The Belgian Tervuren is an intelligent, loyal, and protective herding dog originating from Belgium. They are medium to large sized dogs with a fawn to mahogany double coat and require significant exercise and training.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Belgium as a herding dog, the Tervuren also served as a watchdog and companion.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
22-24 inches (56-61 cm)
45-60 pounds (20-27 kg)
Male
24-26 inches (61-66 cm)
55-75 pounds (25-34 kg)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Fawn to mahogany with black overlay, may have black mask
Type
Double coat
Length
Medium to long
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate to heavy
Grooming
Regular brushing, more during shedding
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Well-defined, strong without being heavy
Skull
Flat rather than rounded
Ears
Triangular, erect and firm
Eyes
Brown, almond-shaped
Nose
Black
Muzzle
Tapering, moderately pointed
Teeth
Strong, scissors bite
Neck
Muscular, slightly arched
Forequarters
Muscular and powerful
Fore Legs
Straight and parallel
Hindquarters
Strong and well-muscled
Hind Legs
Parallel
Feet
Round and cat-like
Tail
Medium-length, reaching at least to the hock, carried down or slightly curved
Gait
Smooth, effortless, agile
Temperament
Intelligent, alert, loyal, protective, and sensitive
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate
Good with Children
Good with children, especially when raised together
Good with Dogs
Good with other dogs when properly socialized
Good with Cats
May be good with cats when raised together
Openness to Strangers
Reserved, may be wary
Playfulness Level
Moderately playful
Protective Nature
Highly protective
Adaptability Level
Moderately adaptable
Working Roles
Herding, guarding, police work, search and rescue, assistance dog
Exercise Needs
High; needs a lot of physical and mental exercise
Health
Generally healthy but can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye problems
Additional Notes
Requires consistent training and socialization from a young age. Not suitable for apartment living without sufficient exercise.
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