Origin
The Belgian tervuren originated in the 19th century. These dogs have a great temperament and intelligence and they were used as herding dogs. They gained a great popularity in the dog shows and they are very well known for their grace and beauty. The Belgian tervuren was established in USA but is a rare breed. They are also one of the breeds of Belgian sheepdogs. They were named after the village tervuren. A man there bred a long haired dog with his own fawn dog. The tervuren is a great companion and a hard worker. They also have other talents like the sheepdogs as search, rescue, detection etc.
General Description
The Belgian tervuren is thin, well proportioned and strongly built. The have a muscular body but they are not bulky. They always have a proudy appearance. TheBelgian tervuren has level backs, straight boned limbs and cat like paws. Their chests are also well proportioned and balanced. They are not too wide or too narrow but they are extended to their elbows. Belgian tervurens have flat heads and their ears are triangular standing erect on their head. The Belgian tervurenhas almond shaped dark brown eyes, black nose and shrp teeth. Their tail is feathered and long which reaches almost the ground. They have a feathery coat with a dense undercoat. They have long fur all over their body. They are mainly found in mahogany, grey or fawn colour. Some patches of white are also found on their body.
Character
The Belgian tervuren is well known for its beauty and it is medium sized. They are strongly built, very athletic and alert. They have a graceful motion and at the same time they are capable of working in rough weather. This is a highly intelligent breed and capable of hard work. Belgian tervurens obey their masters very much. They are protective of their family and territory. Some of them are very shy and sensitive. They should not be left alone for a long time as they may get destructive in such situations. For this reason early socialization classes are required. They are good and loyal to their families and they form a strong relationship with one or two. These dogs are energetic and love to work. They are excellent to children but have a tendency of chasing other pets.
Temperament
Belgian tervurens are very loyal and devoted to their families and can become great companions. It requires a lot of attention and work. They should not be left alone for a long period of time. things may get worse in such situations. They are protective of their family and territory. Some dogs are very shy and sensitive.Belgian tervurens must not be exposed to non canine pets. They have a tendency of dominating other dogs. Very good to children and have a close attachment with one or two in the family. As this breed is herding breed they have a tendency of nipping at moving objects. The Belgian tervuren are very alert in nature which makes them good watch dogs.
Training
Early obedience and socialization classes are required. They can be trained well as they are very energetic and always willing to work. They are very obedient. Harsh training methods are not recommended. They may get stuboorn and uncooperative to that.
Health
The Belgian tervuren is a hardy breed it can be affected by skin allergies, epilepsy, eye problems. Just like other breeds they are affected by hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This breed shouldn’t be fed much as they have a tendency of gaining weight. Their average life span is 12-14 years and litter rate is 6-10
