• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)
• Weight: 75 – 85 pounds (35 – 40 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1908
• Shedding: constant shedder; seasonal heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; best with a large yard

Personality of the German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is currently listed as one of the most popular dog breeds registered with the AKC.  This dog resembles that of its ancestor, the Wolf, and was originally bred to be the ideal hunting Shepherd and guard dog.

German Shepherds score very high in terms of protection ability, watchdog status, and training adaptability.  Although playfulness and affection does not rank as high as other dog breeds, the German Shepherd is actually a perfect choice for a family pet.

This dog is extremely protective of its home, as well as members of the family. He is considered aloof and a bit suspicious towards strange people and other animals.  However, they can be tamed and gentle around children and other house pets.

History of the German Shepherd Dog Breed

Although this breed went through several name changes during World War I, mainly due to its German heritage, it was officially renamed the German Shepherd. And while its popularity ranking is down just a bit, it has been a top choice as a family companion for generations.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1908.

The German Shepherd Dog Care and Grooming

As far as care and maintenance is concerned, German Shepherds need mental and physical challenges on a daily basis.  With the ability to learn new tricks and obedience lessons, this dog is extremely intelligent.  Physical activity must also be a part of this dog’s daily life.  Long walks and running outside is ideal.

Health Problems of the German Shepherd Breed

The average life expectancy of the German Shepherd is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• elbow dysplasia

Minor health issues include:

• skin allergies
• hemangiosarcoma
• malignant neoplasms
• cataracts
• elbow dysplasia
• degenerative myelopathy
• gastric torsion
• hot spots

Veterinarians recommend having the German Shepherd tested specifically for hip and elbow problems.

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 60 - 75 pounds (27- 34 kg) ; bitches: 50 - 65 pounds (23- 29 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 14 – 16 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1885
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Collie Dog Breed

Collies are gentle, mild mannered dogs that will get along with almost anyone they meet. They are highly intelligent and easy to train. These dogs are very loyal and protective of their families. Because of their sweet and docile personality, they are also excellent with children.

However, with all their friendliness they still make excellent watchdogs. They tend to be suspicious of certain people, as if they can sense some bad vibes or something.

History of the Collie Dog Breed

The exact origin of the Collie is unknown. Some experts believe that the breed shares a similar bloodline as the Border Collie dog breed.

Guardian dogs and sheep herding dogs have been around for a very long time. However, evidence of the Collie performing in these job roles seem to go back only as far as the beginning of the 1800s. The evidence suggests that both the rough-coated and the smooth-coated varieties were in existence at that time.

The smooth-coated Collie was use for driving flock. The rough-coated Collie were the flock guardians, performing their duties in all types of weather. Over time, the breed was refined and bred to be taller in size.

In 1860, Queen Victoria became quite fascinated with the breed and obtained her first Collie. Of course this caused many upper class families to follow the Queen and get their own dogs. By the late 1800s, an official breed standard was drafted and that standard is still used today.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1885 as a member of the Herding Group.

The Collie Dog Breed Care and Grooming

A Collie requires plenty of daily exercise. Take them on a long daily walk, and if possible, provide them with some time off leash to run and play in a safe area.

The Collie has a stiff coat that will shed dirt easily. Their grooming requirements are minimal and a good weekly brushing with a high quality dog grooming brush should be sufficient to keep the coat in good condition. Take special care when they are shedding their soft undercoats.

There are two types of coats for the Collie – a smooth variety and a rough coat variety. The smooth-coated Collie has a one-inch coat that should be brushed weekly or biweekly. The rough-coated Collie should be brushed a bit more frequently.

The smooth Collie is an average shedder, while the rough Collie sheds heavily twice per year.

Health Problems of the Collie Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Collie dog breed is about fourteen to sixteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• demodicosis
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• dermatomyositis
• CEA (Collie Eye Anomoly)
• gastric torsion

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• seizures
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• microphthalmia

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more in depth information about the Collie check out the book – Rough & Smooth Collies (Book of the Breed).

