Vet Info-H • Sep–Dec 2023 • Vol 11 • No. 4 7 Breed Profile Belgian Sheepdog The Belgian Sheepdog or Belgian Shepherd dog breed was first recognized in 1891. Originally bred to herd sheep, the Belgian Sheepdog is a robust, healthy breed habituated to the open-air life and built to resist the cold Belgian climate. Health and Care While Belgian Sheepdogs have a relatively low maintenance coat, they still need regular grooming. Brushing every couple of days when shedding or once a week when not shedding makes them appear good and feel comfortable. Belgian Sheepdogs are prone to health conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, von Willebrand’s disease, and thrombopathia. Sources: DogTime. Belgian Sheepdog. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/belgiansheepdog#:~:text=Belgian%20Sheepdogs%20are%20alert%2C%20 devoted,quickly%20become%20a%20destructive%20dog. Accessed July 16, 2023. American Kennel CLub. Belgian Sheepdog. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/ belgian-sheepdog/. Accessed July 16, 2023. Hill’s Pet Nutrition Inc. Belgian Sheepdog Dog Breed Information and Personality Traits. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/belgiansheepdog. Accessed July 16, 2023. Purina. Belgian Shepherd Dog Malinois. https://www.purina.co.uk/find-apet/dog-breeds/belgian-shepherd-malinois. Accessed July 16, 2023. Physical Characteristics The Belgian Sheepdog is a unique dog breed that has 4 varieties: (1) Malinois (short-coated; red, fawn, or gray); (2) Tervueren (long-haired; fawn, red, or gray); (3) Groenendael (long-haired; black); (4) Laekenois (rarer, rough-coated, and reddish fawn). Basically, they differ in terms of coat and color. The Belgian Sheepdog usually lives for 12 years; however, with the right nutrition, love, care, and attention, it can live up to 15 years. The Belgian Sheepdogs have a medium-sized, well-proportioned, square-shaped body, with a double, mediumsized coat. Female Belgian Sheepdogs weigh about 25 kg and grow up to 56 cm tall, whereas male Belgian Sheepdogs weigh 35 kg and grow up to 66 cm tall. They are energetic, highly sensitive, alert, protective, and affectionate. They need plenty of exercise and regular mental stimulation to keep them active, happy, and alert. They also have strong herding and protection instincts. Belgian Sheepdogs love water and can be a swim companion. Belgian Sheepdogs can be a combination of working dogs and family dogs. They can easily get along with other pets, kids, and family members. They must live with their family rather than being left alone in the house for long periods of time.
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