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The Belgian Sheepdog
Belgian
Sheepdogs, also known
as Groenendaels or Les Chien de Berger Belges, developed from
northwest European stockdogs that were used to manage medium-sized
flocks (20-200 head) of sheep. Belgians are a "tending breed" of
herding dog. That is, they were used to keep the flock together while
grazing or moving along a trail. They do not have a strong instinct to
fetch livestock to a handler, but can be taught to do so. Belgians
also served to guard the flock from predators and poachers, therefore
are larger than most other herding breeds and are vigilant in the
presence of strangers.
The American Kennel Club considers the Belgian sheepdog a unique breed that is closely related to the Belgian Tervuren, Malinois, and Laekenois. Other registries, such as the Canadian Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club, consider these as four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd Dog that are distinguished from one another mainly by coat color and length. Herding photo courtesy of Mary Burlingame, Petscape Photography; A-frame photo courtesy of Stewart Event Images.
Belgian
Sheepdogs are an active, intelligent breed that require a close
partnership with their human companions in order to be happy and
physical fit. We strongly advise those considering purchasing or
adopting a Belgian Sheepdog to contact one of the national or regional
breed clubs for assistance in determining whether a Belgian is right
for you.
Photo courtesy of Ron Worley
"The first impression of the Belgian Sheepdog is that of a well balanced, square dog, elegant in appearance, with an exceedingly proud carriage of the head and neck. He is a strong agile, well muscled animal, alert and full of life."
From the Approved AKC Standard for the Belgian Sheepdog