Belgian Shepherd Tervuren Info

Personality

The Belgian Tervuren dog has a keen eye and a clever mind. These dogs are born to herd and protect. Unlike their more serious Belgian Shepherd relatives, Tervurens have a unique talent for relaxing and savoring the little joys of life after a busy day. At first, they may seem distant with newcomers, but with patience and trust, they become devoted friends. They are loving and watchful with their families, creating strong connections, particularly with children who treat them kindly.

History

The Tervuren dog is one of the four types of Belgian Shepherds and is most similar to the black Groenendael. At first, all these dogs were seen as one breed, differing only in their coat colors. But in the early 1900s, they were divided into separate breeds based on their fur types. The Tervuren, recognized for its red, fawn, or gray fur with black highlights, became its own breed. Traditionally, these dogs were used for herding and protecting animals. The Tervuren is smart and self-reliant, making it a great companion.

Ideal Owner

The perfect owner for a Tervuren is someone who is energetic, smart, and calm. They truly value what a dog needs both mentally and physically and are dedicated to creating an engaging atmosphere. An ideal owner has experience with lively, clever breeds and knows how crucial it is to socialize the Belgian Shepherd Tervuren early and to provide steady guidance.

Exercise Needs

The Tervuren breed is an energetic and dedicated worker known for its excellent herding skills. These dogs need both physical activity and mental challenges to stay happy, and they enjoy playing games with people. Because of their dense fur, they don’t handle heat well, so it's best to walk them in the early morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.

Space Requirements

The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren breed is quite sensitive and might struggle with the noise and activity of city life, making them more comfortable in suburban or countryside settings. Having a large, safe yard is important for them to release their energy. Varying your walking paths can also help keep them engaged and alert.

Training

Tervurens are intelligent and also quite sensitive. They seek out both mental and physical tasks and do really well in things like agility and obedience training. They respond best to positive rewards, such as toys, treats, and clicker training.

Grooming

The Tervuren has a thick, long fur that needs to be groomed often. Underneath their beautiful top layer, there is a thick undercoat that sheds a lot, especially for females twice a year and usually once a year for males. To avoid tangles and maintain a healthy coat, it’s important to brush them regularly.

Suitability for Family Life

The Belgian Shepherd Tervuren is a gentle breed that might not do well in lively homes. These loyal dogs thrive with calm owners, especially those without young kids or with older children.

Did You know?

People frequently confuse Tervurens with German Shepherds. Although they have a similar shape, Tervurens look more elegant and have a longer, softer coat.