Belgian Sheepdog Breed Information

Originating in Belgium, the Belgian Sheepdog is a medium to large size canine that is distinguished by its long and short rough haired coat.  It is primarily a herding dog that is divided into four sub categories namely the Malinois, Laekenois, Tervuren and Groenendael. Breeders state that in most cases these canines enjoy a life span from 10-14 years and have litters than range from 6 to 10 pups. Belgian Sheepdog puppies for sale will need to be located keeping their sub category in mind since not all breeders breed all the four categories discussed above.  The Belgian Sheepdog was officially recognized in 1901, but breeders believe that the research on this breed started as early as the 1800. The foundation stock for these canines came from the four region after which the sub categories of this breed have been named. In 1891, the official Belgian Sheepdog was created and the standards for this breed were laid down the following year.  This dog resembles the German shepherd in man ways.  All the sub categories are similar in their musculos keletal set up while their difference emerge only in the outer physical appearance. Erect ears, a black nose and a square cut muzzle are some of the physical features that they all share. Those looking for puppies for sale will find that as pups the four sub classifications are difficult to tell apart. The Belgian Sheepdog is a very intelligent canine and is also known for its high alertness and sharpness.  Breeders recommend these dogs to those looking for dependable guard dogs that are also affectionate and loyal and easy to manage. If you are looking to get a strong, loyal, affectionate pet to use as your watch or service dog, you should consider Belgian Sheepdog. These dogs are strong, highly protective of their people, loyal and smart.  They need a skilled and knowledgeable owner to make the most out of their natural talents. The name of this dog is very true, as this breed indeed comes from Belgium. In many countries of the world Belgian Sheepdog puppies for sale are called Belgian Groenendael. The name came from a small village in Belgium. However, in USA, the breed is registered with AKC as Belgian Sheepdog. There are four similar sheepdog breeds. Three of them are registered with AKC and share one common standard. The registration took place in 1959. In Belgium, they are used for a variety of purposes. They make great service dogs, police dogs, herding and guarding dogs. They are a rare breed in the USA, although these dogs are quite widespread and popular in Belgium. That is why finding reputable breeders might be a problem. Check out AKC or Rare Dog Breed Association for reputable breeder contacts.  Even though these dogs are smart and obedient, as puppies they need timely and early socialization with people and other animals. These herding and watch dogs have extremely strong inborn guarding instincts. They can be very reserve or even aggressive with strangers. This breed needs strong human leadership, otherwise, it may start bossing and herding its family of people. This is a squarely built and muscular dog. The head is small, but comes in proportion to the rest of the body. The ears are triangle and pointed up. The lips are black and tight. The coat of these dogs has two layers and is of medium length. It protects the dogs well from cold and wet weather, so the dogs are fitting well for living outdoors. Belgian Sheepdogs mostly come in solid black color, but small patches of white on chest, toes and chin are acceptable. There height may range between 22 to 26 inches and the weight ranges between 60 to 75 pounds. Bitches of this breed are slightly smaller, than dogs.