General Description

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(Tervuren, Chien de Berger Belge) The Belgian Tervuren is one of four types of Belgian Sheepdogs. The breed is slender, squarely proportioned, and strong. Their elegantly muscled bodies are strong and carried proudly, but they are not bulky or heavy. Their backs are level and their hindquarters are solidly muscled. The limbs are straight and feature round, cat-like feet. Their chests are neither wide nor narrow, but they are very deep and extend to the level of the elbows. The skull is flat and parallel to the plane of the tapered muzzle. Ears of this breed are in proportion to the size of the dog’s head. Their noses are black and their teeth close in a level or scissors bite. They have a set of small, almond-shaped eyes that are dark in color and a long, feathered tail that reaches to the level of the hock. The Belgian Tervuren has a medium to long coat that consists of a dense under layer and a straight, black-tipped outer coat. Extra feathering occurs on the rump, ruff, neck, and the back of the legs. The coat’s base color is fawn, mahogany, or gray. White markings may be present. As the Belgian Tervuren gets older, his coat is likely to become darker.

This breeds fur is thick, deep and incredibly soft.

Character

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The Belgian Tervuren is a working dog that is highly intelligent and obedient. They have serious dispositions and strong natural protective and territorial instincts. Some Belgian Tervurens may be excessively shy or sensitive. As with all other breeds of Belgian Sheepdogs, the Belgian Tervuren needs firm, patient, and understanding training from an early age. Improper socialization of this breed can result in the onset of destructive or anti-social behavior. When properly trained, the Belgian Tervuren makes an excellent family companion. They typically form strong bonding relationships with one or two people. This breed has a lot of energy and is happiest when it has a job to do. The Belgian Tervuren is loving, affectionate, and loyal, and he thrives on the affection he gets from his family.

General Health

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The Belgian Tervuren is a hardy breed with few major health concerns. Epilepsy, skin allergies, and eye problems have been spotted on rare occasions. Belgian Tervurens are also susceptible to excessive shyness. As with the majority of other larger dog breeds, hip and elbow dysplasia are somewhat of a concern. This breed shouldn’t be overfed. They have a tendency to become overweight and lazy. The Belgian Tervuren typically lives for 12 to 14 years. They average 6 to 10 puppies per litter.

History

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The Belgian Tervuren is one of four types of Belgian Sheepdogs. The breed was named for the village of Tervuren and founded by a man named Brewer M. Corbeel. Mr. Corbeel bred a black longhaired dog with his own fawn dog. The popularity of the Belgian Tervuren is steadily increasing, and more and more people are purchasing Belgian Tervurens as companion dogs. Initially utilized as a working breed, the Belgian Tervuren has a significant number of natural abilities and talents including search & rescue, sledding, tracking, obedience, agility, and detection.

Maintenance

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The Belgian Tervuren has a comparatively long, straight coat that consists of a heavy outer layer and a dense under layer. The coat should be brushed and combed on a daily basis, and mats should be clipped out. Special attention should be given to the ruff and the backs of the legs, where mats are more likely to form. Hair should be kept trimmed between the toes and around the outer ears. The Belgian Tervuren is a light constant shedder, and he sheds heavily twice per year.

Ideal Environment

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The Belgian Tervuren is a hardy working breed that is accustomed to living an active outdoor existence. They are content to live in a small household or apartment, as long as they are given sufficient exercise. They are happiest with a minimum of at least an average-sized yard. This breed needs as much time off the leash as possible. They are capable of sleeping outdoors, but they much prefer sleeping inside with their families. The Belgian Tervuren is used to cooler climates, but can adapt well to others.

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