Belgian Tervuren: Your Complete Guide

The Belgian Tervuren is a classy-looking character in the dog world that is far more than a handsome face and a good head of hair. The canines have marathon running levels of energy and are one of the most intelligent dog breeds across the globe. The Tervuren is a uniquely charismatic breed that can make owners envious of all their inherent gifts.

They are a hard dog to own for those unprepared, however, and are not the best for a first-choice pet. They are brilliant across the board but have an endless battery, a constant need to be doing something, and a bad propensity for separation anxiety.

Over the next few minutes, we will give a comprehensive guide that goes over everything concerning the Belgian Tervuren.

Quick Look at the Belgian Tervuren

Below is a quick glance at this special breed in terms of its physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs.

What Is the History of Belgian Tervurens?

The Belgian Tervuren is not actually a breed in some parts of the globe but a certain variety of Belgian shepherd. Only in North America does the dazzling dog have the distinction of being recognized by a kennel club. Across the pond, they share a spot with the popular Malinois, scruffy Laeknois, and the onyx-coated Groenendael.

The differing breeds had a common ancestor with a long history of symbiotic collaboration with the inhabitants of Belgium. In fact, the parent pooches predate Belgium as a country. They worked as efficient, energy-filled herding dogs, though they almost became extinct due to crossbreeding.

Other countries took more care to continue breeding the several positive traits of the intelligent canines, while in Belgium, the shepherd was overlooked for more favorable pups of the time. It was enough of an issue that a team was produced in 1891 to help Belgian shepherds and encourage distinctions for more favorable breeding practices.

After two world wars, a dwindling population from crossbreeding, and an incredible amount of work by Professor Adolphe Reul, the breed of Belgian shepherd was officially accepted. It had four different variations, including the Tervuren. These distinctions would make breed standards more easy to follow, helping keep the species out of the red.

What Do Belgian Tervurens Look Like?

The Tervuren that follows breed standards will have a coat that is mostly fawn with splashes of black across the face and feet. They can also have fusions of reddish-brown coloring, though they are rarely one uniform brown or red. Further variations can include silver and cream, with most dogs having black along the body and nose.

What Size Is a Belgian Tervuren?

They are mid-sized dogs that can easily grow into the larger classification, particularly if they are males. Their massive coat gives them a few extra inches of depth to their frame, though they are still pretty hefty pooches. The breed sits between twenty-two to twenty-six inches, with a weight that ranges between forty-five to seventy-five pounds.

What Is a Belgian Tervuren’s Coat Type and Length?

The breed has become distinguished for its breathtaking double coat that is straight and medium in length. The top layer pushes outward into a well-maintained, luxurious exterior, hiding a deep, insulated inner coat. The fur around the neck grows abundantly and shortens towards the head, creating a well-framed face.

What Is a Belgian Tervuren’s Temperament?

The Belgian Tervuren has become well-known for their winning personality, easily able to snatch away the hearts of anyone in close proximity. Tervuren’s are affable, notably bright, and uniquely brave. They are protective canines who will not hesitate to show off their vigilance and can be exceptionally affectionate towards family and friends.

They will require attention from owners and can grow restless if left alone for too long. The breed does not do well alone, and several hours unattended may result in broken possessions or firmly inspected trash cans strewn across kitchens.

Are Belgian Tervurens Good With Kids?

The breed can be trained to get along with younger children, though they are not particularly keen on toddlers. The canines are energetic, potentially leading to injuries, and they do not like being grabbed roughly. If a child is too young to understand how to handle a dog, it can lead to tension from the dog, which is more adaptable to older humans.

If they grow up with a child, the two will typically bond quite well. The breed can undoubtedly live in a house with kids, but they prefer the company of older adolescents and adults in general. For parents looking for a four-legged friend to introduce to their kids, the Tervuren should be introduced as a puppy, or another breed may be preferable.

Are Belgian Tervurens Good With Other Animals?

Bring them up with another cat or dog, and you will have adorable phone backgrounds for the rest of your life. The Tervuren needs to understand who is part of their family, and they will treat them far better than most. The herding background is fantastic for their protective instinct and amiable personality, but it can also cause issues with certain animal personalities.

The dog was made to wrangle unwieldy livestock, so if it sees a tabby cat doing its erratic nightly sprint through the house – it will likely try to rein it in. Training and introductions to other animals can minimize this built-in characteristic quite a bit, but very small animals may need to be kept away to avoid potential injury.

Are Belgian Tervurens Aggressive?

If they are not adequately trained and left to run wild, they can get overzealous, as their energy and lack of discipline can promote bad habits. If owners are not prepared to train their dogs very diligently, they should not get a Tervuren in the first place. The fluff hides a good bit of muscle, and their protective nature can make them seem aggressive or threatening.

This is a misunderstanding of the canines, which are delightful animals with lovely temperaments. They are deeply devoted to their loved ones and are exceedingly courageous, so an untrained Tervuren who perceives someone as a threat may growl or snarl. That said, owners should not be concerned about them lashing out at loved ones or welcomed visitors.

Early training and interaction with animals and acquaintances is vital for all dogs, especially those as dense and dauntless as a Tervuren.

Do Belgian Tervurens Bark?

Their watchful nature and hesitance toward those outside their “territory” can lead to unexpected bouts of barking, though they are nothing close to the worst. They make great watchdogs, and their keen senses help them pick up just about everything nearby, which can make them seem overly paranoid.

Tervuren owners will get used to training, and it will quickly become a very positive experience with the dog. Given some positive reinforcement and patience, the barking can easily be corrected. They will always bark when they feel threatened or concerned, though it doesn’t have to be every other hour.

Are Belgian Tervurens Affectionate?

