Herding Group

Breed History: The Belgian Malinois is also known as the Belgian Shepherd Dog, the Belgian Tervuren, Belgian Sheepdog, and Laekenois. Each is a variation of the same dog, except in the U.S. In the U.S. each variation is considered a different breed all together. The Belgian shepherds were developed in Belgium in the late nineteenth century as livestock guardians and herders. They were also used as police and military dogs. in 1891, a panel of dog experts explored whether there was on Begian shepherd dog that fit a particular standard. They determined that the Belgian shepherd dogs were similar in size and shape, but differed in coat length, texture, and color. These four were given names based on the villages or regions each was developed in.

Breed Description: The Belgian shepherd dogs are large, muscular, elegant, squarely built dogs. The head is strong with a muzzle that is moderately pointed and equal in length to the skull. They have dark brown, slightly almond-shaped eyes and large, triangular prick ears. These deep-chested shepherds differ by coat color, lenght, and texture. The Belgian Malinois has a short, straight, hard coat that is fawn to mahogany with black tips with a black mask and ears. The Belgian Tervuren has a long double coat and is fawn to mahogany with black tips. The Belgian sheepdog (Groenendael) has a long black coat, and the Belgian Laekenois has a wiry fawn to mahogany coat with black overlay. They are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 40 to 80 pounds.

Breed Temperament: These are intelligent, highly trainable dogs with a strong work drive. They are affectionate with their families but reserved with strangers, both protective and territorial. They are highly energetic and responsive but tend to be one-person dogs.

Energy Level: High

Notes: Belgian shepherd dogs do best with active, dog-experienced owners in rural or suburban homes. They require attention, a job or activity, positive training, and socialization at a young age.

Health Concerns: Anesthesia sensitivity, cancer, epilepsy, hip and elbow dysplasia, PRA, and thyroid problems.

   Belgian Sheepdog                                  

            Belgian Tervuren

Laekenois not pictured.