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 Belgian Sheepdog Training and Temperament
The Belgian Shepherd is an intelligent and obedient dog with strong protective and territorial instincts. This breed needs firm, but sensitive training. If you are over strict they will become uncooperative. Good for working and obedience trials.
As with all dogs, Belgian Groenendael training should be started as a puppy. To prevent behavioral problems later in life, training should follow a recognized training regime.
Either enroll in a certified local dog training school or read this.
First Impressions
Has a square muscular body.
The History Of The Belgian Sheepdog
The Belgian Sheepdog is also known as the Groenendael. They originated in Belgium during the 1200's.
There are three herding dogs known collectively as the Belgian Shepherds. They share the same standard and are identical except for coat and color. The most popular is the long-haired Tervuren which is a rich mahogany overlaid with sooty black. The Gronendael is a long haired solid black dog and usually referred to as the Belgian Sheepdog. The short haired variety is the Malinois, which is a brown or tan color with black mask and ears.
The Belgian Sheepdogs are shown as varieties of a single breed in some countries. Other countries including Belgium, show them as three separate breeds. The American Kennel Club considers them three separate breeds.
Description Of The Belgian Sheepdog
The medium length, bushy tail is carried low and never altered. The ears are erect and not altered.
The breed average height at the shoulder is dogs 24 - 26 inches and bitches 22 - 24 inches. Dogs weigh between 65 - 75 pounds and the bitches 60 - 70 pounds.
Coat & Grooming
The Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael) has a long, straight, medium length, heavy outer coat with a dense under coat requiring daily combing and brushing. Extra care will be needed when the dog is shedding. Clip out any mats that form, particularly on the ruff the legs. Clip hair between the toes and on the outer ears. This breed is a seasonal heavy shedder.
The elegant Groenendael is a muscular black dog, solid but not heavy, and very agile, with a proud carriage. The body is squarely proportioned. The triangular ears stand erect and the muzzle is long and tapering.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for a Belgian Sheepdog is around 13-14 years.
This hardy & healthy breed has no major health concerns.
Some reports of epilepsy, skin allergies, eye problems, excessive shyness, excessive aggressiveness and occasional hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Do not overfeed this breed for can become obese and lazy..
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
The Belgian Groenendael will be fine in an apartment given sufficient exercise. It is active indoors and prefers an average yard. The Groenendael can sleep outdoors. Needs plenty of exercise, preferably off the leash in a safe area.
For More Information on the Belgian Sheepdog
To get more information, check out the Belgian Sheepdog web site:
www.bsca.info
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
www.bsdrescue.com
Summary
This breed can be over aggressive. They have a strong territorial protectiveness.
:: Belgian Sheepdog Training ::
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