Belgian Tervuren Breed Information
Breed Group: Herding
Weight: 60-65 lbs
Height: Male: 24-26; Female: 22-24 inches
Color(s): rich fawn to russet mahogany with black overlay (becoming darker with maturity), black mask and ears
Belgian Tervuren
$1,200.00
Overview
This breed originated in the late 19th century. As herding dogs, the Belgian Tervuren was bred based on such traits as temperament, trainability, and intelligence. However, with the popularity of dog shows, breeders produced a breed that retained the original attributes as well as beauty and grace. Belgian Tervurens are well established in the United States, but is still relatively rare.
Character
Elegant in appearance, the Belgian Tervuren is well balanced and is of medium size. They are agile, alert, strong, and possess an inquisitive expression. This breed is graceful and lively in movement, and is capable of working in harsh weather or rough terrain. There are very few breeds that are more physically striking in appearance than the Belgian Tervuren.
Temperament
Belgian Tervurens are exceedingly loyal and deeply devoted. They thrive on human companionship and need to be an integral part of the family. They must be given loving attention for if they are ignored they will become destructive. The Belgian Tervuren has strong protective and territorial instincts, and is watchful, serious, and smart. They may also be sensitive and shy. They are good with older considerate well-behaved children. Caution and care must be taken when introducing this breed to non-canine pets. They may attempt to dominate other dogs. The Belgian Tervuren generally forms a close attachment with one or two family members. This is a very impressive breed that requires an experienced owner.
Care
The Belgian Tervuren requires daily brushing and combing to prevent tangles and mats. Bathing should be done once a month using a mild shampoo. They can be dry shampooed as necessary. Belgian Tervurens are prone to epilepsy, hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, aggressiveness, and shyness.
Coat
The Belgian Tervuren has a double coat that makes them adaptable to extreme climate or temperature. The outer coat consists of long guard hair that is close fitting, abundant, and straight. It is of medium harshness. The under coat is soft and dense. The hair is profuse around the neck, tail, and backs of legs. The Belgian Tervuren's coat is generally a base color ranging from fawn to mahogany, while the guard hairs are tipped in black. This breed darkens as it gets older. They are constant light shedders. Females will shed heavily twice a year, while males shed heavily once a year.
Training
This breed requires extensive and intensive socialization at an early age. They have an inordinate amount of energy and thrive on having something to do. They excel in working and competitive obedience, as well as police and guard work. The Belgian Tervuren will become uncooperative to harsh or overbearing training methods. They must be trained with firmness, fairness, respect, and consistency.
Activity
The Belgian Tervuren thrives on vigorous activity. They enjoy agility and play sessions with their family. They are not well suited for sedentary owners or apartment dwelling. Belgian Tervurens prefer a country setting with room to roam, or a home with a large securely fenced yard. They make terrific jogging and hiking companions as well as enthusiastic and trustworthy workers.