BELGIAN SHEPHERD

TERVUREN

Breed Group: Herding

For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club

Average height: 56 - 66 cms (22 - 26 in)

Average Weight: 20 - 34 kgs (45 - 75 lbs)

Coat Length: Medium to Long

Life Span: 12 - 14 years

Colors: Fawn, Sable, with charcoaling, black mask

HISTORY

The Belgian Tervuren is one of the four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd, developed in Belgium in the late 19th century. Named after the village of Tervuren, where one of the breed’s most influential early breeders, M. F. Corbeel, lived. The Tervuren was bred as a versatile working dog. It was initially used for herding livestock, but like its close relatives, the Malinois and the Groenendael, the Tervuren quickly demonstrated its capabilities in a range of roles beyond the farm.

During the World Wars, the Tervuren, along with other Belgian Shepherds, served as messengers, ambulance dogs, and guards. Their intelligence, agility, and keen protective instincts made them invaluable in these roles. Over time, their abilities were recognized in civilian life as well, particularly in police work, search and rescue, and as loyal companions. The Tervuren's elegant appearance, characterized by its beautiful long coat and proud stance, also made it a favorite in the show ring.

Today, the Belgian Tervuren is celebrated not only for its working capabilities but also for its grace, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty. It remains a breed that excels in various tasks, from herding and protection to advanced obedience and agility. The Tervuren’s combination of beauty, brains, and brawn makes it a breed that commands both respect and admiration.

L.E.G.S.

Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.

Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.

Shedding

minimal <> considerable

Grooming

minimal <> likely to need professional grooming

Barking

relatively quiet <> very vocal

Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock

low<>high

Response to strangers

happy to greet everyone <> very wary

Affectionate with family

not at all<>very cuddly

Playful

serious<>very playful

Focus on handler (bond)

independent thinker<>very biddable

Excitable/Impulsive

very calm<>easily aroused

Motivated

laid back<>obsessive

Easy to care for

suitable for inexperienced<>challenging

Exercise needs

minimal<>hours daily

Off-lead exercise needs

happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom

Enrichment needs

basic<>needs challenges

WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR BELGIAN TERVUREN

Their loyalty and protective nature ensure a deep bond with their family, making them both a companion and a guardian.
The Tervuren’s intelligence and eagerness to please make training a rewarding experience, as they quickly learn and excel at tasks.
Their elegant appearance, highlighted by a flowing coat and graceful movement, makes them a joy to watch, whether in the backyard or the show ring.
The breed’s versatility means they can adapt to various activities, from herding and agility to advanced obedience, providing endless opportunities for engagement.
Tervurens are incredibly affectionate with their families, offering both companionship and unwavering devotion.

WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH

Their high energy levels require daily, vigorous exercise; without it, they can become restless or anxious.
Tervurens can be sensitive and may develop anxiety if left alone for long periods, making them less suitable for owners who are frequently away.
Their strong herding instincts might lead them to chase or nip at moving objects or even small children, requiring supervision and training.
Regular grooming is necessary to manage their shedding and keep their coat in good condition, which can be time-consuming.
They may be reserved with strangers, necessitating early and consistent socialization to prevent shyness or overprotectiveness.

YOUR BELGIAN TERVUREN PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS

A Belgian Tervuren puppy is like a little bundle of intelligence, curiosity, and energy, ready to explore the world around them. These puppies are quick learners, and they thrive on positive interaction and play. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop into well-rounded adults, as their natural wariness of strangers can become problematic if not managed. With proper guidance, a Tervuren puppy will grow into a confident, loving, and active companion, eager to take on new challenges alongside their family. It's essential to engage their minds with training and puzzle toys early on to prevent boredom and foster their natural talents.

YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:

Given their natural reserve with strangers, professional help may be needed to ensure they become well-adjusted and confident around new people and environments.
Managing their strong herding behaviors, such as chasing or nipping, might require specialized training, particularly in homes with children or other small pets.
While not difficult, the regular grooming needed to manage their coat might require the expertise of a professional groomer, especially during shedding season.
Tervurens can develop anxiety if left alone too often, so professional advice might be necessary to prevent or manage this behavior.
Professional obedience training can help harness their intelligence and focus, ensuring they develop into well-behaved adults.

YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY

To maintain a strong relationship with your Belgian Tervuren, it is crucial to keep them mentally and physically engaged. This breed thrives on having tasks to perform and needs an owner who can provide consistent training and plenty of activities. Think of your relationship as a partnership where mutual respect and active engagement are key. A Tervuren will excel when given clear expectations and opportunities to use their intelligence and agility. Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a structured routine will keep your Tervuren happy and loyal.

UPBRINGING

Raising a Belgian Tervuren requires dedication, consistency, and an understanding of their unique needs. Early socialization is vital to help them develop into confident and well-rounded adults. Introduce them to various people, environments, and other animals to prevent shyness or overprotectiveness. Training should begin early and be based on positive reinforcement. Tervurens respond well to rewards and enjoy the mental challenge of learning new commands. Daily exercise is essential, not just for their physical health but also to keep their minds engaged. Activities like obedience training, agility, and herding games can help satisfy their need for stimulation. It's also important to establish a grooming routine early on to manage their shedding and keep their coat in top condition.

LIFESTYLE

The ideal lifestyle for a Belgian Tervuren is one filled with activity, structure, and companionship. They excel in homes where they have plenty of space to run and play, such as a large yard or regular access to parks. Tervurens are happiest when they have a job to do, whether it’s participating in agility trials, obedience competitions, or simply being an active member of the family. They thrive in environments where they are involved in daily activities and can use their intelligence and energy in productive ways. This breed is best suited to active owners who can provide the exercise and mental stimulation they need to stay happy and healthy.

INTERESTS & HOBBIES

Belgian Tervurens are natural athletes who excel in activities that challenge both their bodies and minds. Agility training is a perfect outlet for their energy and intelligence, while herding trials allow them to engage in behaviors they were originally bred for. Obedience and rally sports are also well-suited to their focused nature, providing opportunities to showcase their skills in a competitive setting. In addition, Tervurens enjoy regular walks, hikes, or runs, and they thrive when given tasks that engage their problem-solving abilities, such as scent work or puzzle toys.

EDUCATION

Training goals for a Belgian Tervuren should focus on channeling their energy and intelligence into productive tasks. Start with basic obedience training to establish a strong foundation, and gradually introduce more complex tasks that challenge their minds. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key. Tervurens respond best to training methods that make learning enjoyable. Incorporating activities that mimic their herding and guarding instincts, such as advanced obedience tasks or protection training, will help keep them engaged and fulfilled.