| AKC Group: | Herding |
| A.K.A.: | Groenendael |
| Functions: | Companion, Police dog, Search and Rescue, Therapy dog |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | Belgium |
| Life Span (yr): | 12 - 14 |
| Colors: | Black |
| Height (Inch): | 20.5 - 27.5 |
| Weight (lb): | 55 - 70 |
| Size: | Large |
| Hair Length: | Long |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: |  |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The appearance of the Belgian Sheepdog is both elegant and full of pride. He holds his head up tall with his beautifully tapered neck. He is muscular and solid, yet he does not look heavy He has an alert, attentive expression and he always seems like he is ready for fun. His eyes are brown and shaped like almonds. He has triangular ears that are held upright. His nose is black. The Belgian Sheepdog has a profuse outer coat that is moderately rough to the touch. His undercoat is thick and will keep him warm, even in cold weather. He has longer fur around his neck and fringe down his legs and tail.
Temperament:
Intelligence, bravery, awareness and loyalty are a few of the many qualities that are evident in the Belgian Sheepdog. His greatest desire is to protect his family and his home, a testament to his breeding as a herder of sheep. He watches his family attentively and is very active, if he is not commanded to stay put. The Belgian Sheepdog is wary of people he does not know and always on guard; however, he is not ever timid, fearful, or hostile. He tolerates children, if they are kind to him. He can be demanding, especially when it comes to the gaining the attention of his family. Isolating him from his family is the quickest way to destroy him and ruin his amazing temperament.
Health:
There is a quite a long list of conditions that may be passed on to the Belgian Sheepdog each generation; however, most of them are either common in all breeds or in the alternative, rare in this breed – but reported from time to time. Diseases include cancer, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts. The Belgian Sheepdog has also had hyporthyroidism and testicular problems reported. By reviewing the genealogical charts with the breeder, many of the medical issues can be discussed and the probability of occurrence can be determined. A veterinarian will be able to provide information regarding each illness and its treatment and prognosis.
Maintenance:
Caring for the Belgian Sheepdog requires a high quality form of dog food and routine grooming. His coat repels dirt and only needs to be brushed once a week to prevent matting and knotting. His undercoat can be removed when he is shedding which will prevent it from falling out in clumps through the house. Once a week his nails should be trimmed and his teeth should be cleaned. The Belgian Sheepdog needs an abundance of exercise. He loves to run, play, retrieve, swim, or just romp around with his owner. If he does not receive sufficient exercise, he could get into trouble and destroy things in the house or the yard.