming the dog to a full-fledged natural nutrition. Feed twice a day: in the morning 30% of the norm, in the evening 70% of the norm. The coat should be combed with a long-toothed comb daily, once every 2-3 weeks; it may be necessary to trim overgrown areas or undercoat, and cut out tangles. They bathe once a month or a month and a half. Shedding occurs, especially in females, when it comes to heat, which happens a couple of times a year. During shedding, it is ideal to keep dogs in a crate or place the area away from laundry.
Belgian Shepherd has 4 varieties. with long black fur, Tervuren with long red hair, malinois with short red hair and wire-haired Laekenois . Of these 4 varieties, only Laquinua is not recognized by the American Cennel Club. The presence of several varieties of the same Belgian Shepherd breed is not due to different natural conditions
, in which they were bred, but solely through the conscious efforts of dog breeders, who managed to consolidate the morphological characteristics of the breed in just over a decade.
| In this particular case, a person managed to create 4 types of dogs, differing from each other in color and coat, but identical in morphology and disposition. And all this thanks to the study of the laws of genetics that inspired the first breeders of the Belgian Shepherd. |  |
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| Training | |
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| Mind | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Guard qualities | ||
| Security qualities | ||
| Popularity | ||
| Size | ||
| Agility |
| In this particular case, a person managed to create 4 types of dogs, differing from each other in color and coat, but identical in morphology and disposition. And all this thanks to the study of the laws of genetics that inspired the first breeders of the Belgian Shepherd. | |
|
| Training | |
|
| Mind | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Guard qualities | ||
| Security qualities | ||
| Popularity | ||
| Size | ||
| Agility |
| In this particular case, a person managed to create 4 types of dogs, differing from each other in color and coat, but identical in morphology and disposition. And all this thanks to the study of the laws of genetics that inspired the first breeders of the Belgian Shepherd. | |
|
| Training | |
|
| Mind | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Guard qualities | ||
| Security qualities | ||
| Popularity | ||
| Size | ||
| Agility |
Attitude towards children
Standard and character of the Belgian Shepherd From the end of the 19th century and for almost 20 years, the director of the veterinary school, Professor Reil, was engaged in the selection of a breed for which until then there was no standard. Without his research and experiments, small dogs of various colors that accompanied sheep to pasture until the end of the 19th century would have undergone a qualitatively different evolution. Having spread throughout the world, the Belgian Shepherd has managed to win the hearts and minds of dog lovers with its gracefulness and remarkable properties
character. The head of the Belgian Shepherd has clear outlines. It is quite long and dry. The skull and muzzle are approximately the same length. The nose is black, with wide nostrils. The forehead is moderately convex. Eyes average size
The height at the withers is 62 centimeters, the body is powerful, but not heavy. The chest is not very wide, but deep and drooping, as in all animals with great endurance. The croup is slightly sloping, wide, but not too wide. The forelimbs have compact bones and dry, strong muscles. The paws are round, with dense and elastic foot pads. The hind limbs are powerful. The thighs are wide and muscular. The shape of the paws approaches oval. The tail has average length, strong at the base. The coat is abundant, thick with a fluffy undercoat.
The Tirvuren has long, black-red fur with a black mask. The Malinois has a short coat, black and red with a black mask. The Groenendael's coat is long and completely black. The lakinua is tough, red, and blackish on the face and tail.
Possessing an excellent sense of smell and intelligence, the Belgian Shepherd can be used for guard purposes. She is distinguished by her sociability, affection for her owner and tenderness towards children. The combination of these qualities distinguishes it from other breeds, and therefore it is necessary to encourage and cultivate these natural properties in it. A shepherd dog, bred on the basis of careful selection, will undoubtedly be an ideal example of a breed in character, naturally possessing excellent inclinations and impeccable balance.
Raising puppies and training
The owner of a Belgian Shepherd must use all his insight and sensitivity to understand the psychology of this dog. Given that good relations between owner and animal, the Belgian Shepherd is much easier than any other breed. Natural resourcefulness and lively curiosity make her extremely receptive to her owner’s commands.
Nowadays, this beautiful dog is used as a guard dog, but in the depths of its being, the spirit of that one still lives small dog a shepherd who accompanied the sheep on the Belgian pastures.
The decision to add a Belgian Shepherd puppy to your family needs to be carefully considered based on a number of considerations. To ensure the harmonious and healthy development of the dog and, equally important, proper upbringing, you need to provide her with enough space and devote a lot of time.
