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Belgian Sheepdog

Also known as: Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael variety)

Breed origin: Belgium
Original purpose: Versatile sheep dog.

AKC recognized: 1912
AKC group: Herding

Size: Height: males 24 to 26 inches; females 22 to 24 inches
© Rks (Rolf Klebsattel) | Dreamstime.com
Color: Black, sometimes with small amounts of white.

Life span: 10 to 14 years.

General characteristics/temperament: Belgian Sheepdogs are strong, agile, well muscled, alert, courageous, intelligent, inquisitive, and full of life. As companions, they are gentle, affectionate, devoted, very possessive, and naturally protective of their masters and their property without being overly aggressive. They are watchful and attentive, and are observant and vigilant with strangers, but not apprehensive. They possess a strong desire to work and are most content when given a job to do. This breed is closely related to three other breeds: the Belgian Laekenois, the Belgian Malinois, and the Belgian Tervuren. In fact, the only difference between these four breeds is their coat type, the Sheepdog having the a mostly black coat.

© Rks (Rolf Klebsattel) | Dreamstime.com
Protective? Yes

© Rks (Rolf Klebsattel) | Dreamstime.com
Intelligent? Yes

Energy/Activity Level: High

Good jogging partner? Yes

Suitable canine sports/activities: conformation, obedience, Schutzhund, herding, sledding, tracking, search and rescue, therapy, guiding and assistance, police work

Known health problems: Cataracts, epilepsy, thyroid problems, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, pannus.


Additional photos of Belgian Sheepdog


Recommended books for further reading:


Belgian Sheepdog (A Comprehensive Owner's Guide)
By Dr. Robert Pollet and Muriel P. Lee
Published in 2007
158 pages

Belgian Sheepdogs
By Marge Turnquist
Published in 2003
144 pages

Belgian Sheepdogs
By Frank E. Dykema
Published in 1990
192 pages

The Complete Belgian Shepherd Dog
By Deborah Fleming
Published in 2003
176 pages


Show more books


Other websites for additional information:

American Kennel Club breed page
Belgian Sheepdog Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
Belgian Sheepdog Club of America Rescue



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Page Last Updated: February 1, 2018

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