Dog Breeds > Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is one of the four varieties of Belgian sheepdogs that are known for their herding skills. Highly energetic and active, this breed requires a certain amount of leadership skills and experience in handling. So, if you are thinking of getting yourself a Belgian Tervuren it is good idea to know about all its aspects first.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

The Belgian Tervuren breed has its roots in the Tervuren village of Belgium where it functioned as a sheep herder previously. Gifted with alertness, good observation power, strong build and an instinct for protection, these are one of the most popular guard dogs ever having its present occupation in police work.

Physical Appearance

A Belgian Tervuren grown up to a height of 24-26 inches and can weigh up to 75 pounds. The first thing one notices in its physical appearance is the long harsh coat and a chest reaching down to its knees. The outer coat is fawn or mahogany in colour made up of abundant long and closely knit hairs having black ends or tips while the inner coat is highly dense. The coat sports shorter hairs in the head and ears area but a lot of extra hairs in its front legs, tail and down its back. Male tervurens have a mane around their necks which is not that much prominent in case of females.  A Belgium Tervuren has a moderate muzzle which runs parallel to the top line of its head and sports triangular and upright ears, almond shaped dark brown eyes and tight black lips.

Grooming

Regular grooming and proper care is an important activity is having a Belgian Tervuren. Its long, thick and dense double coat requires daily brushing and combing. Male tervurens are heavier in shedding compared to females and they shed twice a year during the time of which thorough brushing is required. Matting may occur in and around the neck area and legs. Regularly clip these areas as well as between the toes and ears.

Mood

The mood of a Belgian Tervuren largely depends on the personality and training method of its owner. It should be understood that it is an active working dog and hence a lot of exercise is needed to keep it from turning destructive. Since the breed is known to be very bright, alert and obedient, early socializing and a natural authoritative ‘no-nonsense’ approach of the owner should be enough to keep it in a good mood and temperament.

With Children

The Belgian Tervuren is known to be a good family companion if trained properly. Protective in nature along with the characteristics of loyalty, alertness and high energy they are good companions for children and can go on playing with them for hours. Remember that to achieve this, the dog must be kept with the family inside the house instead of a kennel with sufficient playing area and made to socialize since birth.

Training & Exercise

As stated before exercising a Belgian Tervuren is vitally important and daily long walks and playing sessions are a must. Along with the physical exercise, this breed also needs mental exercise and a constant challenge from its master for it to be properly trained. A confident attitude of the master which communicates that domination is not wanted in an effective manner which is not harsh or rude is the best way to make the dog obedient and in turn open for better training.

Health & Life Expectancy

A Belgian Tervuren lives for about 12 to 14 years and possesses no major health issues. Overfeeding should be avoided since it tends to become obese and lazy. Other slight health concerns include excessive shyness or aggressiveness, skin and eyes problems, hip and elbow dysplasia and epilepsy.  Regular vet check up is always a good practice to keep your dog healthy and hearty.           

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