Belgian Tervuren
Herding Group
Height at Shoulders
Females 22-24 in, Males 24-26 in
Weight
Females 45-60 lbs, Males 55-75 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-14 yrs
History
The Belgian Tervuren gets its name from the village of Tervuren in Belgium where it originated in the 1800's. Belgian farmers sought a versatile herding and guarding breed that would also be an affectionate and protective companion. A breeder named M. F. Corbeel developed the perfect breed for the job by mating Tom and Poes, two fawn-colored dogs that were the foundation of the Belgian Tervuren. The Tervuren is one of four AKC-registered shepherd breeds from Belgium.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Belgian Tervuren share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★★
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★★☆☆
★★★★☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
Intelligence
★★★★★
Affection Towards Family
★★★★☆
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★★★☆
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★★☆☆
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
Energy Level
★★★★★
Sensitivity
★★★★★
Noise Level
★★★★★
Prey Drive
★★★★☆
Shedding
★★★★☆
Common Traits
Alert, brave, and protective
Intelligent and play-oriented, responding best to fun training
Shed year-round
Chasers that will go after anything that moves, including cars, bicycles, and joggers
Prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time