Bred as a general purpose herding and guard dog, the Belgian Tervuren has a strong protective instinct. One of four types of Belgian sheepherding dogs, this breed is distinguished by his medium-long fawn-and-black coat, which should be brushed twice weekly. Intelligent and devoted, the Belgian Tervuren is a loving dog that excels as a therapy dog and companion to the disabled.
DID YOU KNOW? The Belgian Tervuren is named for the Belgian village of Tervuren, home to M.F Corbeel, an early breeder who is credited with breeding the foundation stock. A famous fawn Tervuren, Milsart, became the breed’s first Belgian show champion in 1907.
ALSO KNOWN AS: Chien de Berger Belge
The need-to-know
- Dog suitable for experienced owners
- Extra training required
- Enjoys vigorous walks
- Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
- Large dog
- Minimum drool
- Requires grooming once a week
- Non hypoallergenic breed
- Chatty and vocal dog
- Guard dog. Barks and alerts
- May require training to live with other pets
- May require training to live with kids
Personality
The Tervueren is an affectionate, devoted companion who will protect his home and family. As with all breeds with a guarding tendency, it is not advisable to encourage the guarding instincts when young, as they could start trying to guard you in inappropriate situations. Their natural guarding instincts will kick in if and when necessary. However, he has a great sense of humour and learns very quickly.
History and Origins
The Belgian Shepherd Dog comes in four varieties: the Laekenois, Tervueren, Groenendael and Malinois, named after the areas in Belgium from which they came. The Tervueren is closer to the Groenendael than the other two. It is believed that two 'black-tipped fawn long-haired' sheepdogs were crossed and one of the resulting litter was crossed to the foundation stock of the Groenendael. This litter became the precedent of the Tervueren. In the 1940s the Tervueren dog breed nearly disappeared altogether; however, in the 1950s interest was rekindled in the breed.
Nutrition and Feeding
Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs.
Exercise
The Tervueren needs two hours-plus of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Highly trainable, he can excel at agility, obedience and other canine sports. They are very active dogs and should not be considered as pets if they are to be left alone all day.
Other Information
Health and common issues
As with many breeds, all varieties of the Belgian can suffer from hereditary eye disorders and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. This particular type of Belgian Shepherd is also predisposed to epilepsy.
Best family dog breeds
While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.