Belgian Sheepdog Breed Profile

Quick Stats for the Belgian Sheepdog

Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)
Weight: dogs: 65 – 75 pounds (25 – 29 kg) ; bitches: 60 – 70 pounds (27 – 32 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1912
Shedding: heavy shedder (seasonal)
Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Sheepdog is playful but protective. It is a natural guard dog that was bred to protect animals and to be a herding dog for stock. They appear confident and proud, and are always alert to their surroundings. They have a natural drive to herd and run, non-stop, for hours.

These dogs are tough and have an independent personality. Yet, they are loving towards their family. Towards strangers, they can be intense and weary. They are moderately friendly towards others dogs and pets. If they are socialized early on they can also be great with children.

The Belgian Sheepdog is also an intelligent dog breed. This makes them easy to train, and a courageous and fearless protector.

History of the Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Sheepdog is a member of the Herding Group that originated in Belgium and have been around as far back as the 1800s. They were used mainly for herding stock.

This breed shares its history with the Belgian Malinois and the Belgian Tervuren. It is believed that all three dog shared a common ancestral breed in the Belgian Shepherd.

The Belgian Sheepdog came from a specific variation known as the Groenendael variation. These were working dogs that were used to herd and guard. This variation stood out from the others because of its long, black coat. They were also great police dogs and service dogs.

By the early 1900s, the Groenendael became a popular breed among Americans, who employed them mainly as police dogs. During World War I they were used as sentry dogs, draft dogs, and messengers. Eventually, the Groenendael became known as the Belgian Sheepdog, although it still keeps it original name in other parts of the world.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1912.

The Belgian Sheepdog Dog Care and Grooming

The Belgian Sheepdog needs to be able to expend its high levels of energy. Daily exercise through jogging, running, and playing should be an important part of their routine. If you can, provide them with the opportunity to play demanding games that will stimulate them both mentally and physically. Advanced obedience training and agility would be great for these dogs.

The Belgian Shepherd has a long, straight, medium length, heavy outer coat. They also have a dense undercoat. Grooming them should include a daily combing and brushing. Pay special attention to them when they are shedding.

This breed is a seasonal, heavy shedder. They usually shed heavily twice per year. However, some shedding can also be expected throughout the rest of the year.