Read About Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervuren's are watchful and obedient dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Belgian Tervuren Summary:

1. Size:

   Large Dog Breed

2. Weight:

   60-75 lbs

3. Coat:

   Medium Coated

4. Shedding:

   Medium Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Moderately Aggressive

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Moderately Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Good with Children

Belgian Tervuren - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Herding;1918

2. Size & Weight:

   22-26 inches tall, 60-75 lbs

3. Coat:

   Belgian Tervuren's have a straight outer coat and a thick undercoat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their head is long and well defined. The muzzle is proportionate to the body and the ears are stiff, erect and triangle shape.

5. Body:

   Belgian Tervuren's chests are neither broad nor narrow but are deep. They have a long tapered neck with long, laid back shoulders.

6. Colors:

   According to the AKC the acceptable colors are rich fawn to russet mahogany with a black overlay.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-14 yrs

8. Popularity:

   In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 100 out of 154 breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The Belgian Tervuren will do ok in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. It is moderately active indoors and will do best with an average sized yard. They prefer cool climates and can live outdoors but prefer being around people.

Belgian Tervuren - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Belgium

2. Historical Information:

   This breed is named for the Belgian village of the same name. They are one of four varieties of Belgian Sheepdogs. In most parts of the world they are all considered one breed but in the United States they are recognized individually.

Belgian Tervuren - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Belgian Tervuren's are intelligent and obedient. They require plenty of attention and interaction.

2. Behavior:

   They have strong protective and territorial instincts and need to be socialized early as puppies.

3. Habits:

   Belgian Tervuren's are alert and watchful dogs. They make great police and guard dogs.

Belgian Tervuren - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   They are a generally healthy breed. Some minor concerns are skin allergies, epilepsy, hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Make sure not to overfeed this breed as they can become overweight and lazy.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Belgian Tervuren's need lots of exercise. They are working dogs and crave an active outdoor life. They need a safe place to run leash free.

3. Grooming Needs:

   They require a daily brushing and combing and will need extra attention when they are shedding. Clip any mats and the hair between their toes and outer ears.

4. Travel Needs:

   For the safety of yourself as well as your Belgian Tervuren, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Belgian Tervuren's do fine with children and other pets when socialized at an early age. They should be watched around other non-canine animals to see how they will react.

Belgian Tervuren -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.

3. Puppy-proofing your house:

   Keep all small objects out of reach.

4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

   Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.