Belgian Shepherd Laekenois

The Belgian Shepherd Laekenois is not recommended for inexperienced dog owners. This breed is extremely loyal, vigilant, and protective. They thrive on human companionship. They do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time and will become destructive if lonely or bored. Belgian Shepherd Laekenois's typically bond to one particular family member. They do well with children they have been raised with. It is important that this breed is never engaged in chasing games, tug-of-war, or rough-house play. They are not recommended for homes with non-canine pets. They will do well with dogs they have been with from puppyhood. They are suspicious of strangers and will guard and protect their family, property, and territory.

In Belgium, at the end of the 1800s, there were a great many herding dogs, whose type was varied and whose coats were extremely dissimilar. In order to rationalise this state of affairs, some enthusiastic dog fanciers formed a group and sought guidance from Prof. A. Reul of the Cureghem Veterinary Medical School, whom one must consider to have been the real pioneer and founder of the breed.

The breed was officially born between 1891 and 1897. On September 29th, 1891, the Belgian Shepherd Dog Club (Club du Chien de Berger Belge) was founded in Brussels and in the same year on November 15th in Cureghem, Professor A. Reul organised a gathering of 117 dogs, which allowed him to carry out a return and choose the best specimens. In the following years they began a real programme of selection, carrying out some very close interbreeding involving a few stud dogs.

By April 3rd, 1892, a first detailed breed standard had already been drawn up by the Belgian Shepherd Dog Club. One single breed was allowed, with three coat varieties. However, as was said at the time, the Belgian Shepherd only belonged to ordinary people and therefore the breed still lacked status.

The Malinois is a high-energy dog that needs a lot of exercise. His needs cannot be met with a leisurely walk on leash, and instead needs a good jog or a vigorous play session. He especially enjoys herding. The Malinois needs weekly brushing, more when shedding.

Belgian Shepherd Laekenois's require an inordinate amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. They are not recommended for city or apartment living. The Laekenois does best in a rural setting with a job to do and ample room to safely roam and run. They excel in herding, search and rescue, tracking, police work, and sledding.

Daily combing of the coat is essential to prevent matting. Professional trimming should be done twice a year. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. The Belgian Shepherd Laekenois breed is prone to such health issues as eye problems, skin allergies, and hip and elbow dysplasia.

<strong>It is not hard to train because it is an obedient dog which learns pretty fast. It is an independent breed with a strong character and that is why they need training from an early age and accustomed to new things, persons and animals. They must not be hit and should be used a gentle tone, but firm. Most of these dogs enjoy ball games, swimming, running beside the bike and long walks. They are successful at agilitycontestsand flyball.</strong>

Its fur must be cut twice a year, itr doesn't have to be cut short because the it will damage the hair for many years ahead. For combing, a comb with large teeth must be used. It needs socialization and training.

The short coat sheds twice a year with some additional shedding year round. Like many herding breeds, young puppies can be somewhat nippy. Needs to be handled by an experienced owner who can train with consistency and skill. If improperly socialized or tr