Belgian Sheepdog

Overview of Belgian Sheepdogs

  • The Belgian Sheepdog is an intelligent and loyal companion who requires time, training and socialization and an outlet for his boundless energy.  Due to his size, intelligence, vibrant personality and elegant beauty, owning a Belgian Sheepdog is a responsibility not to be taken lightly.  When you invest time in training and socialization, your dog will develop into a well-adjusted adult that you will be proud to be seen with in public.  To help you provide the best care for your Belgian Sheepdog, we encourage you to participate in the Belgian Sheepdog Club of America , regional special interest clubs, on-line Internet chat lists, and of course in basic obedience.
  • The Belgian Sheepdog is a medium-to-large sized dog that is one of four varieties of Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael, Laekenois, Malinois, and Tervuren), all of which are anatomically identical dogs that are alternativeiated only by the color, length, and texture of their hair.
  • The Belgian Sheepdog is a robust, healthy breed.Responsible breederswillscreentheir breeding stock for health conditions which include epilepsy, elbow andhip dysplasia, eye issues which include progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, and certain cancers.
  • Belgian Sheepdogs need a job to do—if you don’t have a working farm where they can herd, competing in herding trials, agility, flyball, or other dog sports is a good outlet for this energetic breed’s need for exercise and mental stimulation.
  • The Belgian Sheepdog is a shepherd breed originating from Belgium and a member of the herding group.[1] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States.
  • Belgian sheepdogs make great family dogs and excellent dog guards because of their love for human companionship and their alertness.  However, they are not very trusting of strangers and can be aggressive towards other animals.
  • The Belgian Sheepdog is a relatively healthy breed, although the breed as a whole does have a low incidence of a number of specific medical issues, including allergies, epilepsy (recurring seizures) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
  • The Belgian Sheepdog is longhaired with a harsh-textured black coat; the Belgian Tervuren has the same coloring as the Belgian Malinois , but the outer coat is long, straight and abundant.
  • Belgian Sheepdogs shed once or twice a year and will need more frequent brushing during those times to control the amount of loose hair floating around (there will be bags full!).
  • The Belgian Sheepdog is generally considered tall with a height of between 24 inches and 26 inches for males and 22 inches and 24 inches for females.
  • Breed

    But this does not mean that this breed will be right for everyone.Choosing to adopt a Belgian Sheepdog can often be a great decision for many individuals and families alike.Choosing to adopt a Belgian Sheepdog can often be a great decision for many individuals and families alike.  But this does not mean that this breed will be right for everyone.  For this reason, is, we wanted to take a moment to discuss some of the pros and cons of owning a Belgian Sheepdog so that if you do choose to purchase a Belgian Sheepdog you won’t regret that decision six months from now.For this reason, is, we wanted to take a moment to discuss some of the pros and cons of owning a Belgian Sheepdog so that if you do choose to purchase a Belgian Sheepdog you won’t regret that decision six months from now.

    Cancer

    All dogs have the capacity to develop genetic health problems.Likewise, Belgian Sheepdogs are prone to have diseases such as cancer, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, hip, and elbow dysplasia.Visit Doglime for more dog breed’s behavior and their information.

    Coat

    Like most double-coated dogs, Belgian Sheepdogs shed year-round with at least one heavy shed per year depending on the climate in which they live and how much coat they have.Some people save the fur and have it spun into yarn and made into sweaters or other items of clothing.The soft, dense undercoat provides protection from the weather and varies in thickness depending on the climate in which the Belgian Sheepdog lives.The topcoat is abundant with long, straight hair that’s moderately harsh to the touch, never wiry or silky.To get the shedding period over with more quickly, give a warm bath or two to help release the coat and brush more frequently.

