Belgian Sheepdog

Belgian Sheepdog Facts

Belgian Sheepdog Information

Belgian Sheepdog Description:

Belgian Sheepdog Care & Grooming:

Belgian Sheepdog Health Problems:

Group:	Herding
Size:	Large
Life Span:	12-14 years
Height:	Male: 23-27 inches
	Female: 21-25 inches
Weight:	Male: 65-75 lbs
	Female: 60-70 lbs

Coat :	Outer coat is dense, straight & harsh. Undercoat is soft & very dense
Gait :	Smooth, free & tireless
Color(s) :	Black or black with little white markings
Living Area :	Average
Hair Length:	Long
Exercise Need :	Daily long walk & jog
Recognized By :	(CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (UKC) United Kennel Club (KCGB) Kennel Club of Great Britain (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (ANKC) Australian National Kennel Council (NKC) National Kennel Club (NZKC) New Zealand Kennel Club (APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	19th Century
Place of Origin :	Belgium
Todays Use :	Companion Dog, Guard Dog, Show Dog
Originally Used :	Cattle Herding, Livestock Guardian
Other Name :	Belgian Groenendael, Chien de Berger Belge

As the name suggests, the origin of the Belgian Sheepdog lies in Belgium. Also called the Belgian Groenendael, the breed was named after a village in Belgium by the name “Groenendael”. The breed is one of the four Belgian Shepherd breeds, the other three being Belgian Malinois, Belgian Tervuren, Belgian Laekenois. The breed dates back to the starting of the 19th century, when it was bred by a group of fanciers under the leadership of a man named A. Reul. It was primarily used for herding and for drawing sledges in snowy terrain. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1912.

The Belgian Sheepdog is a medium to large sized dog with a strong, square frame. It has a strong, proportionate head; almond shaped eyes which are medium in size and dark brown in color; triangular shaped ears which are carried erect; black nose; a proportionate muzzle with a slight tapering appearance; taut, black lips with teeth which meet in scissors bite or an even bite. This breed has a low set tail which is strong at the base. The tail is carried downward when relaxed and with a strong upward curl when in action. It has medium length legs with cat-like, well padded feet. This breed has a double coat, with a long, dense and straight outer coat which is little harsh in texture, and a soft and very dense undercoat. The color of the coat can be black or black with little white markings.

The Belgian Sheepdog is an obedient and an agile breed. It has strong protective instincts, and thus, it makes for a very good watchdog. It is good with kids. However, it can be dominant with other dogs if not socialized well. Caution is advised with cats and other small pets because of the dog’s hunting instincts. It is not a breed for first time dog owners. Although an obedient breed and easy to train, it requires a firm hand when training it. Sufficient time is required for proper upbringing of the dog. Thus, it is not well suited to families which cannot devote enough time to their dog. It adapts well to indoor environment and thus, is well suited to an apartment life, but this dog is more comfortable at least in an average sized yard.

The Belgian Sheepdog is an average shedder and sheds heavily during spring and fall. Its long and dense coat needs extensive grooming. The coat needs to be brushed 4-5 times a week and should be rubbed occasionally with a damp towel. The coat should also be trimmed regularly to prevent matting of the hair. It should be bathed only when necessary and must be dried properly after each bath. Its eyes and ears need to be cleaned regularly to avoid any infection. Its nail and, the hair around ears, eyes and paws should be trimmed regularly.

This is an active dog which needs lots of exercise. Daily long walks are vital to keep the dog healthy both physically and mentally. These should be supplemented with jogging or running every now and then in an open but secured area. However, it should not be let off the leash in an open area as it has a tendency to chase small animals. It has a tendency to gain weight quickly so should not be overfed. This dog is prone to bloat, so small frequent meals are recommended instead of a large meal. It is sensitive to very high temperature so should be adequately protected.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The Belgian Sheepdog is prone to some health issues like hip Dysplasia, Ear and eye problems, Skin allergies, Obesity, Cancer, Epilepsy etc.

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