Considering getting a Belgian Tervuren? Makes sure you know the characteristics of the breed. We've put together the following Belgian Tervuren breed information and facts to create a profile of this dog so you have the critical information necessary to make a decision.
Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Origin
The Belgian Tervuren is one of four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd, with the others being the Groenendael, Malinois and Laekenois. Each breed is distinguished by their coat. The Belgian Tervuren in particular has a long, fawn to russet mahogany coat with black overlay.
The Belgian Shepherd’s known history begins in Belgium during the late 19th century. At that time, Belgian officials wanted to determine if there was a true shepherd dog that could stand as a symbol of their country. They decided to develop a standard for the Belgian Shepherd that included varieties with long coats, short coats and rough coats. The variety with the long, fawn-colored coat eventually became known as the Belgian Tervuren, named after the village of Tervuren where the breed’s foundation couple lived.
Size
The Belgian Tervuren weighs 47 to 62 pounds and measures 22 to 26 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Belgian Tervuren has a long, thick double coat. The Belgian Tervuren should be bathed when dirty and brushed twice a week. The Belgian Tervuren blows their coat twice a year with the change of seasons, but is a moderate shedder the rest of the year. Like all dogs, the Belgian Tervuren also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Belgian Tervuren is loyal and protective.
Temperament
The Belgian Tervuren craves attention from their family and will demand it from them. The Belgian Tervuren is sweet and affectionate, wanting nothing more than to be included and loved.
The Belgian Tervuren is devoted to their family, nearly to the point of being possessive if not well trained. The Belgian Tervuren is rarely out of sight and likes to follow their family members from room to room. The Belgian Tervuren was bred for many years to herd livestock and guard people and property, which helps explains their highly protective nature. As a natural guardian, the Belgian Tervuren makes an effective watchdog. The Belgian Tervuren is alert, courageous, and wary of new people and unfamiliar situations.
Training Needs
The Belgian Tervuren picks up training quite easily. The Belgian Tervuren likes learning and thrives on tasks that require them to use their mind as well as their body. Once they have the basics down, the Belgian Tervuren can go on to participate in obedience, herding, Schutzhund and agility, and can also be trained as a guide or therapy dog.
As part of their training, Belgian Tervurens also need early socialization. They can be nervous around new people and possessive of their family if not well socialized.
Activity Level
The Belgian Tervuren requires lots of activity and exercise. Without a regular outlet for them to burn energy, Belgian Tervurens can act out and become destructive. They are not well suited for apartment living and need plenty of time outside in a secure area to run around and play. Belgian Tervurens should always have a long daily walk and can also make good jogging or hiking partners.