    Energy

    Grooming

     

    Character
    The Belgian Sheepdog is a determined worker and devoted guardian.Activity Level
    The Belgian Sheepdog is an ideal match for an active, on-the-move family.As part of their training, Belgian Sheepdogs also need early socialization.At that time, there were three dogs in Belgium that were varieties of the same breed.Belgian Sheepdog  

    The Belgian Sheepdog, or the Groenendael, has a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years.Belgian Sheepdogs are especially effective watchdogs, always on the alert and naturally protective of their families.Belgian Sheepdogs are happiest when busy and take pride in their strong work ethic.Belgian Sheepdogs thrive on attention and want to be included in all activities.Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.Grooming Needs
    The Belgian Sheepdog has a long, dense double coat.However, as the breed became more popular they began working with police departments and border patrols.In the spirit of national pride, the Belgians wanted a dog that could represent their country.In World War I and II, Belgian Sheepdogs even served as Red Cross dog, defense dogs and messengers.Like all dogs, the Belgian Sheepdog also needs basic grooming.Once they have the basics down, Belgian Sheepdogs can go on to do quite well in advanced obedience, tracking, herding, agility and flyball.Origin
    The Belgian Sheepdog was developed in Belgium in the late 1800s.Size
    The Belgian Sheepdog weighs 45 to 65 pounds and measures 22 to 26 inches.Temperament
    The Belgian Sheepdog was bred to carry out a variety of jobs.The Belgian Sheepdog also needs time outside a secure area to run around and play.The Belgian Sheepdog blows their coat twice a year with the change of seasons, but is a moderate shedder the rest of the year.The Belgian Sheepdog is high energy and needs constant stimulation.The Belgian Sheepdog should be bathed when dirty and brushed twice a week.The Belgian Sheepdog should have a long daily walk and makes a good jogging or hiking partner.The Belgian Sheepdog was the long-haired dog of the group and most often used for helping around the farm.The three dogs consisted of the Belgian Tervuren, Belgian Malinois and the Belgian Sheepdog.They are generally friendly with people, but tend to be aloof with strangers.They are versatile and hard working.They can be wary of strangers and should have exposure to lots of different people early on to help them learn the difference between welcome and unwelcome guests.They like to use their minds as well as their bodies and should have an outlet, such as flyball or agility, to release energy.Training Needs
    The Belgian Sheepdog is highly intelligent and easily trained.With their families, Belgian Sheepdogs are highly affectionate and playful.

    Health

    For the most part, the Belgian Sheepdog breed is a pretty healthy breed despite the fact that they are a purebred.For the most part, the Belgian Sheepdog breed is a pretty healthy breed despite the fact that they are a purebred.  That said however, there is a potential for him to pick up some hereditary diseases.That said however, there is a potential for him to pick up some hereditary diseases.

    Personality

    The Afghan Hound is an ancient canine of Sight Hound family.The dense-coated and elegant dog is known for its striking protective personality, the Belgian Sheepdogs are one of the most beautiful herding dogs among the four Belgian herding dogs.They were bred about thousands of years ago by nomadic people of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Northern India.

    Social

    But if you decide to adopt a Belgian Sheepdog “rescue” it’s possible that he or she may not have been raised or socialized with small children.In cases like these, introducing a Belgian Sheepdog may not be the best choice which is why you’ll always want to know as much as you can about the “history” of any rescue dog that you do decide to adopt.When a Belgian Sheepdog is raised as a puppy in a household full of kinds, this “tendency” can be “contained”.When a Belgian Sheepdog is raised as a puppy in a household full of kinds, this “tendency” can be “contained”.  But if you decide to adopt a Belgian Sheepdog “rescue” it’s possible that he or she may not have been raised or socialized with small children.  In cases like these, introducing a Belgian Sheepdog may not be the best choice which is why you’ll always want to know as much as you can about the “history” of any rescue dog that you do decide to adopt.

    Temperament

    .For all his confidence and strength, the Belgian Sheepdog is sensitive, and his temperament can be damaged, sometimes irreparably, by harsh corrections.He does best with a combination of firm, fair, consistent rules and rewards for correct behavior.To succeed in training him, you’ll need to earn his trust and respect without the use of anger, intimidation, or physical force.While the Belgian Sheepdog is smart and highly trainable, he is an independent thinker.

