ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISBelgian shepherd tervueren
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog belgian shepherd tervueren!
Here, you will find all the useful information about belgian shepherd tervueren. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The Tervueren Belgian Shepherd Dog is, as its name suggests, of Belgian origin. The breed was created by a group of passionate breeders led by Professor Reul of the Veterinary School of Cureghen. Their aim was to develop 4 varieties of shepherd dogs in Belgium, including the Groenendael, Tervuerens, Laekenois and Malinois. The first official Belgian Shepherd Club was founded in September 1891 and the first standard was defined and published in 1894.
The Tervuren and the Groenendael are distinguished by their long coat, of a fawn colour, grey for the former and black for the latter, as for the Malinois, its coat is short, fawn and silky. Direct descendant of the sheepdogs present in Belgium. On the other hand, the Laekenois has a medium-long coat with a rough texture, and is the least common of the four. Their morphologies are absolutely identical in every respect, the difference between all these varieties is based solely on the length and texture of the coat. The International Cynological Federation registered it definitively on January 1, 1956, and its current standard was published on March 13, 2001, encompassing the four varieties, the Groenendael, Tervuerens, Laekenois and Malinois.
Officially recognized in 1909, the Tervueren Belgian Shepherd is well proportioned and ideally built for the tasks that have been assigned to it over the course of its evolution, they are hardy dogs, which do not need to spend a lot of money! Lower and less heavy than their cousin the German Shepherd, their head is well shaped, long, but without exaggeration, it remains in proportion to their muzzle, which is fine and chiselled. His eyes are of medium size and always dark in colour. The Belgian Shepherd is a very athletic dog, all muscle, yet he retains an extraordinary suppleness and impressive vigour. Solidly built, their neck and shoulders are stocky, with a firm and compact topline, their lower legs are thick and particularly energetic, allowing them to be powerful in their movements.
The character of the Tervueren Belgian Shepherd Dog was essentially designed for work, obedience and listening have no secrets for him. Extremely efficient as a guard dog, he is clever, lively, energetic and very courageous, he will not hesitate to defend his territory against all intruders who come to venture there. They are also very good family dogs, and can be gentle and affectionate, especially with children. However, their vigour can sometimes seem brutal with young children, and constant supervision is required during playtime.
They are very loyal to their owners and would not hesitate to give their lives for them in case of danger. All four varieties of Belgian Shepherds are full of energy, their daily expenditure needs are very high, without intense activity or frequent stimulation, the Tervueren could develop serious behavioural problems or become destructive, even aggressive. Also selected for its calmness, it knows how to keep its self control if the situation requires it, despite its great vitality, it can also live peacefully in a comfortable home and remain calm if no event comes to disturb its rest.
The Belgian Shepherd is a versatile dog and is particularly valued in a variety of fields such as security, police, military, missing persons, anti-terrorism and anti-drug trafficking. The Belgian Shepherd can bring a lot to a family if it gives him time and attention, if you are looking for a faithful companion, sporty and ready to do anything to please you, the Tervueren will correspond to you in all points, devoted and loyal, he will think of you before thinking of him!
Adult: The Belgian Shepherd Tervueren will weigh 55 to 66 lb for the male and 44 to 55 lb for the female, its height at the withers will be 23.6" to 26" for the males and 22" to 24.4" for the females.
Awareness of acquiring an animal
Each animal is a sensitive being, deserving love, attention and care.
When you choose to adopt an animal, you take on the responsibility of ensuring its health and well-being throughout its life.
To learn more about animal welfare, we invite you to consult our FAQ by clicking the button below:
Origins
The Belgian Tervuren Shepherd is one of the four varieties of Belgian Shepherds, the others being the Groenendael, the Malinois, and the Laekenois. This breed originates from Belgium, specifically from the Tervuren region, from which it takes its name. These dogs were originally bred for guarding and herding livestock, using their intelligence and energy to effectively carry out their tasks.
History
The history of the Belgian Tervuren Shepherd is closely linked to that of the other Belgian Shepherds. Towards the end of the 19th century, Belgian breeders began to standardize a long-haired shepherd dog breed, distinguished by its charcoal fawn coat and great work capacity. These dogs quickly became known for their versatility and intelligence, becoming favorites for both work and shows.
Standard
According to the breed standard, the Belgian Tervuren Shepherd must have an elegant and athletic appearance, with a strong yet agile body structure. The coat is usually long and fawn with traces of black, mainly on the muzzle and tail. The eyes should convey intelligence and attentiveness, and the ears should be erect and triangular.
Physical characteristics
Physically, the Tervuren is a medium-sized, muscular and elegant dog. It has a double coat, with a dense undercoat and a long, straight topcoat. Its charcoal fawn color is one of the most distinctive features, often accompanied by a black "mask" that covers the face.
