What makes the Belgian Shepherd Groenendael Unique?
The Groenendael Belgian Shepherd is energetic, lively and eager to work. It is bred for intelligence and awareness of its surroundings. Groenendael Belgian Shepherds require frequent face time and playtime with their master. They tend to bond very strongly with one person. Groenendael Belgian Shepherds can develop phobias of certain objects or locations as puppies, but usually grow out of it by adulthood.
Breed Groups
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Is the Belgian Shepherd Groenendael Right For You?
The Belgian Sheepdog combines the versatility of a working dog with the gentleness of a family companion. He makes a wonderful family companion as long as he receives the exercise he needs.
Ever watchful and on the move, the Belgian sheepdog glides in large circles. It is playful, alert, watchful and protective — a tough, independent and intense dog. It is aloof with strangers and can be aggressive toward other dogs and animals. Some can be domineering. It is intelligent and biddable, but independent. It is protective of its home and family.
The Belgian Sheepdog is happiest with an owner who can give him plenty of jobs to do. This breed gets along with gentle children, and will thrive in either country or suburban living if exercise is readily available. This is also a protective breed, and his intelligence and trainability make him an excellent watch dog. His long coat should be brushed weekly.
In 5 Words
- Loyal
- Powerful
- Active
- Intelligent
- Affectionate
Characteristics
Learn About the Belgian Shepherd Groenendael
Description
The Groenendael should be athletic, strong, imposing, rustic, and balanced in appearance. It should look natural, never as though it has been prepared just for the show ring. Its coat should be profuse, but never look as though it would inhibit the dog’s working ability in any way. The colour is always black, with small white markings being allowed on the chest. When being shown, its handler should never have to force it into position; ideally the handler should not have to touch the dog at all.
Size
The Groenendael should be 60–66 centimetres (24–26 in) at the withers for males, and 56–62 centimetres (22–24 in) for females. The weight should be approximately 25–30 kilograms (55–66 lb) for males, and 20–25 kilograms (44–55 lb) for females.
Coat
The groenendael has a thick, double coat. The texture should be hard and dense, never woolly, silky, frizzy, fine, or wiry. The undercoat should be thick and profuse. In conformation shows, dogs without an undercoat are heavily penalized.
Short History of the Belgian Shepherd Groenendael
The Belgian Sheepdog is one of four varieties of shepherd dogs that were developed in Belgium in the late 1800s. The four varieties are the Malinois, Tervuren, the Laekenois, and the Belgian Sheepdog, or Groenendael (black, long coat).
The Belgian Sheepdog is known as the Groenendael, or Chien de Berger Belge in most parts of the world. The breed’s origin can be traced to the late 1800’s where it was listed in both stud books and at dog shows. A versatile animal, it performed a variety of functions and worked as a herder, watchdog and companion.
Temperament
The Groenendael is (very) intelligent, active, loyal and quietly affectionate. Groenendaels are not a breed for the faint of heart. However for those who have plenty of time, energy, confidence and love, they are wonderful friends. Training and socializing is essential. They are wary of strangers and protective. They love children as long as they are introduced to them at an early age. The Groenendael bonds deeply to its people and cannot live outdoors or in a kennel. It needs to spend time with its family every day and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
Caring for Your Belgian Shepherd Groenendael
General Health
Belgian Sheepdogs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions. Not all Belgian Sheepdogs will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s important to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed.
Care
The Belgian Sheepdog is an indoor/outdoor dog. He should live indoors with the family but needs access to a securely fenced yard that will prevent him from escaping to chase passing cyclists, joggers, and cars.
If possible, provide your Belgian Sheepdog with some off-leash exercise in a fenced area in addition to long walks or jogging. He needs at least an hour of activity daily, which can be broken up into two or three exercise or play sessions. He enjoys playing Frisbee and other retrieving games. If you like to hike or jog, your Belgian Sheepdog will be happy to be by your side. Consider training him to compete in obedience, tracking, or agility. It doesn’t really matter what you do as long as you keep him busy. Don’t be surprised if he runs in large circles in your yard; it’s a remnant of his herding heritage.
Grooming & Bathing
Groenendael Belgian Shepherds require brushing and combing twice weekly, more often when shedding. Excessive brushing or combing can damage the undercoat.
Exercise & Training
The Groenendael Belgian Shepherd should be trained gently, but with determination. Groenendael Belgian Shepherds are highly adverse to harsh treatment; hitting or yelling at them will only have negative effects. Best results are achieved through awards-based training methods. Groenendael Belgian Shepherds require mental stimulation, so training should not be overly repetitive. Obedience and sport-specific training will reap great benefits and allow the Groenendael Belgian Shepherd to realize its full potential.
Belgian Shepherd Groenendael Picture Gallery
