Belgian Sheepdog Information

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Belgian Sheepdog Temperament

The Belgian Sheepdog is a very people loving dog, and is versatile, willing, eager, and quick to learn. These dogs are very obedient and intelligent which makes them highly trainable. A well socialized Belgian Sheepdog will be confident and well balanced. These dogs make good companions because they are very devoted, but some can have a dominant or stubborn streak. This gentle breed has bags of energy and loves to play. He has excellent problem solving skills and a very high learning and obedience rate with the right training.

The Belgian Sheepdog will get along well with children that are considerate and children that it has been raised with. He has a very protective streak, and may be reserved and way around strangers. Although these dogs are very loving towards their family, other pets need to be introduced carefully, as otherwise the Belgian Sheepdog may consider smaller animals to be prey rather than other household pets. This breed is probably best for those with some level of experience with dogs. Their protectiveness over their family makes them effective watchdogs. These dogs do not like intense warm climates but are okay with colder weather. They love to be around people, and can be very graceful and loyal, although they do still retain their instinct to chase.
Belgian Sheepdog Appearance

The Belgian Sheepdog weighs in at between 40-75 pounds and will reach heights of between 22-26 inches. The exterior coat of the Belgian Sheepdog is long, straight, and thick, and is coupled with a dense undercoat. The coloring of the coat is black, although some may have some small white markings. The ears of the Belgian Sheepdog stand erect, and this breed has a very alert and watchful expression.
Belgian Sheepdog Grooming

One word of warning is that the Belgian Sheepdog is a very heavy shedder, and is probably not the best choice of those with allergies. It is important to brush the coat once weekly, and more often during the times when he is shedding particularly heavily. Misting the coat with water before brushing can help to avoid breaking the hair. You should also regularly check and clean the teeth to avoid dental problems, and clip the hair between the toes and outer ears. The hair may matt on the ruff and legs, and this may need to be clipped during training sessions.
Belgian Sheepdog Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The lifespan of the Belgian Sheepdog is around 10-12 years, and there are a number of health problems that are linked to this breed. This includes thyroid problems, epilepsy, cataracts, pannus, PRA, and HD. Parents of your Belgian Sheepdog puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.
Belgian Sheepdog History

The Belgian Sheepdog is one that originates from Belgium, and was originally bred to guard and herd sheep. This is one of four varieties of these Belgian Shepherd dogs, and the Belgian Sheepdog was registered with the AKC in 1912.



# AKAGroenendael, Chien de Berger Belge
# SizeMedium/Large
# Ease of trainingHigh
# GroomingLow
# SheddingHigh
# Exercise neededWalk and lots of runs daily
# Energy levelHigh
# ProtectionHigh, guard dog
# Good with childrenYes, when raised with them from a young age
# Health clearancesOFA, CERF
# Popularity122/155