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 10 – 13 inches (25 – 33 cm)
• Weight: 25 – 30 pounds (11 – 14 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1935
• Shedding: seasonal shedder – twice per year
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); can be very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is an energetic dog. They are intelligent, obedient, fun-loving and friendly. These dogs make excellent pets as well as great watchdogs. They are great with children.

They are friendly towards people and other household pets. However, they can be reserved when a strange dog approaches them.

Corgis have a tendency to herd people by nipping at their heels and should be taught not to do this from an early age.

History of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi has its origin in Wales, going back to ancient times. They were one of the first breeds to arrive in the British Isles. These dogs were brought to Cardiganshire from central Europe many centuries ago. They were used to drive cattle.

Where the breed actually came from is unknown. However, some experts believe that the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a descendant of a short-legged, English turn-spit dog that is now extinct.

The breed was originally used to protect and guard their families. Some of these dogs were used to assist hunters. Eventually, framers realized that the breed was a natural cattle dog, great at keeping cattle moving by nipping at their heels. There were also agile enough to dodge any kicks from the cattle.

Over time, the Crown lands were divided and fenced. This made the Corgi’s job and usefulness all but go away. Some dogs were still kept as companions, but the breed almost became extinct.

To preserve the breed, it was crossed with the brindle herder. The breeding efforts worked well and the first Cardigan Welsh Corgi made its way to the United States in 1931. The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1935 as a member of the Herding Group.

These dogs are cousins to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi Care and Grooming

Although Corgis are small dogs they still require sufficient exercise. They have moderate energy levels so take them on a couple of brisk walks daily, or provide them with active games in a safely enclosed area. They love herding activities and can get mental stimulation through dog training sessions.

Grooming requirements include a weekly brushing of their wiry, medium length coat to remove any dead hairs. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, such as a quality brush from Chris Christensen.

These dogs are seasonal shedders, shedding twice per year.

Health Problems of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The average life expectancy of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is about twelve to fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

Minor health issues include:

• degenerative myelopathy
• gains weight easily

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• urinary stones

Veterinarians recommend having the Cardigan Welsh Corgi tested specifically for PRA, hip, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 19 – 24 inches (48 – 61 cm)
• Weight: 35 – 55 pounds (16 – 25 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1997
• Shedding: heavy shedder; seasonal shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Canaan Dog Breed

The Canaan Dog is athletic, graceful, quick, and agile. They are loving and playful with family members, which make them great family dogs. However, they can be aloof and reserved around strangers which make them excellent watchdogs.

These dogs are natural guardians, so they tend to bark more than other herding dogs.

They are very intelligent and usually do really well at obedience. They are also good at agility, tracking, and herding.

History of the Canaan Dog Breed

The origin of the Canaan Dog goes really far back to ancient Israel. The breed developed through many centuries of hardship.

Researchers believe that the breed originated in the biblical land of Canaan. During early times, these dogs were known as the Kelev Kanani, which means the Dog of Canaan.

After the Romans came through Israel some 2000 years ago, these dogs were left to fend for themselves. They survived in the Negev Desert and the Sebulon Coastal Plain. The male puppies were taken in by the Bedouins and used for guarding livestock. Over time the dogs honed their herding skills, becoming excellent herders and protectors.

Dr. Rudolphina Menzel is considered the founder of the breed, and their existence today is largely because of her efforts. Dr. Menzel found feral Canaan Dogs, captured them and started a breeding program. These dogs quickly became great sentry dogs, loyal messengers, and were routinely used for mine detection during World War II.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1997 as a member of the Herding Group.

The Canaan Dog Breed Care and Grooming

In general, herding dogs require lots of exercise daily and the Canaan dog falls right into this category. These dogs have moderately high levels of energy so take them on at least a brisk walk every day. You can also provide mental and physical stimulation by playing active games with them. If possible, provide them with herding activities, they just love that.

Grooming requirements for their short coat includes a light weekly brushing to remove dead hairs from the coat. You may want to invest in a high quality brush from Chris Christensen products.

These dogs are very clean without the typical doggie odor.

