Belgian Tervuren

Overview

Overview of Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervurens, affectionately known as 'Tervs' combine the beauty and grace of a show dog, the attentiveness of a companion dog, and the work ethic of a herding dog. Tervs are one of four native herding breeds from Belgium which are: the Belgian Tervuren (fawn - mahogany, longhaired, with a blackened mask), the Belgian Sheepdog (longhaired, black), the Malinois (fawn - mahogany, shorthaired, with a blackened mask), and the Laekenois (fawn - mahogany, wirehaired). Originally bred to be an all-around herder and guard dog, Tervs are named after the town of Tervuren, home to master breeder M.F. Corbeel. Surprisingly, these medium to large (45-75 lbs) pooches don't have much of a doggy odor, only requiring a bath every few months, and a weekly brushing twice a week to stay fresh. Today's Belgian Tervuren Shepherds are employed as police and military K-9s, search and rescue workers, service dogs, actors (like in the movie The Company of Wolves, where Tervs play the wolves), and champions in the show ring, obedience, herding trials, and disc sports like frisbee.

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Belgian Tervuren

Epilepsy:

Belgian Sheepdogs (Groenendaels) and Belgian Tervurens may be at a higher risk for recurring seizures. Epilepsy may afflict up to 17% of Groenendaels and Tervurens. No one really understands why this condition is more prevalent in these dogs but there is a high likelihood that there are genetic factors involved.

Recommendations for Epilepsy in Belgian Tervuren Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Belgian Tervuren

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

The Belgian Tervuren is a breed that may be prone to developing degenerative disorders of the eye, which may lead to blindness if left untreated.

Recommendations for Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Belgian Tervuren Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Belgian Tervuren

Cancer:

Stomach cancer is a cancer that occurs more commonly in the Groenendaels and the Belgian Tervurens. Its symptoms include lethargy, appetite loss, vomiting, and weight loss.

Recommendations for Cancer in Belgian Tervuren Dogs:

Personality

Renowned for their work ethic and versatility, Belgian Tervurens excel in many roles, as long as they get to work hard! Tervs are good problem solvers that are extremely versatile when given a job in the field. At home, they’re happy to be wherever you are! Don’t be surprised if your Terv follows you into the bathroom. Their high intelligence means that this is a thinking breed that can definitely outsmart their humans. Belgian Tervuren puppies require a high activity level and if not socialized early, they may become reactive and possessive. A Terv would be happiest with an experienced dog owner who will give them a job to do and will not fall prey to their head games! A no-nonsense approach is key to a calm, well-balanced Belgian Tervuren. Out of the four Belgian Shepherds, Tervs are considered to be the most elegant and beautiful! Are you on the lookout for an eye-catching, intelligent, and athletic pooch whose idea of heaven is hard work and challenging play? Then a Belgian Tervuren might be the dog for you!