    Training

    Alternatively, when your dog starts to molt like this, you can take them to a professional dog groomer and have them de-molt your dog for you.However, at least once a year, usually at the start of summer, they will “blow” their undercoat.The breed sheds moderately for most of the year and will need to be brushed at least weekly to ensure that their outercoat remains free of tangles and looking its best.When this occurs, they will require hours of brushing over a short period to remove all the loose fur from their undercoat.You may also find that your Belgian Sheepdog enjoys dog sports such as agility training or frisbee games, and a good romp around your local dog park with other dogs will likely be an enjoyable activity for them.

    Exercise ??

    Being a highly active working breed, Belgian Sheepdogs need a fair amount of daily exercise to keep fit and healthy.Even as young puppies, they need to get time to play outdoors, and from about 4 months of age, they will need to be taken out for at least a half-mile work each day and have outdoor play.Once they are about a year old, your daily walks will need to increase to at least a mile.

    How active is the Belgian Sheepdog?

    Regular exercise is needed with the Belgian as it is a very active breed.If it is not being used as a working dog it is best in a home with a yard of some kind, and needs owners who are committed to being active themselves so there is no resentment when it comes to walking and taking it out.A couple of long walks a day will be needed and it will need to be on a leash in case it tries to chase smaller strange animals.It can also join you for hikes, jogging, biking and so on and enjoys the usual games like fetch.Make sure you play with it and give it a chance to go off leash somewhere safe where it can run free.This is a breed that also needs mental stimulation.If it is not getting enough opportunities to burn off its energy and engage its mind it will become bored, difficult, aggressive and destructive, and it will be harder to control.

    Are Belgian Sheepdogs Good Family Pets?

    The answer to this question is yes.These dogs make wonderful family pets because they love to please and spending time with their humans.This dog also gets just great with children.Belgian Sheepdogs also make great guard dogs and will protect their family including other pets in the home.Belgians are best suited for families that are active because this dog needs a lot of physical activity.

    How much do Belgian Sheepdog puppies cost?

    The cost to buy a Belgian Sheepdog varies greatly and depends on many factors such as the breeders’ location, reputation, litter size, lineage of the puppy, breed popularity (supply and demand), training, socialization efforts, breed lines and much more.Review how much Belgian Sheepdog puppies for sale sell for below.

    Grooming ??

    The Belgian Sheepdog is a double-coated breed.They have a soft undercoat that will vary in thickness depending upon the time of year and the climate in which they live, as well as a long, straight outer coat that is moderately harsh but not wiry to the touch.

    Do Belgian Sheepdogs Shed?

    Belgian Sheepdogs (or Belgian Shepherds) are large working dogs that originate from Belgium, where they were commonly used to herd sheep.Over the years however, these intelligent, versatile dogs have also been used as police dogs, messengers and even helped soldiers in the military.Safe to say, few dogs can match his work ethic, trainability and loyalty.

    Are These Dogs Good for Families? ??

    Belgian Sheepdogs have a natural guarding instinct and will fiercely protect their family and their home from any perceived threats.When not under threat, they are calm and playful dogs and make for great family pets.

    Food & Diet Requirements ??

    The American Kennel Club recommends that a Belgian Sheepdog should be fed with high-quality, age-specific dog food that is either commercially manufactured or home-prepared under the guidance of your vet.

    Health and Conditions ??

    Belgian Shepherds are generally a healthy breed.However, like all dogs, they’re prone to certain health conditions.Many of these have been greatly reduced through careful and responsible breeding practices, so the best defense you can have is to have your breeder show you the health clearances for both of your puppy’s parents.

    What can I expect to pay for a puppy?

    Median Price: $0.00
    Average Price: $0.00
    Top Quality: $0.00 to $0.

    Training ??

    The key to training a Belgian Sheepdog is to earn their trust.They are highly intelligent dogs that can be trained to an exceptionally high standard.Yet, because they are independent thinkers, they won’t fully commit to their training if you are abusive or aggressive toward them.

    How It Feel To Stay With Afghan Hound?

    The highly intelligent dogs seem to be independent and stubborn, due to which they are not easy to train, they require firm kind hand and positive reinforce for their best respond.

    Is Afghan Hound Child-Friendly?

