Like other shepherd dogs that developed in Belgium in the 1800s, the Belgian Tervuren is a large, active dog that is excellent for police work. The breed is most closely related to the Belgian Sheepdog. It wasn’t until the early 1900s that the breed was recognized as its own. The Belgian Tervuren made its way to the United States, but never quite caught on as a popular breed. It was non-existent in the country until 1953. It was during this year that Belgian Tervurens were imported for a breeding program. In 1960, the Belgian Tervuren club was formed in America. Today, the dog is used as a herding dog. It is ranked 107 among 155 breeds recognized by the AKC in terms of popularity. The breed is popular among families as a companion animal.
The Belgian Tervuren was bred to herd, and that is why they have high endurance levels that are almost tireless. They can run fast for long periods of time. It has a double coat, with a dense undercoat and a coarse outer coat with long, straight hair.
Personality
These dogs are watchful, protective, very reliable, and devoted when given proper exercise. As they have high energy levels, they need vigorous exercise every day, they love to run and play. Their favorite activity is to herd. They need mental stimulation and are very smart. It is reserved towards strangers and can get aggressive towards other dogs. It is very affectionate but can be independent and domineering if not trained properly.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Herders |
| Function: | Working |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Herding |
| Life Span: | 10-12 Years |
| Nicknames: | Tervs, Belgian Shepherd Tervuren, Tervuren, Chien de Berger Belge |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Belgian Tervuren Build Information
The Belgian Tervuren was bred to herd, and that is why they have high endurance levels that are almost tireless. They can run fast for long periods of time. It has a double coat, with a dense undercoat and a coarse outer coat with long, straight hair.
| Size: | Medium |
| Length (Male): | 22-27 in. |
| Length (Female): | 22-24 in. |
| Weight: | > 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | No |
Behaviour and Personality
These dogs are watchful, protective, very reliable, and devoted when given proper exercise. As they have high energy levels, they need vigorous exercise every day, they love to run and play. Their favorite activity is to herd. They need mental stimulation and are very smart. It is reserved towards strangers and can get aggressive towards other dogs. It is very affectionate but can be independent and domineering if not trained properly.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Moderate |
| Barking: | Moderate |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | None |
| Energy Level: | Very Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | Yes |
| Independant: | Moderate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The Belgian Tervuren sheds heavily once each year. They shed moderately all year long. While the breed should need professional clipping, but it does need to be brushed regularly. Brush your dog for about 20 minutes once a week, and brush it quickly every day. This will prevent loose hairs from coating your clothing and furniture. Like any other breed of dog, the Belgian Tervuren should have its nails clipped every four weeks. Ears should be cleaned once every seven days, and if you are going to brush its teeth, do so daily.
| Colors: | Fawn, Gray, Mahogany, Tan Brindle |
| Shedding: | Constant |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Dense |
Belgian Tervuren Common Health Conditions
The Belgian Tervuren is a relatively healthy breed, but it is prone to some health issues. These include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and epilepsy. Like any other breed, this dog may suffer with ear infections, digestive issues, and upper respiratory infections. One of the problems that occur in large breed dogs is bloat. In this condition, the stomach fills with gas and twists over on itself. This can be a life-threatening condition. Do not let your Belgian Tervuren exercise directly after eating, gulp large amounts of water, or eat single, heavy meals.
Belgian Tervuren Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote
Breed Talents and Facts
The dog is often happiest when it is with its family. This breed has a high prey drive and a strong herding instinct. Belgian Tervuren’s can live with other pets if they are raised with them from a young age. The dog needs at least one hour of exercise each day to remain physically and mentally stimulated. People who love the Belgian Tervuren often refer to them as “Tervs”
| Training: | Hard |
| Hunting Companion: | No |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | Yes |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | Yes |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
| Police Performer: | Yes |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | Yes |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