The breed is a seasonal heavy shedder.

Health Problems of the Canaan Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Canaan Dog breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

The Canaan Dog is an amazingly healthy breed. There are no major or minor health concerns that seem to affect them.

Veterinarians recommend having the Canaan Dog breed tested specifically for hip problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 27 inches (61 – 68 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 25 inches (56 – 64 cm)
• Weight: 75 pounds (35 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1928
• Shedding: light shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Briard Breed

The Briard is a loyal and intelligent dog. They are friendly towards other family members and other pets, but are very reserved around strangers and other dogs. They make excellent watchdogs and family protectors. They should be socialized early on, especially around children.

These dogs usually do well with children as long as they are raised together. Supervise them around other children who may tease them, since they do not like to be teased at all.

History of the Briard Breed

The Briard originated in France and can be traced as far back as the 1300s. Originally, they were bred to be herding dogs and worked as livestock guardians. The Briard and the Beauceron both originated from French sheep dogs. However, Beauceron dogs came from a short-coated line.

The Briard did not actually gets its name until sometime in the 1800s. The first breed standard was drafted in 1897, and they entered the show ring around 1900.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1928.

The Briard Breed Care and Grooming

Like other members of the Herding Group, the Briard requires a lot of daily exercise. Long daily walks, active outdoor games, or running along while you ride your bicycle are all great activities for the Briard. When given the opportunity, they love to herd. In fact, if left unsupervised, they have a tendency to herd small children.

The Briard has a coarse, dry outer coat which does not easily hold dirt and water. You still need to brush their long coats at least three to four times weekly to prevent matting and tangles. Be prepared to spend a couple hours brushing the coat, and longer if you have neglected it for a while.

These dogs shed very little if they are kept well groomed.

Health Problems of the Briard Breed

The average life expectancy of the Briard breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• gastric torsion

Minor health issues include:

• night blindness
• cataracts
• bloat

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) – in some dogs

Veterinarians recommend having the Briard breed tested specifically for hip, eye, and cardiac problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 23 – 28 inches (58 – 71 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 27 inches (56 – 69 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 75 – 90 pounds (34 – 41 kg)  ; bitches: 60 – 80 pounds (27 – 36 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1931
• Shedding: light shedder (sheds very little)
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; best with large yard

Personality of the Bouvier des Flandres Dog

The Bouvier des Flandres is an adventurous and independent dog. They are quite fearless and protective by nature which makes them an excellent watchdog. They are confident and bold, and an all around great guard dog.

They tend to have a dominant personality which can usually be addressed with proper training. They learn commands very quickly, and will remember a command once they are taught.

They are protective of their family and will not hesitate to defend them. They are great family dogs and are excellent with children. However, they can be reserved around other dogs and pets.

History of the Bouvier des Flandres Dog

The Bouvier originated in Belgium. Their history can be traced as far back as the 1600s. In early times, the Bouvier des Flandres was used by cattle merchants and farmers to herd and guard their livestock. They also excelled at a variety of other tasks as well. The breed lived mainly in the Flanders region, and the French northern plains.

Like many other working dogs, Bouvier dogs came in a variety of sizes, colors, and types. The actual breeds that make up the Bouvier is unknown. Some people claim that that the breed is made up of a variety of Spaniels, Mastiff, and Sheepdog. Others believe that the breed may have been formed by crossing the Griffon and the Beauceron.

In 1912, the first official breed standard was drafted for the Bouvier des Flandres. Unfortunately, many of these wonderful dogs were killed during World War I. But in 1923, a group of dog enthusiasts began working on recreating the Bouvier des Flandres breed.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1931.

The Bouvier des Flandres Dog Care and Grooming

The Bouvier can tolerate cool weather because of its heavy coat, but they do not enjoy the warm weather. They are actually capable of living outdoors during the winter months, but would rather live indoors with the rest of their family.

These dogs are active and have high levels of energy. They need daily exercise including long walks, vigorous outdoor games, and even running along while you ride your bike. If possible, they should be given the opportunity to herd.