Once you understand these questions, move on to the next ones, the main one being what purpose you are going to use the dog for. In any case, before purchasing a puppy, it is advisable to consult an experienced dog breeder who has devoted years to breeding these dogs. Ideally, a puppy should be adopted at the age of 10 to 16 weeks, since it is puppies of this age that those who breed them prefer to hand over to their owners.
In addition, during this period the puppy is already big enough and can receive its first vaccinations. And yet, at this age the puppy is already capable of learning. To others important aspect is the choice of gender. Many are convinced that with cables there is much more less problems than with bitches. However, a female dog comes into heat twice a year, which in total is only 30 - 40 days, when a male dog, smelling a female dog from several kilometers away, is anxious and sexually aroused throughout the year. In addition, the female is kinder and calmer than the male and, as a rule, more obedient. But the male is more impressive, quick and much more independent.
The Belgian Shepherd can be an excellent guard and guard dog, but thanks to its intelligence and versatile abilities, it can also become an excellent show specimen, a reliable guide for the blind and, of course, a cheerful and devoted friend for all family members.
Raising a puppy requires significant effort from the owner. In the first months, it is important not to disturb him during rest and try not to tire him with either play or too long walks. The puppy must first of all learn his name well, learn to walk on a leash and relieve himself in a once and for all established place.
The nickname should be as short and clear as possible. Over time, the puppy will learn to associate its name with affection and attention. At this stage, there is no need to call the puppy by name when you reprimand him while playing or eating. Otherwise, he will be reluctant to respond to the nickname, since it will be associated with unpleasant sensations for him.
In the process of training a dog, do not resort to coercive measures under any circumstances. Try to act with persuasion and persuasion.
A long process of adaptation to life next to humans has accustomed dogs to food of non-animal origin. It should not be forgotten, however, that a dog is carnivorous by nature, and therefore the basis of its diet should be the noble proteins found in meat. The diet of our four-legged friends should include the following: nutrients, such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and mineral salts. Already on sale finished products, whose composition is selected in such a way as to satisfy all the dog’s food needs.
Ready-made food allows you to build a dog’s diet in accordance with its real needs, and provides correct ratio between essential nutrients.
Care and maintenance
The presence of a Belgian Shepherd in the home requires compliance certain rules hygiene. Remember that you should not bathe it too often, as even special dog shampoos can ruin the animal’s fur. The coat may lose its characteristic stiffness and dullness. The fact is that the Belgian Shepherd's coat should not be too silky and shiny.
If you want to get rid of the characteristic dog spirit, use commercially available products, trying to use them as sparingly as possible. Also avoid bathing puppies under one year of age, as they may catch a cold.
It is necessary to regularly dry brush the wool. A comb for combing a Belgian Shepherd should have fairly wide teeth so as not to pull out hairs of the coat and undercoat. The comb must be moved slowly and only through the wool. The brush, in turn, should be hard, but not very thick.
Brushing adult carried out once a week, for a puppy - twice a week. But under no circumstances should you cut your dog's hair, as this will give the Belgian Shepherd a non-standard look and the coat will no longer grow to the desired length. Grooming also serves to prevent infection. The fact is that ticks, fleas and itches can grow between the hairs of the fur and on the skin. The ears, eyes and nose are cleaned with a cotton swab dipped in warm water.
The Belgian Shepherd needs space. And if after sunset it makes sense to keep her at home, then during the day she is against it. It is advisable to let her be in the open air, providing her with shelter from wind and rain in advance.
Health and illness
Guaranteeing a dog's good health primarily depends on proper planning. The parvovirus vaccine is given at 6 weeks of a puppy's life and then repeated at 9 and 13 weeks and at 6 months. Vaccination against glanders, hepatitis and leptospirosis is given at the 8th week and repeated at the 3rd and 6th months.
The graceful and strong Belgian Shepherd is one of the working dog breeds accustomed to life in the open air. Being a born shepherd, this breed also has all the qualities necessary for a guard and guard dog. Vigilant and attentive, she excels in a variety of official functions.
Thanks to its qualities, the Belgian Shepherd often becomes a champion in competitions. During these competitions, the dog must overcome all obstacles located in the stand area in a pre-selected direction within a limited period of time.
This is a rather difficult exam, which the Belgian Shepherd usually passes with flying colors, thanks to its magnificent behavioral characteristics. Liveliness, intelligence and quick reaction make this dog an inseparable companion for a person, of whom he can rightfully be proud.
Belgian Shepherd photo
Groenendael, photo gallery
Tervuren, photo gallery
Malinois, photo gallery
Laekenois, photo gallery
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