New Dog World: Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Dog Breed: Graceful Messenger Dog

Monday 31 March 2014

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Dog Breed: Graceful Messenger Dog

Breed: Belgian Shepherd Tervuren

AKC Breed Group: Herding

Other Registries: ANKC (Working); CKC (Herding); FCI (Sheepdogs); KC (Pastoral); UKC (Herding)

Weight: 65-75; Female: 60-70 lbs

Height: 24-26; Female: 22-24 inches

Color: Fawn, Gray, Red; with Black Overlap. The Ears and Face are Black

Origin: Belgium

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Overview

This dog breed originated in Belgium and was developed for herding and guarding sheep. The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is one of four breeds of Belgian Shepherds and is considered to be the most glamorous. During World War I and II they were used as draft dogs, messengers and sentry dogs. Today, they are used as farm, police and guide dogs.

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Characteristics

A medium-sized, stable breed, the Tervuren has an elegant appearance and is renowned for its beautiful coat. This dog breed is impressive, graceful, strong, courageous, agile and alert.

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Temperament

This Shepherd is devoted and thrives on companionship. The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is not recommended for inexperienced dog owners. These dogs are protective and generally bond closely to one family member. The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is suspicious and wary of strangers and will guard and protect their family, property and territory. They do well with the children they have been raised with, but are somewhat intolerant with unfamiliar children. It is imperative that children not engage the Tervuren in chasing games, tug-of-war or rough play. This dog breed does well with dogs they have been raised with, but are not suitable for homes with non-canine pets. If bored or left alone for extended periods, they tend to become destructive.

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Care

This dog breed requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Bathing. The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is prone to anesthesia sensitivity, PRA, thyroid problems, cancer, epilepsy and hip and elbow dysplasia.

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Coat

This dog breed has a double coat breed. The outer coat of the Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is straight, long, and abundant. The under coat is dense and consists of fine, black hair. The hair is fluffy and more profuse on the chest, shoulders and neck.

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Training

This dog breed is very intelligent and obedient, but can be demanding and dominant. Early, intense and ongoing socialization and obedience training is essential. The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren resents and does not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, patience, consistency and reward.

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Activity

This dog breed requires an above average amount of physical exercise and stimulation. The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is not suited to city or apartment dwelling. The Tervuren does best in a rural setting where they have a job to do and plenty of room to roam and run.