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The Belgian Sheepdog, known as the variety Groenendael in it's home country, offers an alert, confident and tireless worker in its ideal form. In the USA, it is recognized as a separate breed while in Belgium it is simply a color variety of the Belgian Sheepdog. This variance in its recognition has created some issues in the breeding programs since in Belgium it is a purebred to breed a Groenendael to a Terverun but in the US it would not. Nevertheless, as the breeds gained popularity in the US and more examples were available this issue becomes less a concern. Handsome, vivacious and devoted to family and friend, the Groenendael is far from a dog suited for each and every home but for those homes that it is suited to, a greater friend is hard to find!
Coat type: long straight over the body, legs with feathering, ears and head smooth
Recognized Registries: FCI, AKC, UKC and others
Overall Appearance: Elegant, square and lithe, the Belgian Sheepdog with its prick ears and foxy expression exudes presence and intelligence.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: moderate to high
General Nature:
genial to reactive
with Children: can be good, proper supervision and introductions necessary
with other pets: small animals could be at risk but often good
with dogs: generally good but dependent on socialization
Socialization requirements: moderate
Ideal home characteristics: One that appreciates a dog interested in a job with high energy and intelligence.
Temperament Notes: Curious, intelligent and intent, this is not a dog that will deal with boredom well.
Training requirement: Moderate to high, socialization, basic manners and a
Trainer notes: Learns quickly and ALWAYS learning something. Do not assume that if you are not actively "training" this dog that you are not training. If so you will just as easily train bad traits and behaviors as desired ones. Definitely not a dog to take on if you lack the time, commitment and/or ability to pursue a "calling" as this dog has one. From agility to flyball to herding to pet therapy to SAR, this dog is one who will always be seeking a task, if you do not provide one, you will likely end up with a neurotic mess who barks at every passing car while seeking to dig out of your yard and chase the neighbor's cat. Inside they will seek to bark at everyone on the sidewalk while they eat your furniture. Be prepared to give this dog a purpose and function. It is your choice if this is the best of all possible companions or your worst nightmare.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: In the US early 1900s but in Belgian for many decades prior.
Country of Origin: Belgium
Original Function: herding and protection
History: One of the four naturally occuring sheepdog types of Belgium. When recognized in the US they were separated into the Belgian Sheepdog, Belgian Turverun, Belgian Malinois. The Belgian Lakenois is not yet recognized.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard: white, too large
Health Notes: hip dysplasia, eye problems, thyroid issues, epilepsy, low tolerance to anesthesia
