The Belgian Shepherd of Tervueren is a Group 1 dog: shepherd and drover dogs. Dogs in this group are very trainable and docile and can easily be used as working dogs. They are protective and vigilant in their territory, and therefore tend to bark quickly to warn or repel possible visitors or intruders. They are brave, have powerful jaws and come in different shapes and colors.

The large Belgian Shepherd with its 4 varieties would descend from shepherd dogs from Central Europe or from crosses of local breeds of Mastins or Deerhounds from England in the 13th century. At the end of the 19th century there were not yet specific breeds of Belgian Shepherds, even if there were already a whole bunch of Belgian dogs who knew how to lead a flock. In 1891, in order to bring more heterogeneity (and in particular on coat models), the 'Belgian Shepherd Dog Club' was created in collaboration with Professor A. Reul, from the Cureghem Veterinary School. The first breed standards appeared a year later, with coat varieties, in 1892. From that moment, selective breeding could begin (with unfortunately a little inbreeding). In 1910, the characteristics of the Belgian Shepherd as we know them today were stabilized.

The Tervueren Belgian Shepherd is a large breed dog with a height at the withers of 58 cm to 62 cm. A deviation of 2cm below or 4cm above is tolerated. The dogs are harmoniously proportioned and elegantly muscular. Their body is powerful and agile with a pronounced neck and slightly curved neckline. The legs, especially the hind legs, are strong and muscular. The tail is strong at the base, of medium size, is quite regular and hangs simply when the dog is calm. The skull of the Tervueren Shepherd is well formed, with a pointed muzzle. Their lips are tense and surrounded by dry, smooth cheeks. The coat is long, with a fairly dense undercoat. The Tervueren Shepherd has a tan, mixed brown-gray coat, and all shades of brown to gray, with a black muzzle.

The Belgian Shepherd lives up to 12 years on average. Genetically speaking, there are few pathologies referenced. However, like all large breeds, they are at risk of hip dysplasia, even if it is rarer than in other breeds. Furthermore, there is a risk of hereditary epilepsy, to be detected by DNA test in parents.These dogs adapt to many climates and environments, since they originate from Belgium with a very changeable climate. The coat requires little maintenance, except for a little brushing during the shedding period. Be careful not to brush too much as you risk damaging the undercoat. Even if the dog has no health problems, remember to always have your dog checked annually by the veterinarian.

The Tervueren Shepherd, like all Belgian Shepherds, is a very intelligent and very sensitive dog. They can sometimes be nervous or impulsive. Particularly because they are very alert and react strongly to stimuli of all kinds. They are very energetic and have a strong personality. Like all shepherds, they are entirely devoted to their master(s) and vigilant towards visitors and strangers. Very affectionate, they are also very attached to their family. They are active and dynamic and need to let off steam every day with physical activities. They are therefore not made to stay locked up all day, and certainly not in a kennel. However, indoors they are often calm, as long as they have enough outdoor daily activities. Even if they are not hunting dogs, they still need to be stimulated by research and the use of their scent in the wild. Education point of view; These are dogs that have a huge need for structure, stability, with a gentle but firm approach in a harmonious climate. This will allow them to be happy and have self-confidence. Good socialization from a young age is essential because they are prone to shyness. This is why these dogs are unsuitable for harsh and/or severe training, being sensitive even to voice intonation and non-verbal language, at the risk of having a fearful and destabilized dog. Patience and understanding will be the key words, as with all dogs, the essentials of a balanced dog and good company. For any behavioral problem or character deviating from this description, consider consulting a behaviorist.