Description: The Belgian Sheepdog is always alert, confident and an all-natural guardian, with the ability to protect stock and herd animals. The appearance of these dogs is of a muscular, yet proportioned and elegant canine, with heavy bone structure and energy to herd and run for hours on end.

These dogs have a temperament that can be best described as independent, tough yet loving, and playful, while still being protective. The Belgian Sheepdog can be weary and intense with strangers, and slightly friendlier with other pets and dogs. These dogs are an intelligent breed, so often easy to train, and makes a faithful protector.

History Of The Belgian Sheepdog: The origins of the Belgian Sheepdog date back to 1800's Belgium, and functioned at that time as stock herders. These dogs are believed to share a similar history to that of the Belgian Tervuren and Belgian Malinois. Those dogs were a local variation of a single breed, known at the time as a Continental Shepherd.

The specific dogs that resulted in the Belgian Sheepdog were known in its original times as a Groenendail variation. A working dog that was highly skilled as a herding and guard dog. The physical appearance of these dogs was distinctive in view of its black, long coat. Also operating as dependable service dogs and police canines.

By early 1900’s, these dogs were established in America, and employed in the main as a police dog. Throughout WWI, these dogs operated as sentry dogs, messengers, and draft dogs. Later in 1959 all variations of these dogs where split into three individual breeds. The name of 'Groenendael' was altered to the name known today of a Belgian Sheepdog.

Belgian Sheepdog Care: These dogs are in need of ample daily exercise to cope with the breeds high energy levels. In addition to a walk on a leash, the Belgian Sheepdog will also need a daily jog, run, or play to be content. A mixture of strenuous games and advanced training is ideal.

Apartment living isn't suited to this breed. Belgian Sheepdog's are in need of spacious surroundings, with easy access to a yard throughout the day, and to sleep inside with its family at nights. Grooming often consists of a thorough brushing two to three times each week to cope with its double coat.

Health Information: Health problems seen with the Belgian Sheepdog include skin disorders, hypothyroidism, seizures, and allergies, with CHD, pannus, hemangiosarcoma, and PRA rarely seen. Vets recommend that these dogs are checked for elbow, hip, eye, and thyroid related concerns.