Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael)

Origin and History

The Groenendael is the long, black-coated variety of the Belgian Shepherd. Developed for herding, it is a versatile working dog that, thanks to its intelligence and agility, now excels in police work, protection and dog sports.

Appearance and Coat

It has a large, elegant and athletic body. Its thick, straight, long double coat is entirely black; it forms a collar around the neck and requires regular grooming. It sheds moderately.

Personality and Temperament

The Groenendael is extremely intelligent, loyal and energetic. It bonds strongly with its family and has a natural protective instinct; it is wary of strangers. It is eager to work, agile and sensitive; it gets bored if its need for mental and physical stimulation is not met. It has a strong herding instinct.

Care, Exercise and Training

The thick coat needs regular brushing. It requires a very high level of exercise and mental stimulation. Thanks to its outstanding intelligence, it adapts excellently to training; its sensitive nature calls for gentle, reward-based training and early socialization.

Health

It is generally robust. Hip/elbow dysplasia, epilepsy and eye problems may occur. Regular check-ups are recommended. The Groenendael suits experienced, active owners looking for a very active, intelligent and work-eager dog who can provide intense exercise, training and a job to do.