Belgian Tervuren
Breed Summary
Belgian Tervuren is a well-balanced, medium-size dog, elegant in appearance, standing squarely on all fours, with a proud carriage of head and neck. They are strong, agile, well-muscled, and alert. They provide the impression of depth and solidity without bulkiness. Their body is extensive and sloping gradually to the base of the tail. The Belgian Tervuren is an intelligent, alert, and obedient dog. The male has strong musculature and the female should have a feminine look.
Country of Origin: Belgium
AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 106 of 196
AKC Classification: Herding Group
UKC Classification: Herding dog
Exercise Requirements: >40 minutes/day
Height: Female: 22-24 inches; Male: 24-26 inches
Weight: Female: 45-60 lbs; Male: 55-75 lbs.
Physical traits: Well-balanced, Medium-sized, Strong
Coat: Length: Medium
Characteristics: Varies
Colors: Black, Brindle, Fawn & Black, Mahogany & Black, Black & Cream
Overall Grooming Needs: Moderate
Personality traits/Temperament: Courageous, Alert, Intelligent
Energy Level: Very energetic
Tendency to Drool: Low
Tendency to Snore: Low
Tendency to Bark: Moderate
Tendency to Dig: Low
Social/Attention Needs: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Health
The Belgian Tervuren is a healthy breed. The life expectancy is 12 to 14 years. Some dogs can develop itchy skin conditions where baths with a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner is recommended. Flea control is also essential. An excellent breeder needs to screen breeding stock for several health conditions like hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint; elbow dysplasia; progressive retinal atrophy, which causes vision loss and blindness; and epilepsy. As with all breeds, a Tervuren’s ears should be checked regularly for the signs of infection and build-up of wax. Their teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent dental diseases.
Nutrition
The Belgian Tervuren needs high-quality dog food to perform their regular activities. This diet can be commercially manufactured or home-prepared with the supervision of a veterinarian. Add a high-quality dog multivitamin to complete the nutritional circle. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Don’t provide human foods that are not safe for them. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s condition.
Training
Belgian Tervurens need socialization and obedience training during their early age. This will expose the puppy to a wide variety of people, places, and situations and help him develop a well-manner behavior. Tervuren is an intelligent and independent dog that may lead them into trouble if they’re not trained to channel their boundless energy into acceptable activities. They are watchful, attentive, and usually in motion when not under command.
Exercise
This Belgian Tervuren breed is always in motion, seemingly never tiring. This breed needs a lot of exercises every day. Use paw balm daily to protect their feet. They love a lot of hard work and challenging play with his owner. This is not a breed for everyone, and a Terv owner should expect to spend a good amount of active quality time with his canine friend. Tervuren’s are likely to complete the dog agility trials, obedience, showmanship, flyball, Schutzhund, tracking, and herding events.
Interesting Fact
The First Ever AKC Herding Champion Was a Tervuren.
References
1. American Kennel Club. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.akc.org/
2. Dog Breeds | Hill’s Pet. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/breeds
3. List of Dog Breeds | Petfinder. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/
4. All Dog Breeds - Complete List of Dog Profiles. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/profiles
5. Dog Breeds | Types of Dogs | Purina. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breeds
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