Character
The character of the Tervueren is marked by great loyalty and a strong work ethic. They are very intelligent and attentive dogs, requiring constant mental engagement. They are also known to be protective towards their family, making them excellent guard dogs.
Life expectancy
The Belgian Tervuren Shepherd has a life expectancy of around 12 to 14 years, which is quite typical for a dog of its size. This longevity is supported by good overall health and an active lifestyle.
Exercise and activity needs
Tervuren require high levels of exercise and physical activity. They thrive on regular activities and mental challenges, and are often seen excelling in canine sports such as agility, flyball or competitive obedience.
Recommended diet
A balanced diet rich in high quality proteins is essential to keep the Tervueren healthy. It is important to monitor portions to prevent overweight, especially since the breed may be prone to metabolic disorders such as dysplasia.
Training and obedience
Early and consistent training is important for Tervueren. They respond well to positive reinforcement and may be sensitive to harshness. Their intelligence and desire to please make them easy to train in a variety of disciplines.
Behavior with children
Tervuerens can be excellent companions for children, provided they are socialized from a young age. They are playful and protective, but their size and energy may require supervision around very young children.
Compatibility with Other Animals
Socialized properly, they can peacefully coexist with other pets. However, their herding instinct can lead them to "herd" smaller animals, requiring proper supervision and training.
Grooming needs
Grooming the Tervuren is not excessively demanding but requires regular brushing to avoid knots and reduce hair loss. Special attention should be given during shedding periods.
Health
The breed is generally healthy, but may be predisposed to certain genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye problems. Regular checks with the veterinarian and genetic testing can help prevent or manage these conditions.
Average price
The price of a Belgian Tervuren Shepherd puppy can vary considerably depending on the lineage, location, and breeder, but on average, it ranges between 1000 and 1500 euros (approximately 1100 to 1650 dollars).
Expenses
Annual expenses for a Tervueren include food, veterinary care, insurance, and activities. These costs can range from 1000 to 2000 euros (1100 to 2200 dollars) per year, depending on the chosen care and activities.
Name ideas
Choosing a name for a Belgian Tervuren Shepherd can be inspired by its noble and energetic character. "Archer" means "one who shoots a bow", alluding to the precision and agility of the dog. "Blaze" evokes a lively fire, reflecting the passionate temperament of the Tervuren. "Cleo" derived from "Cleopatra", reminds of royalty and dignity. "Dexter" means "right-handed" in Latin, symbolizing strength and competence. "Echo" refers to the resounding sound, an ideal name for a responsive and attentive dog. "Fable" evokes a story full of mystery and adventure, ideal for a lively life companion. "Gala" represents celebration, perfect for a dog who is the center of attention. "Haven" means "refuge", emphasizing the protective role of the Tervuren. "Ivy", like the sturdy and tenacious plant, and "Juno", the protective goddess, are names that reflect the robustness and natural elegance of the breed.
Legislation and regulation
In many countries, the Belgian Tervueren Shepherd is subject to the same regulations as other breeds. This can include registration requirements, travel restrictions, and sometimes specific regulations in certain regions. It is important to inquire about local laws before adopting or moving with a Tervueren.
Official recognition
The Belgian Tervuren Shepherd is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which ensures its breed standard in many countries around the world. National breed clubs, such as the Belgian Shepherd Club in the United States, also support the breed and organize events.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees for Belgian Tervuren Shepherds are available through various recognized registries that document the lineage and ensure that breed standards are maintained. These documents are essential for responsible breeding and participation in dog shows.
Destination and usage
Traditionally raised as shepherd and guard dogs, Tervuerens are also used today in a variety of roles, including as service dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs, demonstrating their versatility and adaptability.
Prohibitions
Some countries or regions may impose specific restrictions on dog breeds, including the Belgian Tervuren Shepherd, due to temperament perceptions or safety concerns. It is crucial to check local regulations if you are considering importing a Tervuren into a new area. However, this dog breed is generally not subject to any bans in most countries around the world.
Breeders of Belgian shepherd tervueren
Want to see more breeders of Belgian shepherd tervueren?
Check out the page of our directory listing all breeders of Belgian shepherd tervuerenClassified Ads of belgian shepherd tervueren
No of belgian shepherd tervueren classified ads are available on Preeders.
If you’re a breeder, sign up for free now and be the first to post a classified ad
Breed clubs of belgian shepherd tervueren
No of belgian shepherd tervueren breed clubs are currently registered on Preeders.
If you would like to highlight your breed club, sign up for free now and be the first to appear on this page.