Origin
The Belgian sheepdog is also known as the Belgian Groenendael. The breed was named after the groenendale village in Belgium. All sheep dogs are strong and hardy in nature and they are also used for herding. It was first developed by a breeder from Gronendael. He mixed the Petite and Picard. This breed is a result of these two. This breed was used by the police, military, rescue work etc.
General Description
The Belgian sheepdogs are athletic, have a muscular body and always maintain a proud posture. They have large square shaped bodies and they have deep chest which reach the elbows. They have straight boned limbs and cat like paws. The Belgian sheepdog has a flat head and a tapered muzzle. They have black noses and sharp teeth. They have brown almond shaped eyes and triangular ears which stand erect. They have a long feathery coat all along their neck, tail, body, belly. Their lower legs and face are covered by short hair. They are found in total black colour.
Character
Belgian sheepdogs are loving, smart and alert in nature. They are also attentive at the same time. proper socialization classes should be taken from an early age and they are very protective of their owners and territory. Belgian sheepdogs have bad habit of nipping at the ankle of any moving person due to their herding instinct. Very intelligent breed and can become very good home dogs. They are serious and of watchful temperament. Some of them can be very shy and sensitive. If proper training is not provided these dogs can be come aggressive and uncooperative. They are generally good to children but they may be dominant and aggressive towards other dogs.
Temperament.
This breed is full of energy and they always should be indulged in activities. If not so then they may become destructive. They are good to children but aggressive to other dogs. It is a versatile breed, quick learning and very loving to people. The Belgian Sheepdog is highly trainable as they are very intelligent. They are very good companions, very much devoted but sometimes they are stubborn. Obedience classes are required from an early age.
Training
The Belgian sheepdog requires firm trainer. It is easy to train the Belgian sheepdog as they are very much obedient and intelligent. But they need to be socialized from early age and should not be left alone otherwise they may become destructive.
Health
It is generally a healthy breed but it may be affected by skin allergies, eye problem, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia etc. They should not be overfed as they have a chance of becoming lazy and bulky. Their average life span is 13-14 years and their average litter rate is 6-10.
