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CLEAR ALLAs the name suggests, the Belgian Shepherd dog breed is native to Belgium. They were initially bred as working dogs, with four separate varieties emerging over the years; the Groenendael, Laekenois, Malinois, and Tervuren. The Groenendael is considered to be the most popular variety, named after the village of Groenendael where they first originated. Today, they are loved the world over for their impressive intelligence and loyal natures as well as their handsome appearance.
These affectionate dogs form deep ties with their owners, so they make wonderful family pets, as long as they have been trained and socialised from a young age. These dogs have a strong protective instinct thanks to their history as herders.
Belgian Shepherds tend to excel in a range of canine activities including flyball and agility. They are also highly prized as search and rescue and assistance dogs. Groenendaels make great companions for more active couples and families that have the time to devote to their unique needs.
As the name suggests, the Belgian Shepherd dog breed is native to Belgium. They were initially bred as working dogs, with four separate varieties emerging over the years; the Groenendael, Laekenois, Malinois, and Tervuren. The Groenendael is considered to be the most popular variety, named after the village of Groenendael where they first originated. Today, they are loved the world over for their impressive intelligence and loyal natures as well as their handsome appearance.
These affectionate dogs form deep ties with their owners, so they make wonderful family pets, as long as they have been trained and socialised from a young age. These dogs have a strong protective instinct thanks to their history as herders.
Belgian Shepherds tend to excel in a range of canine activities including flyball and agility. They are also highly prized as search and rescue and assistance dogs. Groenendaels make great companions for more active couples and families that have the time to devote to their unique needs.
Like all other Belgian Shepherd breeds, Groenendael dogs are medium-sized. They stand 56 to 66 cm tall and weigh between 25 and 30 kg on average.
Groenendaels look similar to the other Belgian Shepherd breeds, as well as the popular German Shepherd. However, they have a squarer profile than their cousins and a lighter bone structure. They do, however, have the same refined, chiselled head as the Tervueren, Malinois, and Laekenois, which they carry with pride.
Groenendaels have medium-sized dark brown eyes with black rims, giving an alert and curious look. Their triangular-shaped ears are set high on the head and held erect, adding to their alert appearance.
The most distinctive feature of the Belgian Groenendael is its long, black double coat. This comprises a straight outer coat and a thick undercoat for warmth and protection. The length of their fur is not consistent all over their body, though. The neck, back of the front legs, hindquarters and tail all have noticeably longer hair, creating a fringe style. The opening of their ears also has an abundance of hair.
Groenendaels only have one possible coat colour - black, though some may have white or grey markings known as frosting. This is most apparent around the muzzle.
Like all working dogs, Belgian Groenendaels are highly intelligent and active, with a strong work ethic and eager-to-please nature. These qualities make them excel at any job they are given, whether it's herding cattle, protecting property or sending messages between soldiers.
However, in the home, Belgian Groenendaels require frequent daily exercise, including long walks and multiple play sessions, to stay happy and content. Mental stimulation is equally important to work their intelligent brains. These dogs can quickly develop unwanted behavioural issues if they do not get the physical or psychological exercise they need.
Training and socialisation are essential for Belgian Groenendaels, so they are best suited to people with previous experience with dogs. Start training as early as possible and include a mix of obedience training, tricks, and agility.
Without proper training, Belgian Groenendaels can become dominant and try to take the role of leader, becoming unruly. So if you do not have time for consistent training, handling, and socialisation, it is vital to work with a trainer instead.
The good thing is these dogs learn quickly and can pick up commands and tricks in a flash. This is because they are attentive to what is happening around them and always eager to please their humans.
Belgian Groenendaels develop incredibly loyal and loving bonds with their owners. They will be your friend for life and your bodyguard, always ensuring you are safe and free from harm. However, because of their protectiveness, they can be aloof and wary of strangers and take a while to warm up to new people.
As mentioned, Belgian Groenendaels do best with experienced dog owners who have time to train and socialise them properly. They also thrive with active owners, as their favourite way to spend time with their humans is on long walks and hikes.
Belgian Groenendaels often become an integral part of the family and build strong bonds with all household members, including children. However, they are best suited to older children because of their high energy.
Belgian Groenendaels can also become good friends with any dogs or cats they grow up around. However, introducing them to new pets once they are older will likely be a challenge. They can show aggression towards other dogs - you can minimise this through socialisation but not completely eradicate it.
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