    The Afghan Hound is lively and fun-loving by nature, and makes good playmates with children, especially with the older ones.Because of their large body structure, they don’t recommend with small children.They are sensitive dogs and often overwhelmed with loud noises of yelling or crying that small children makes.

    Are Belgian Sheepdogs Good With Kids?

    Belgian Sheepdogs are great with children, especially if they are raised alongside them and properly socialized.Because of their historical use shepherds, special care must be exercised to monitor their tendency to nip at the heels of running children.

    Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

    If well socialized from a young age, you are unlikely to have any issues keeping another dog with your Belgian Sheepdog.However, they are not the best dogs to have in a household with other smaller animals, like cats or rabbits.The Belgian Sheepdog is a herding dog, and their constant attempts to herd your cat or chase your rabbit will quickly become problematic.

    What kind of dogs are part of your family?

    Help us get you the most relevant information.

    What’s the Price of Belgian Sheepdog Puppies?

    The price of a Belgian Sheepdog puppy can vary significantly, depending upon availability and the pedigree of their parents.However, as a rough guide, you should expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,000 for a new puppy or young adult Belgian Sheepdog.

    What Makes a Belgian Sheepdog Unique?

    The Belgian Sheepdog is a member of the AKC's 'Herding Group' with a temperament that is often described as bright, watchful and serious-minded.The Belgian Sheepdog has a demeanor best described as 'Somewhat Reserved'.When it comes to grooming needs, the Belgian Sheepdog requires brushing 2-3 times a week and sheds seasonally.In regards to training, you can expect the Belgian Sheepdog to be obedient with energetic fervor.The Belgian Sheepdog can be expected to live 12 to 14 years if they receive proper excercise and a Belgian Sheepdog dog food diet that keeps their weight between 55-75 pounds (male), 45-60 pounds (female).The Belgian Sheepdog is generally considered tall with a height of between 24 inches and 26 inches for males and 22 inches and 24 inches for females.

    How is the Belgian Sheepdog with children and other animals?

    The Belgian Sheepdog is a good dog with children when it is in a good home with a strong owner and has had socialization.It also helps when they have been raised with them.It will play, is affectionate and protective and does better with older children rather than young ones as toddlers tend to interact too erratically and can tug and pull at them.The Belgian does have a tendency to nip at the heels of people, children and other pets trying to herd them so this will need to be controlled with good training.Teach children how to pet dogs, things not to do and how to be kind to them.

    Thinking about getting a puppy?

    Join Growing Pup for help from our Purina experts on how to find the right puppy & prepare for your new arrival.And when you find your new pup, tell us a bit more about them to get a discount off one of our puppy ranges and regular personalised puppy advice.

    What will training look like?

    For people with experience this is an easy or moderately easy to train breed of dog.It can be responsive, and obedient when its trainer is firm, consistent, clear, and confident.For inexperienced owners who do not seek help though it will be harder.It can vary from one dog to another in how eager to please and quick to learn it is or how willful and dominant it is.Belgians need you to set the rules and to stick to them even when it tries to push you into letting it get its own way.Avoid being heavy handed with it, it needs positive techniques and encouragement and the use of treats, not constant scolding, badgering and physical corrections.Also be ready for its very quick reflexes that mean it can throw you off in terms of timing your signals and commands.It is good at reading you, anticipating and then you are quickly no longer the one in charge.

    What will you start learning today?

    In just a few minutes a day, you can learn the skills you need to build a better life and become a better you, with wikiHow’s expert courses.Whether you need to level up technical and professional skills for work, increase your financial literacy, or even improve your personal relationships, we have courses for you.

    What’s your primary interest in dogs?

    Help us get you the most relevant information.

