An Energetic Worker - Belgian Tervuren

Also called a "Terv" by their owners, the Belgian Tervuren is named for the Belgian village of Tervuren. They were historically used as cattle and sheep herding canines. They have also been used as police canines and in narcotics detection, bomb detection, search and rescue and as therapy canines. While of the Belgian Sheepdogs are still used more as working canines, the Belgian Tervuren and Belgian Groenendael are both seen more as companion canines today.

One of Belgian Sheepdogs, the Belgian Tervuren is often mistaken for a French Shepherd because they closely resemble each other in size, coat and color. It is pronounced Ter-VER-en. The Belgian Tervuren is recognized as its own breed by the AKC, but plenty of countries think about all Belgian Sheepdogs to be breed although there's noticeable differences in everything from coat to size to color.

Their coat color is recognized by the AKC in the colors of a mahogany or fawn base with black tips, mask and ears. A little amount of white on nose, chest and chin is permissible. The long, straight, thick and harsh outer coat and soft dense undercoat needs every day grooming to prevent matting and knots. They shed all year long, but it is usually light shedding.

They are a medium to medium huge breed. They weigh between 45-75 pounds and are anywhere from 22" to 27" in height. They are an energetic, powerful breed that enjoys exercise and play. Because of their high energy and size, they are not ideal apartment canines but are ideal for families with huge yards or those who have access to parks or fields where they can run.

As a guard dog or relatives dog, the Belgian Tervuren is protective, loyal and highly smart. They are energetic canines that need plenty of exercise and activity whether they are working on the farm or kept chiefly as a companion dog. They need to be socialized and trained from an early age. The earlier they are introduced to children, canines and other pets, the better they will do. They might be dominant towards other canines. It is important to research a Belgian Tervuren's history before making a purchase to be definite that there is no aggression present in their lineage. Give your Belgian Tervuren plenty to do and they are going to be happy. A bored Belgian Tervuren can be a bit destructive as they will discover a way to fill their time.