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Belgian Sheepdog
Also known as: Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael variety)
Breed origin: Belgium
Original purpose: Versatile sheep dog.
AKC recognized: 1912
AKC group: Herding
Size:
Height: males 24 to 26 inches;
females 22 to 24 inches
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© Rks (Rolf Klebsattel) | Dreamstime.com
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Color: Black, sometimes with small amounts of white.
Life span: 10 to 14 years.
General characteristics/temperament: Belgian Sheepdogs are strong, agile, well muscled, alert, courageous, intelligent, inquisitive, and full of life. As companions, they are gentle, affectionate, devoted, very possessive, and naturally protective of their masters and their property without being overly aggressive. They are watchful and attentive, and are observant and vigilant with strangers, but not apprehensive. They possess a strong desire to work and are most content when given a job to do. This breed is closely related to three other breeds: the Belgian Laekenois, the Belgian Malinois, and the Belgian Tervuren. In fact, the only difference between these four breeds is their coat type, the Sheepdog having the a mostly black coat.
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© Rks (Rolf Klebsattel) | Dreamstime.com
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Protective? Yes
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© Rks (Rolf Klebsattel) | Dreamstime.com
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Intelligent? Yes
Energy/Activity Level: High
Good jogging partner? Yes
Suitable canine sports/activities: conformation, obedience, Schutzhund, herding, sledding, tracking, search and rescue, therapy, guiding and assistance, police work
Known health problems: Cataracts, epilepsy, thyroid problems, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, pannus.
Additional photos of Belgian Sheepdog
Recommended books for further reading:Show fewer books
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
Belgian Sheepdog Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
Belgian Sheepdog Club of America Rescue
DogBreedMatch