The Bouvier des Flandres requires a lot of grooming maintenance. Grooming requirements include a good brushing at least twice per week. This will keep the long, thick coat clean. You may want to have the coat professionally groomed every eight to ten weeks.

As long as you keep your Bouvier well groomed, they should only shed very little hair.

Learn more about proper dog grooming tools.

Health Problems of the Bouvier des Flandres Dog

The average life expectancy of the Bouvier des Flandres dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• SAS (Sub-Aortic Stenosis)
• glaucoma
• elbow dysplasia
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism

Veterinarians recommend having the Bouvier des Flandres dog tested specifically for hip problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 19 – 22 inches (48 – 56 cm) ; bitches: 18 – 21 inches (46 – 53 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 30 – 45 pounds (14 – 20 kg)  ; bitches: 27 – 42 pounds (12 – 19 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1995
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; very active indoors; best with wide open space

Personality of the Border Collie Dog Breed

Border Collies are often mentioned as the most intelligent dog breed, and can be found on almost any list of the smartest dogs. They are also very obedient. These dogs are loyal, affectionate, and protective towards its family.

They are excellent with children, and can get along with other dogs. However, they may show signs of aggression around dogs of the same sex. You should also be careful of leaving them around smaller household pets.

Because of their strong herding instinct, they may occasionally try to herd small children and strangers, but as long as you teach them that this is not acceptable behavior, they should be fine.

History of the Border Collie Dog Breed

The Border Collie has been around for at least 100 years. These sheep herding dogs were abundant in Great Britain during the 1800s, but were actually of different varieties. Most of them were used to circle stock and guide them back towards their main flock. At the time, they were simply called Sheepdogs. At one point in time, they were also known as the Scotch Sheep Dog.

These dogs were developed in the border counties between Scotland and England.

They became very popular in 1873 when the first official sheepdog trials took place. This event was meant to test a sheepdog’s quality and functions.

Although these dogs became quite popular and excelled at herding, it wasn’t until 1915 when their name officially became the “Border Collie”. Soon after, they were brought to America where they also became quite popular among shepherds for their amazing herding abilities.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1995.

The Border Collie Dog Breed Care and Grooming

The Border Collie must have daily physical and mental stimulation. Without sufficient exercise and stimulation, they can become bored easily, which can then lead to destructive behaviors. Take them on long, brisk, daily walks.

They are very energetic dogs that love to work and would do best with a family who lives and active lifestyle.

The Border Collie requires regular grooming by combing and brushing the coat. Pay special attention to the soft, dense undercoat, especially when they are shedding.

These dogs are average shedders.

Health Problems of the Border Collie Dog Breed

The average lifespan  of the Border Collie dog breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus)
• CEA (Collie Eye Anomoly)
• seizures
• OCD
• lens luxation
• flea allergies

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 65 – 75 pounds (29 – 34 kg)  ; bitches: 60 – 70 pounds (27 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1959
• Shedding: constant light shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is an intelligent and active dog. They were bred to guard and herd livestock. These dogs are very strong, and show great agility and speed. They have the energy to work, herd, and run all day.

The temperament of the Tervuren is quite playful. But they are alert and reserved around strangers. They are natural watchdogs and will protect their family fearlessly. These dogs make great house pets and are safe with children. However, some dogs may nip in an attempt to herd the children.

History of the Belgian Tervuren

The history of the Belgian Tervuren can be traced back to around 1800s. They originated in Belgium and are actually one of four Belgian dog breeds. All four breeds share similar characteristics with the exception of the coat type and color patterns. They are:

• Groenendael – long, black hair
• Malinois – wire haired
• Laekenois – wire haired
• Tervuren – non-black haired

All of these dogs were use for herding and as guardians of livestock.

The Tervuren was named after a small Belgian village. They were not quite as popular as the other Belgian shepherd breeds, but were still registered by the AKC.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1959.

The Belgian Tervuren Care and Grooming

These dogs enjoy moderately cool and warm temperatures and preferably should have time outdoors daily.

