Belgian Tervuren

Standard Belgian Tervuren Characteristics

About the Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren was created in Belgian as a livestock herding dog.

Today however the dog is more versatile and is used as a companion, security, and assistance dog.

The Belgian Tervuren Temperment and Intelligence

Belgian Tervurens are intelligent and courageous dogs. They adore their masters and are ever watchful and protective of them. They are very loyal and love to be in the company of their family. They prefer to be in the home when the family is around and not outdoors or alone. They are good with children if socialized with them from a young age. They can be territorial and aggressive when faced with other pets so time should be spent in socializing them with other animals as well. These dogs are full of energy and thus they are not for everyone. They are also somewhat difficult to train and thus need to be trained early and well socialized. They should also be kept in the care of an experienced handler who is firm but not mean.

Belgian Tervuren Characteristics

Tervurens have dark brown almond shaped eyes with triangular shaped erect ears. Their pointy muzzle sits atop their strong jaws. Their nose is solid black, as are their lips. They have a strong tail which hangs low when at rest and has a slight curve in it when in action. Their shoulders form a perfect right angle with their long, muscular legs. They have small cat like feet with toes that are curved and padded, strong nails. The coat on this dog is harsh and straight. The hair is short on their head, ears, and legs while it is very long around the neck and back of the forearms. Usually fawn to mahogany with black overlay, this dog has a double pigmented coat that gets darker the older the dog gets. On a male the black is more prominent on the shoulders, back and ribs. Their chest is usually a mix of black and grey though a little white is allowed. They have a black mask, white chin, and beige colored underbelly areas.

Belgian Tervuren Health Concerns

A very healthy breed overall, the Belgian Tervuren, has no major health concerns. Some documented health issues have been eye problems, shyness, aggressiveness, and dysplasia.

Choosing a Belgian Tervuren

This breed will do well in an apartment with a lot of exercise though they prefer a house with a large yard since they are quite active both indoors and outdoors.

More Information on the Belgian Tervuren Breed:

You can also browse the forums for more information by owners of this wonderful breed. See the following:

Discuss the Belgian Tervuren Here
View Belgian Tervuren Pictures in the Forum Here