Belgian Tervuren

Origin and History

The Tervuren is the long, colored-coat variety of the Belgian Shepherd. Developed for herding, it is a versatile working dog that today stands out in police work, protection and dog sports thanks to its intelligence and agility.

Appearance and Coat

It has a large, elegant and athletic body. Its dense, straight, long double coat comes in fawn to mahogany shades with black tipping; it forms a collar around the neck and requires regular grooming. It sheds moderately.

Temperament and Personality

The Tervuren 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; if its need for mental and physical stimulation is not met, it gets bored. It has a strong herding instinct.

Grooming, Exercise and Training

Its dense coat requires regular brushing. It needs very high exercise and mental stimulation. Thanks to its outstanding intelligence, it adapts perfectly 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 checkups are recommended. The Tervuren suits experienced, active owners looking for a very active, smart and work-eager dog who can provide intensive exercise, training and tasks.