Like other herding dogs, the Belgian Tervuren needs lots of daily exercise. The best activities include games that are challenging and that provide mental and physical stimulation. Because of their intelligence, these dogs are easily trained. They enjoy herding activities if given the opportunity.

Grooming requirements for the Tervuren’s long, straight, heavy outer coat, and dense undercoat includes a good brushing and combing at least two to three times per week. Look for mats in the ruff and outer legs. Clip between the toes and the outer ears as necessary.

The breed is a constant light shedder. Males shed heavily annually and females shed heavily twice per year.

Health Problems of the Belgian Tervuren

The average life expectancy of the Belgian Tervuren is about ten to twelve years.

This breed has no major health concerns.

Minor health issues include:

• epilepsy
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• hypothyroidism
• allergies
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• elbow dysplasia
• tendency for obesity

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• hemangiosarcoma
• pannus
• PPM (Persistent Pupillary Membrane)
• cataracts

Veterinarians recommend having the Belgian Tervuren tested specifically for hip, elbow, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• 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.

Health Problems of the Belgian Sheepdog

The average life expectancy of the Belgian Sheepdog is about ten to twelve years.

There are no major concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• allergies
• seizures
• hypothyroidism
• skin disorders

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• hemangiosarcoma
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• elbow dysplasia
• pannus

Veterinarians recommend having the Belgian Sheepdog tested specifically for thyroid, hip, elbow, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)
• Weight: 55 – 65 pounds (25 – 29 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1959
• Shedding: constant shedder; light shedder; heavy shedder twice per year
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Belgian Malinois Dog

The Belgian Malinois is an intelligent and high-energy member of the Herding Group. They are loyal and playful with their family and are great around children. They can get along with other dogs and other pets if properly socialized.

They must be trained and have a strong leader as their owner. This is because they were bred to be a guard dog and can have a very dominant personality.

The Malinois is reserved around strangers, and always on alert, ready to protect and guard their family and their domain.

History of the Belgian Malinois Dog

As you may guess, this dog breed originated in Belgium. Their history goes as far back as the 1800s. The original Belgian sheep herding dogs were called the Chiens de Berger Belge. These dogs were used for various jobs, such as service dogs and guardians of livestock. They were bred to be mainly working dogs.

During this time, there were several other varieties of  Belgian working dogs, which makes it difficult to say that any of the breeds we know today were a part of those breeds. However, it is believed that in 1891, a particular short-coated variety was developed in a region around Malines. These dogs became what we know today as the Belgian Malinois.

This dog breed is still very popular in its native Belgium, but not quite so popular in the United States. After World War II their numbers dwindled in America. However, since then, the Belgian Malinois has become one of the most prominent police service dogs in the world.

They share a common foundation with the Belgian Sheepdog and the Belgian Tervuren.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1959.

The Belgian Malinois Dog Care and Grooming

The Belgian Malinois can tolerate both cool and warm temperatures. Access to a fenced in area to allow them to play freely is recommended. They can live outdoors, but do prefer an indoor life with their family.

These dogs require plenty of exercise and are best suited for families and owners that life an active lifestyle. They are not dogs that you can just keep locked up inside. Belgian Malinois dogs need time to play outdoors. Play games that require a great deal of physical activity and mental stimulation to allow them to expend their energy. You can also provide them with sufficient exercise by allowing them to sprint, or taking them on a fast-paced jog.

These dogs will really enjoy any herding activities if given the chance.

As far as grooming is concerned, a light weekly brushing of their smooth, short-haired coat should be sufficient to remove any dead hairs. Brush them with a firm bristle dog grooming brush. Give them a bath only when necessary.

These dogs are considered light shedders, but they shed constantly. Twice per year they shed heavily.

Health Problems of the Belgian Malinois Dog

The average life expectancy of the Belgian Malinois is about ten to twelve years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• elbow dysplasia
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• cataracts
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• hemangiosarcoma
• pannus

Veterinarians recommend having the Belgian Malinois Dog tested specifically for hip, elbow, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book: