Belgian Shepherd Tervuren

The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is loyal and thrives on companionship. They are not recommended for inexperienced dog owners. They are protective and typically bond closely to one family member. They are suspicious and wary of strangers and will guard and protect their family, property, and territory. They do well with children they have been raised with but may not tolerate unfamiliar children. It is imperative that children not engage the Tervuren in chasing games, tug-of-war, or rough-house play. This breed does well with dogs they have been raised with but are not recommended for homes with non-canine pets. They do not do well if ignored or left alone for extended periods of time. Boredom and loneliness will lead to destructive behavior.

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 Tervuren needs strenuous activity, either a long walk or jog or an invigorating play or work session every day. He especially enjoys herding. His double coat needs brushing and combing twice weekly, more often when shedding.

The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren breed requires an inordinate amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. They are not recommended for city or apartment living. The Tervuren does best in a rural setting with a job to do and ample room to safely roam, run, work, and play.

Belgian Tervurens need attention, a job or activity, positive training and early socialization.

Weekly brushing is recommended to remove loose hair, debris, and prevent matting. Bathing should only be done when necessary. The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is prone to such health issues as anesthesia sensitivity, PRA, thyroid problems, cancer, epilepsy, and hip and elbow dysplasia.

Light shedding is continuous, with males shedding heavily once and year, females twice a year. The coat needs a good, thorough brushing once or twice a week. Long hairs on the feet and hocks should be trimmed. Prefers cooler climates, but adapts well to o