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In his country of origin, the Belgian Tervuren is known as the Chien de Berger Belge. These dogs grew from a need for a general purpose herding and guard dog on the farm, providing security for the family and daily maintenance of the livestock. Their versatility is still appreciated today, and you can see them in obedience and agility competitions, and as working in law enforcement, search and rescue, and as therapy dogs.
Intelligent and energetic, Belgian Tervurens are happiest with a job to do. They are loyal and form strong bonds, so they must be part of the family, not isolated or left outdoors. They are watchful and alert with strong protective instincts. They are good with children if socialized with them, but they are high energy and may be overwhelming to little ones.
They are medium-sized dogs with a long double-coat in fawn, or russet mahogany with black. They may also be cream or gray, but these colors are not accepted for show dogs. Tervurens have triangular ears and deep chests, and their gait is lively and graceful.
Tervurens are smart and obedient, responding best to a confident, consistent leader. They need to learn basic manners, and may need to be trained not to try to herd their humans. They do need a job to do, and excel in obedience and agility.
Their thick, double-coat would benefit from regular combing and brushing, and you’ll want to trim out any mats that form. They are constant light shedders, but will blow their coats once or twice a year, so be prepared for extra brushing and house-cleaning during these times.
Tervurens are a hardy, healthy breed in general, but may be prone to epilepsy, skin allergies, and occasionally hip and elbow dysplasia.
Wellard, from “EastEnders”; the wolves in “The Company of Wolves” are mostly played by dyed Tervurens.
Ideal Owner Activity Level Very Active Schedule Full-time (but no overtime) Personal Style Playful, Doesn't mind frequent housecleaning, Confident Training Style Consistent, Firm, Confident Home Fenced yard or access to one Children Older kids Experience Definitely preferred Quick Facts Size Medium, Large Grooming Brush a few times a week Exercise Very high - this breed loves to run and needs vigorous daily workouts Training Learns well but bores easily, Needs daily practice Temperment Intelligent, Energetic Challenges Needs a strong, consistent, and assertive owner Height 22 to 26 inches Weight 45 to 80 pounds Life 10 to 14 years Home Alone Fine with lots of exercise first With Kids Fine with older kids With Strangers Wary Availability Rare and may have a waiting list
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on May 27, 2014.
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