Dog Breeds from Belgium
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Belgian dog breeds have diverse histories, including herding sheep, law enforcement, military service, and keeping disease-carrying rodents free. Many native breeds were working dogs, guarding flocks and homesteads, while some small-sized dogs served as watchdogs, rat killers, and companions. Belgium claims several dog breeds as its own.
Belgium, officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a small Western European country with a population of 10.458.000 million. It is the world’s main diamond center and second largest petrochemical center, with over 90% of raw diamonds negotiated and distributed in Antwerp. Belgium has several breeds, including the Belgium Shepherd, a medium-to-large herding dog with four different varieties.
These varieties, including, Laekenois, Tervuren, and Malinois, have a similar musculoskeletal structure to the German Shepherd and are great herding dogs. The Bouvier des Flandres, or Cow Herder of Flandres, was used for farm work, cart pulling, and drug transport during World War II. Nowadays, it is mostly used as a guard, police dog, or companion.
Belgian Laekenois
The Belgian Laekenois is one of four related Belgian shepherd dog breeds used for herding, guarding livestock, and protecting people and property. Named after the town of Laeken in the Brussels region, it has a distinctive wiry coat and is known for its watchfulness, protective nature, and affectionate nature. In the United States, it is part of the American Kennel Club Herding Group. The breed’s main differences are coat type and color.
Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois, a sheep herder and protector of family and farm, is a recognizable breed in the United States due to their use as military dogs and police K-9s. Developed in the Malines region, they have a short coat and a square body outline, with a lighter build and a slightly shorter coat than the German Shepherd. Some argue that the Malinois are more intense in personality and drive. They are part of the AKC Herding Group in the U.S.
Belgian Sheepdog
The Belgian Sheepdog is a highly trainable herder with versatility and intelligence, known for its hard work and affection for human companionship. Originating in the US in the late 1800s, they are well-behaved with young children and can suffer from progressive retinal atrophy. They are intelligent, easy to train, and form strong bonds with family members. They are also alert and protective, making them excellent watchdogs.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon, a smaller Belgian dog, is known for its affectionate nature and love for family. Despite their small size, breeding is challenging, and occasionally C-sections are needed to reduce litter difficulties and mortality rates. They are playful, tolerant of children, open to strangers, and adaptable to various living environments, but their barking may make them unsuitable for apartment buildings.
Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres, a French breed from Belgium’s Flanders region, is known for its rough coat and long mustache. Originating in the Middle Ages for cattle driving, they have since become family pets. They are intelligent, protective, and have learned complex tasks. The breed gained popularity in the 1980s due to a White House resident during the Reagan presidency. They are obedient but require firm training and positive reinforcement to be properly socialized.
Schipperke
The Schipperke, a high-energy dog, originated in Belgium’s Flemish provinces and has a history dating back to medieval times. They were common in Belgian dockyards, killing disease-carrying rats and acting as guard dogs. The breed’s name translates to “little captain” in English. Today, the Schipperke is a charismatic and feisty watchdog, sounding the alarm when strangers approach and dispatching rats in and around homes. They require a lot of exercise to avoid boredom and destructive behavior. Training can help with their activity, but it’s essential to know their physical size and their activity levels.
Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren, a Belgian shepherd breed, is closely related to its cousin, the Belgian Sheepdog. Both breeds have a long, thick, double coat, but the Tervuren’s coat is tan, ranging from rich fawn to russet mahogany with a black overlay and black mask. Named after the village of Tervuren, the Tervuren requires ample exercise to burn energy and is affectionate with their human family. They are part of the AKC Herding Group.
Final Thoughts
Belgium has a rich history of breeding dogs that excel in various roles, including farm work, police work, and military service. These intelligent, versatile, and loyal dogs are popular for roles like search and rescue and dog sports. Learn more about Belgium’s dog breeds.
