Ventana Belgian Shepherds
The Belgian
Shepherd Dog - Four Varieties, One Breed
© Lynda Trotter
The Belgian Shepherd is a rare breed for two reasons.
Firstly, not too many people have discovered the joys of owning one of
these endearing dogs, which means that they have not yet been totally
ruined by unscrupulous breeding practices, and secondly, because while not
the only breed with more than one variety, it is shown as Four varieties
yet ONE breed!
The aim of this article is to give you an
overall impression of the Belgian Shepherd, so that you can make an
informed decision as to whether this is the Breed for you. The Belgian
Shepherd is not for everyone. He is an energetic dog with a profound love
of life and fun so will not suit those who are looking for a doormat. He is
a versatile dog with great affection for his family, which he will guard
with his life if the need arose. Easy to train, fun to own and once you
have one, you will find, as we have, that they are contagious!
INTRODUCTION
This info sheet will give a brief
description of the Belgian Shepherd Dog for those who are considering this
breed for their next companion. It will also present to you a list of
qualities that make them such a gentle friend for children, a staunch
protector of their owners and an obedient companion.
CHARACTERISTICS
Often used around the world, and now in
Australia, by the Police and Defence Forces. Due to their intelligence,
alertness and ability to learn things rapidly, they are an easy dog to
train as long as you treat them with kindness and firmness. If you are
cruel to a Belgian, he will forgive but he will never forget!
A Belgian Shepherd will bond very closely
to their master, and becomes very sensitive to your moods. You need to live
with a Belgian Shepherd before you can understand the deep loyalty and
affection that they have for their family. With your friends they will be
curious and a little aloof, with strangers they will be vigilant and alert
until they are given the chance to assess the newcomers. The Belgian is
contagious by nature. You cannot be glum for long if you are with your
Belgian. They are happy dogs, have curious and inquisitive minds and will
take any opportunity to show off their well-developed sense of humour.
APPEARANCE
When you first take your Belgian puppy
home, he will be a wonderful, warm and fuzzy bundle of energy. (Unless you
have chosen a Malinois, in which case you will have a wonderful, warm
bundle of mischievous energy!) It will not be long before your rotund puppy
gains co-ordination and starts to 'strut' about your yard like a regal
prince. At this time you will start to admire his aristocratic appearance
and elegance.
There is little else in the canine world
that matches the silhouette of a Belgian Shepherd when standing alert. He
is a square dog, which means his height is approximately the same in
measurement as his length from chest to rump. His movement is quick, light
and agile, appearing effortless. He has a deep chest, nice length of neck,
slightly arched and is moderately boned.
In the case of the Tervueren and
Groenendael, they have an abundant stand-offish coat (the Laekenois is also
stand-offish, but also ruffled), usually with feathering on the front and
hind legs and a tail that is heavily plumed. The male of all varieties will
develop mane framing his expressive face. A Belgian Shepherds head should
be fine and well chiselled. When looking side on the skull should run
parallel with his muzzle if a line were to be drawn along both planes, and
with skull and muzzle measuring equal length. The eyes should be dark
almond shaped and ears should be high set and triangular, held erect. Feet
should be small and catlike. In all varieties the male should stand 24 to
26 inches and the female 22 to 24 inches.
GROOMING
Although the Groenendael and Tervueren
both have abundant coats, grooming them is simplicity itself. Just one
thorough comb and/or brush each week will keep them free of mats and their
coats glistening. This may need to be done daily through their coat drop,
but once all of the dead coat is stripped, you can go back to a weekly
groom. Even if you decide to show your Belgian, do not be put off by their
coats, a good brush through the night before, or a bath a few days before a
show-and there you have it! If you have chosen a Malinois, well what can we
say? Just take a Chamois with you to the show and give him a good wipe over
before you enter the ring.
This article may be copied and
printed so long as the following information is also included
Written by Lynda Trotter of
Belgenbeau Kennels
Email: belgianshepherds@bigpond.com
Email:
novagations@bigpond.com
|