They can take time to get acquainted with new people, but they love every second spent with their owner. The breed loves being close to their owner and will want to spend as much time as possible next to them. There are better choices than the Tervuren for folks looking for a removed dog that will coexist like a cordial roommate.

For those looking for a constant cuddly companion who will hunker down after a long day or jog next to you on your morning run, there are few better than the Belgian dog.

Are Belgian Tervurens Intelligent?

They are widely considered one of the most intelligent types of dog out there. They are wildly adaptable to most tasks and are absurdly quick to catch on. They have served in several positions: messengers in wars, herding livestock, and even as police dogs. They are always happy to help and eager to impress, proving exceedingly proficient at both.

Are Belgian Tervurens Energetic?

They must be exercised regularly, and owners should prepare for a dog that needs daily physical activity. Because of their keen mind, it can help to give them challenges or things that require some brain power to keep them working. The Tervuren adores time outside and gets a kick from working its swift body and adept mind.

Failure to get exercise may result in a dog that is destructive, depressed, or both. They have a natural urge to work and do not do well when cooped up inside for days. They also have an enormous amount of stamina, so owners should offer them a place to expend it, such as dog parks or fenced-in backyards.

Are Belgian Tervurens Easy to Train?

The Belgian pooch is adaptable, multifaceted, and exceedingly sharp. They love learning and intellectual obstacles, especially when positively encouraged. They can be endearingly mischievous and willful, but it is outmatched quickly by their love for attention and their need to perform.

They excel in agility training and are a sight to behold once they hit a stride. They move well, adapt quickly, and maneuver around objects like an athletic, overgrown fox.

Are Belgian Tervurens Good Watchdogs?

They absolutely can make excellent watchdogs and worthwhile protectors. The breed has been used by Belgian police, and Tervurens have no shortage of spine when it comes to their courage. They are brave, vigilant, and devoted to keeping their people protected. They are also sharp enough to be trained to recognize the difference between a thief and a mailman.

Are Belgian Tervurens Good Service Dogs?

While it may seem like a wealthy Tervuren handed us a blank check to write this article, they really are fantastically capable. As with their ability to be watchdogs, the breed makes exceptional search dogs that are obedient, hugely loyal, and emotionally intuitive. They can focus on a task physically, emotionally, or intellectually and accomplish it.

Belgian Tervurens can provide physical support, detect impending afflictions, and are deeply connected and attentive to the needs of their handlers or owners. Whether it’s service positions or emotional support, they are a fantastic choice that folks would be thankful to have.

How to Care for a Belgian Tervuren?

The breed is higher-maintenance than most dogs and not suitable for first-timers, but they aren’t going to take up every waking moment. The average week will consist of daily exercise, a portioned diet, moderate brushing, and hygienic maintenance.

For prospective owners, try to do grooming towards the end of the day after they have gotten their energy out. They won’t immediately dirty their coat; they will be easier to work with, and any tics, dirt, or cuts can be found early.

Do You Need to Groom a Belgian Tervuren?

The Belgian Tervuren will need a thorough brushing once or twice a week with brief maintenance as needed. They can get mats in the outer layer, which will need to be taken care of, though they aren’t going to require excessive daily attention unless they are very active. Bath frequency really depends on the activity and environment the Tervuren is engaged in.

They will need the occasional appointment with a nail clipper, typically once or twice a month. Dog ears are wonderful and exciting for everyone, but their visual splendor can attract all sorts of dust and debris. To avoid this, try checking around their ears after their time outside has ended. Their teeth should maintained a few times a week to prevent oral issues later.

Do Belgian Tervurens Shed?

For most of the year, shedding will not be unbearable with proper brushing and a fair bit of luck. The problems come when shedding season visits twice a year, resulting in your dog creating ample excess throughout the house. Brushing at this time should become daily until the difficult month has passed.

If people can survive the four to eight weeks of the year when shedding gets excessive, the rest of the time will be manageable. They are unfortunately not hypoallergenic, though outside of those with allergy concerns, they aren’t terrible when it comes to coat-covered carpets.

What Health Problems Do Belgian Tervurens Have?

The Belgian Tervuren can have specific health concerns that are not uncommon in the breed. However, they are not considered disease-prone and will typically live long, loving lives with proper attention and diligent care.

The most common health problems of a Belgian Tervuren are:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Cataracts
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Epilepsy
• Von Willebrand disease

Regular vet checkups and an informed knowledge of a dog’s medical history can help lessen the likelihood of these diseases advancing. Similarly, taking care of a dog’s exercise needs, diet, and the animal’s genetic background will play a part.

How Long Do Belgian Tervurens Live?

The Tervuren is a breed that is healthy and energetic, which will carry them to the age of twelve to fourteen.

What Should a Belgian Tervuren Eat?

They should be given worthwhile dog food specifically for medium-to-large breeds with an active lifestyle. For puppies, stick to what the breeder feeds them unless they show signs that it doesn’t agree with them, and adapt as they mature. As an adult, the recommended diet is about two to three cups of food portioned out across the day.

Diet varies on a one-to-one level, and medical complications, size, and daily exercise can vastly change what a dog will need from its food.

Is a Belgian Tervuren the Right Dog for Me?

The Belgian Tervuren is a breathtaking breed with an incredible mind that has been exceptionally useful to humans since the inception of our symbiotic relationship. They are a dog with a tremendous amount of potential, though many people will not have the time, patience, or experience to keep up with them.

If people want a running buddy, can handle fur, and tend to diligently dote on their dogs, the Tervuren will make an outstanding companion. If they are looking for a dog that can be useful, it’s hard to find ways that the Tervuren can’t assist folks. They are a high-maintenance breed, however, who deserve a hard-working owner that can match their output.