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| Belgian Tervuren |
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The Belgian Tervuren, arguably the most dramatic of the Belgian Sheepdog breeds, shares the same conformation (and in most countries is considered the same breed) as the Groenendael, Laekenois and Malinois. The claim to fame for the Terv, is the deep red, mahoghany to russet coat, long and full, tipped with black as if the dog just walked through a sooty chimney. The black mask and ears gives even more depth and richness to the color. Like all the Belgian Sheepdogs, the Terv is highly trainable and works diligently to please, characteristics that can lead to a certain amount of difficulty when the dog is in a home that lacks the knowledge or time to work with them. |
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| General Information |
| Group(s):
Herding |
Height: 22-26 inches |
| Weight: 45-65 pounds |
Longevity: midteens |
| Colors: fawn to mahoghany with black tips, black ears and mask, minimal white acceptable |
Coat type: double coat with soft downy undercoat and long, harsh guard hairs |
| Recognized Registries: AKC, FCI, NCA, UKC and others |
| Overall Appearance: Compact yet elegant, the Tervuren is arguably the most stunning of the four Belgian Shepherds with its striking "dusting by soot" over its full lush coat. Prick ears in black as well as a black mask over a bright and alert expression creates a lovely dog and brilliant companion. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: moderate to high |
| General Nature: |
genial and agreeable, with a strong working nature |
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with Children: generally very good but proper introduction and supervision are required |
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with other pets: can vary with smaller animals |
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with dogs: generally good |
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| Socialization requirements: moderate to high; intelligent and possibly the most sensitive of the Belgian Shepherd breeds, the Terv can be shy and difficult if inadequately socialized |
| Ideal home characteristics: One that appreciates a smart, sensitive dog that does best with plenty of companionship and training. |
| Temperament Notes: Sensitive, intelligent, athletic, strong work ethic and intolerant of excessive time alone |
| Training requirement: moderate to high; socialization, basic manners and some ongoing activity for mental and physical stimulation |
| Trainer notes: The Belgian Tervuren club states that a well-balanced Terv has a CH at one end and an UDT at the other end of its name. As agreeable as the Terv is to be trained, there is great truth and great knowledge to be recognized in this statement. First it means that you should very carefully consider your reasons for buying a puppy that doesn't come from such illustrious lines. Why would a breeder consistently breed dogs that do not possess these achievements if even the Parent Club acknowledges this as a reasonable goal? Additionally if you are not willing to pursue at least some aspects of these titles (the UDT since the CH is based on appearance and some individuals may not be truly capable of that achievement) then why would you want a Terv? |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: 1885 year of the birth of the sire of the breed |
| Country of Origin: Belgium |
| Original Function: Herding/Protection |
| History: Among the herding dogs naturally developed in Belgium. |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: |
| Health Notes: hip dysplasia, eye problems, thyroid issues, epilepsy, bloat |
| Health Testing: OFA, CERF, Thyroid Panel |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
How long have you had Belgian Tervuren?
Why do you have Belgian Tervuren (show, performance, hunting, etc.)?
What do you consider to be the most important single characteristic of a Belgian Tervuren?
What health issues have you seen in the breed?
What criteria do you set for your breeding stock?
Do you plan to keep a puppy from this litter?
How often do you have puppies?
Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
At what age do you sent your pups to their homes?
How would you describe the ideal Belgian Tervuren?
How would you describe the ideal Belgian Tervuren home?
Are your puppies whelped in your home?
What advice would you offer someone in raising and training a Belgian Tervuren? |
| Web Sites: http://www.abtc.org/adoptrescue.htm- American Belgian Tervuren Club Rescue |
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| Other Resources |
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