    History of Belgian Sheepdogs

  •  In 1893, the breed was named after the original breeder, Nicholas Rose’s, estate.
  • In 1891, an official Belgian Shepherd Dog Club began in Brussels.
  • In 1891, Professor Reul, of the Belgian School of Veterinary Science, conducted a field study of all the existing sheepdogs in Belgium, and eventually 4 different breeds were nationally.
  • In 1891, the Belgian Shepherd Dog Club was formed.
  • In 1892, the Club du Chien de Bourg-en-Bresse petitioned the Societe Royale Saint-Hubert (the Belgian version of the AKC) to recognize the Belgian Sheepdog as its own separate and unique breed.
  • In 1893, Professor Adolphe Reul from the Belgian School of Veterinary Sciences set the standard for the breed.
  • In 1893, the forefather of today's Border Collie was born, a dog named “Old Hemp”.
  • In 1910 these dogs were officially dubbed Groenendael after the kennel that had selectively bred the black dogs since 1893 (just after the Belgian shepherds were recognized as a breed).
  • In 1911, the Groenendael was registered in the United States, with the first Belgian Sheepdog Club of America forming a few years later.
  • In 1911, two Groenendaels and two Malinois were registered by the AKC as “German Sheepdogs.” In 1913, the AKC changed the name to “Belgian Sheepdogs.” The first dogs were imported by Josse Hanssens of Norwalk, Connecticut.
  • In 1911, two Groenendaels and two Malinois were registered by the AKC as “German Sheepdogs.” In 1913, the AKC changed the name to “Belgian Sheepdogs.” The first dogs were imported by Josse Hanssens of Norwalk, Connecticut.
  • In 1911, two Groenendaels and two Malinois were registered by the AKC as "German Sheepdogs." In 1913, the AKC changed the name to "Belgian Sheepdogs." The first dogs were imported by Josse Hanssens of Norwalk, Connecticut.
  • In 1919 the Belgian Sheepdog Club of America was formed.
  • In 1924 and 1925, Walter Mucklow, a lawyer in Jacksonville, Florida, popularized the Malinois through AKC Gazette articles that he wrote.
  • In 1949, a second Belgian Sheepdog Club of America was formed in Indiana.
  • In 1949, the Belgian Sheepdog Club of America was founded and in 1959 the American Kennel Club recognized the Groenendael as an official breed.
  • In 1959 the AKC declared them a separate breed from the other Belgian Sheepdogs, and the American Belgian Tervuren Club was formed in 1960.
  • In 1959 the Belgians separated into the three AKC breeds recognised today, sheepdog, Tervuren and Malinois.
  • In 1959 the Belgians separated into the three AKC breeds recognized today, sheepdog, Tervuren and Malinois.
  • In 1959 the Belgians separated into the three AKC breeds recognized today, Shepherd, Tervuren and Malinois.
  • In 1959, a decision was made by the American Kennel Club that only the Groenendael can be registered under the name “Belgian Sheepdog,” and the Malinois and Tervuren were granted status as separate breeds.
  • In 1959, the AKC gave each variety a separate breed status.
  • In 1959, the Belgian Malinois was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
  • In 1959, the Belgian Shepherd varieties were officially separated, with the Belgian Malinois placed in the Miscellaneous Class until fully recognized in 1965.
  • In 1959, the breed was split into three separate breeds, and later was moved to the Herding Group.
  • In 1959, the breed was split into three separate
    breeds,
    and later was moved to the Herding Group.
  • In 1959, the three Belgian shepherd breeds were divided into separate breeds, with the Groenendael subsequently known as the Belgian sheepdog.
  • In 1983 moved into the herding group in this breed also have a lot of..
  • In 1983 moved into the herding group Laekinois and the Belgian Malinois 47th…
  • In 1983, the Malinois was moved to the new Herding Group with any other herding breeds.
  • In 1992 as a lazy breed friendly, sociable and eager to please type of originating!
  • In 1992, currently based in New York city ‘ Terv ’, this dog from was.
  • In 2017, however, more elegant and lighter-boned sized dog with ample energy dog, the Belgian is.
  • In 2020 Alonna completed her Dock Novice Excellent Title marking her 55th competition jump and an invite to the NADD 2020 Regionals which replace Nationals for 2020.
  • In the 1890s a professor of the Belgian School of Veterinary Sciences recorded standards for the various types of Belgian sheepdogs.
  • In the 1890s, a professor by the name of Adolphe Reul found that there were similarities between multiple emerging breeds of dogs in Belgium.