The Belgian Tervuren is an energetic yet serious herding breed. One of three in the Belgian herding dog family, the Tervuren is intelligent, elegant and devoted.

Physical Characteristics

• Large, square build
• Strong head
• Triangular-shaped, erect ears
• Small, almond-shaped eyes and black nose
• Full, long coat with dense undercoat; hair color can be fawn to mahogany with black tips
• Dark mask on face and ears
• Ruff around the neck
• Tapered tail covered with dense hair
• Height: 22-26 inches
• Weight: 60-75 pounds
• Average lifespan: 12-14 years

Temperament

• Smart, obedient, loyal, energetic, focused, serious, sensitive
• Interaction with people: Good with children; needs human companionship. Enjoys being with family
• Interaction with animals: Good with other pets if socialized as puppies
• Training: Needs firm but compassionate training from an experienced handler
• Protection: Good guard dog; very protective, watchful and alert

At Home

• Best in rural areas
• Loves being able to run free in safe areas

Grooming

• Heavy shedder twice a year
• Needs daily brushing
• Trim hair between toes and around ears

Brief History

• Native to Belgium
• Named after the Belgian village of Tervuren
• Initially used as guard dogs and herders
• Served as messengers, medical assistants and ammunition carriers during World War I

Fido's Facts

• Utilized on national borders as drug dogs
• Excellent service dog for the blind or disabled
• Most popular of the Belgian sheepdogs
• Known in Belgium as "Chien de Berger Belge"