The Belgian Shepherd

Belgian Shepherd or Shepherd Dog is the name by which we know a group of shepherd dogs that have certain morphological, anatomical and behavioral characteristics in common. In fact, the only element that differentiates them is the type and color of the coat, which is why they are all united under the same breed.

What characterizes Belgian Shepherds is that they are very intelligent dogs that work hard. They are faithful to their master and are distinguished by their absolute obedience, which makes them suitable for family life. They are also animals that tend to be territorial, which is why they are often raised as guard dogs.

History of the breed

The development of this breed is due to the result of an attempt to reunify the large number of dog breeds that were used in herding activities in Belgium and Germany: the specimens that were used belonged to the Laekenois, Malinois, Tervueren and Groenendael breeds .

From the crossing of these breeds the Belgian Shepherd inherits its great intelligence, especially useful in herding jobs. Furthermore, it is a very dynamic dog, agile and full of energy, which is why it is particularly suitable for carrying out activities that require physical effort.

Characteristics

The Belgian Shepherd is a very elegant dog, with a slender body, especially in the area between the neck and the skull, which is why it is considered the aristocrat of the group of shepherd dogs. However, we must not be fooled by its delicate appearance because it is a strong and agile dog, very suitable for work.

Its tail is of medium length, its legs are lean, the body is athletic, and the ears are triangular and straight, similar to those of the Collie . In appearance similar to a German Shepherd, it has a different and less robust coat.

From the appearance of its fur it is possible to guess the inheritance of the four different “families” that gave rise to this breed:

• from the Groenendael breed  : black, thick and coarse hair;
• from the Tervueren breed  : hair similar to Groenendael , but fawn and with possible charcoal;
• from the Laekenois breed  : short hair with dark tones, curled in some areas;
• from the Malinois breed  : short, dense and smooth coat.

Training

Training a dog of this breed is a fairly simple task due to its keen intelligence. Despite everything, it is always advisable to start educating him from a puppy.

You will have to pay particular attention especially to socialization, since, being a rather territorial dog, it could develop an aggressive personality if it is not accustomed to contact with other animals and people.

generally it needs large spaces where it can run, although, with adequate exercise, it can also adapt well to life at home. If you don’t keep him busy and don’t tire him enough, he becomes nervous, restless and destructive because of boredom.

Special attention

The Belgian Shepherd is, in principle, a healthy dog, although it can get to have problems with the hips, like most sheepdogs. Numerous cases of epilepsy have also been found in this breed, which is why one must be particularly careful with these specimens.

The most frequent problems encountered in this breed are related to dermatitis, since the hair has a tendency to tangle or get dirty, thus favoring the proliferation of bacteria. It is therefore important to brush it at least twice a week.

Character

The Belgian Shepherd is a gentle dog towards his owner, while instead he is suspicious of strangers. He can get to be very affectionate if treated gently, however he is, in general, very independent and does not need to be the center of attention all the time.

He is a good dog with children, with whom he is patient and alert. Likewise, he will take care of the house, although he does not usually bark a  lot, so he is not a disturbing dog, unless you wake up during one of his night patrols.

It is an animal that, generally and if educated in an adequate way, is  calm, affectionate, understanding and willing to indulge its owner.