Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Sheepdog is one of four breeds of Belgian Shepherd Dogs. While the four breeds are only recognized as distinct in a few countries the rest of the world considers all of them as one breed this particular variety has a unique history. The Belgian Sheepdog was useful on the battlefield during World War I, where they served as ambulance dogs, message carriers, and luggage towers. Some even pulled machine guns into the fray. History This breed, which is also known as the Groenendael or the Chien de Berger Belge, originated in the 1800's with the other Belgian Shepherd Dogs. These breeds worked as sheep herders and companions for farmers. In 1891, the Club du Chien de Berger Belge formed in appreciation of this animal. Since then, it's been used as a therapy dog, guide dog, and working dog. As for breed distinction, the Canadian Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, and Kennel Union of South Africa consider the four breeds of Belgian Shepherd Dog, including the Belgian Sheepdog, as different varieties of the same breed. The American Kennel Club, Australian National Kennel Club, and New Zealand Kennel Club all consider them as individual breeds. Appearance Like its relatives, the Belgian Malinois and the Belgian, Tervuren, the Belgian Sheepdog carries itself proudly with its head held high. Its face should have an expression of alertness, which shows in the deep, dark eyes and erect ears. Owners often think they look intelligent, too. The body is square in proportions; the torso is as long as the dog is tall in most cases. At the withers, males measure between 24 and 26 inches tall, and females measure between 22 and 24 inches tall. The body is well muscled, the chest is deep, and the legs look powerful. As for the coat, the fur should be long with a slightly harsh texture. Fur is longest around the neck, forming a collar, and on the hindquarters and tail. This breed is typically solid black, though the presence of some white spots is not unusual. If present, white patches should be on the chest and toes only. Also, like other Belgian Shepherds, the male should appear more impressive than the female; the female should look feminine rather than fierce. Temperament The Belgian Sheepdog's attitude makes him a great family dog. He is patient around children and protective of his family. These dogs are also very intelligent, alert, and aware of their surroundings. They are also very brave and fearless, rarely shy and aggressive. They love the attention of their family members and can be very affectionate towards them and other people they know. Health Issues The average lifespan of a Belgian Sheepdog is around 13 years, which is average for a purebred dog of this size. The most common causes of death are old age, cancer, and cerebral vascular problem, such as stroke. Other health issues include a higher rate of seizures and epilepsy than other dogs, development of musculoskeletal problems, reproductive failure, and dermatological rashes or afflictions. Pet Care Exercise is a big concern for this dog. Owners must be able to walk or run the dog daily and provide a variety of toys for them to play with. Grooming should be done at least once a week to keep the coat healthy. Obedience training from an early age is also recommended. What Owners Have to Say Owners opinions vary based on what purpose the dog serves. Those who use the dog in competitions like agility, herding, and tracking love this dog for its intelligence and obedience. Those who use them in the work force, such as search and rescue teams and police task forces, love this dog for its keen senses and work ethic. Those who keep the dog as a pet love it for its use as a guard dog and also for its pleasant attitude. Is this the right dog for you? The choice to get one of the four breeds of Belgian Shepherd Dogs is often based on temperament; the choice to select a Belgian Sheepdog instead of one of the other three breeds is often one based on looks. The Belgian Shepherd Dogs all have a similar demeanor, which is why looks also play a role. Owners suited for a Belgian Shepherd Dog will love large, powerful breeds. Owners who love dogs capable of learning a wide range of activities will also enjoy this breed. The Belgian Sheepdog can be protective of its family, which is ideal for pet owners looking for a guard dog. The breed is also intelligent, alert, and easy to train, all of which are ideal characteristics in a dog. However, the Belgian Shepherd Dogs do have some faults. First of all, they are extremely high-energy dogs. They move around a lot, even if they don't have a specific task to do. Secondly, they will become destructive if their energy needs are not met. They may dig up yards or chew on furniture if they have extra energy to burn. For this reason, owners must be willing to exercise this dog daily with long walks or runs. Because of their intelligence, these types of dogs can be stubborn and independent, so an owner needs to be confident enough to use a firm hand when disciplining bad behavior. If taught obedience early on, these dogs will be well behaved, though. Also, young dogs must be socialized or else they could become aggressive, although it's not typical. Finally, they do shed a lot, so there may be extra clean-up required around the house. Many owners feel that the dog's good qualities outweigh the bad. If you're in that boat, and you love the appearance of the Belgian Sheepdog over the other breeds, then this is the dog for you.

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