Belgian Tervuren Breed Description

An Owner's Belgian Tervuren Description
This bred-for-herding dog loves to display his natural herding skills, but has other talents as well. Through the years the breed has become popular as a police dog, notably for sniffing for bombs and drugs. They are also used extensively in search and rescue work - and that's why I bought Radar. Radar has proven his worth many times over, in search and rescue settings in various locations and in patrolling the Arizona/Mexico border.

His loyalty and well-behaved manner has made this hardworking dog a good companion too. And believe me, there've been many nights alone out in the wild when I needed a good companion.

Since Radar is a member of the Canine Unit of the police force, he gets regular exercise and mental challenges. He likes to run, and thoroughly enjoys the outdoors. This is something to consider if you are thinking of choosing this breed: an apartment might do IF your dog gets regular and rigorous daily exercise.

Radar loves to please, but can be choosey on when to do so. My guess is it's probably a control thing or perhaps mood changes, because there is that inbred desire to herd.

Many breeders believe that Tervurens are only suitable for experienced dog owners and handlers. Those that this dog has helped cope with a physical or mental disability as a service animal would likely disagree. They have found this herder of livestock adapts very well to indoor home life while caring for a less-experienced dog owner's special needs. In that role, they do still have their need for plenty of exercise, so placement where they can do so is critical to a pairing's success.

If not properly entertained and worked, Radar will resort to making up games of his own design and these can often be destructive in nature. I have learned all too well what he can do when left alone for too long. Now I put my boots up on the top shelf of the closet before I go out!

 

 

Introduction

Near extinction by the end of World War II, these dogs have surged in popularity in the last decade especially as a drug detection dog. As with all the Belgian Shepherd dogs, they make great watchdogs and work well in security and assistance. They also make great companion dogs. These dogs thrive when they are controlled by a firm and understanding hand. They have a long, double pigmented coat in which the tip of each light colored hair is blackened. They need frequent grooming. These dogs weigh 61 to 63 lbs. and stand 22 to 26" at the shoulders.

Colors

The colors of the Belgian Tervuren vary slightly with the norm being a rich shade of red (often described as mahogany) with black highlights and a black mask. Occasionally, you will see a small spot of white on the chest or the tip of the toes.

Living Area

The Belgian Tervuren is comfortable and will adapt to any kind of temperature as long as he has protection from the extreme cold and extreme heat. Depending on where you live, some of these extremes can be dangerous without protection. They are happiest when indoors with the family and loving bonding with them.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Belgian Tervuren breeders with puppies for sale.