Overview
The Belgian Shepherd is a medium-sized, athletic herding dog with four varieties that differ in coat type and colour. Most kennel clubs treat them as one breed, though the American Kennel Club lists them separately.
It is prized for working ability and is used in police, military, detection and rescue work. It needs an active owner and a real job to do.
History
The breed comes from the common type of shepherd dog found across Western Europe, related to the Dutch Shepherd, Bouvier des Ardennes and German Shepherd. By the end of the 1800s it was in decline until a breed club formed in 1891 and a survey led by Adolphe Reul began standardising it.
Varieties were named after places: Groenendael after a château, Malinois after Malines, Tervueren after a village and Laekenois after the royal château of Laeken. The current standard dates from 1956, and the breed served in both World Wars.
Appearance
The Belgian Shepherd is a elegant, well-balanced dog with a long head, triangular erect ears and a straight topline. Males stand 56 to 66 cm, with females a little shorter, and weigh roughly 20 to 30 kg.
The Groenendael is long-haired black, the Tervueren long-haired fawn with black overlay, the Malinois short-haired fawn with a black mask, and the Laekenois rough-haired fawn.
Temperament
These dogs are intelligent, alert and intensely devoted. They are protective and watchful, and many are sensitive and quick to react.
Without enough work, exercise and structure they can become anxious or destructive, so they suit experienced, active owners who enjoy training.
Care and exercise
Belgian Shepherds need plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation, such as obedience, agility, herding or protection sport. Early socialisation is important.
Long-coated varieties need brushing a few times a week and more in seasonal moult, while the Malinois needs only light care. The rough Laekenois coat needs occasional hand stripping.
Health
Generally robust. Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disease and epilepsy occur, and some lines are prone to skin and thyroid problems. The Tervueren is considered particularly sturdy.
