A Brief History of Belgian Shepherds
Belgian shepherds were first created in Belgium at the end of the 19th century, with the aim of creating a versatile working dog that could herd and protect animals. The breed was recognized by the Belgian Kennel Club in 1901, and by the American Kennel Club in 1912. During World War I and II, Belgian Shepherds were used as messenger dogs, ambulance dogs (carrying bags of dressing supplies and medicine), and for other military roles due to their intelligence, courage, and their loyalty.
There are four recognized types of Belgian shepherds: Malinois, Grundel, Travern, Lacnaua. Each breed has its own unique characteristics and history, but all share the same high level of intelligence and trainability that make them popular working dogs and companions.

Why Belgian Shepherds are such a popular breed
Belgian Shepherds are popular among dog owners for their intelligence, loyalty and versatility. They have a high learning capacity and can excel in a variety of roles, from herding and guarding to search and rescue and obedience for competitive purposes. They are also known for their athleticism and agility, making them well suited for active people who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and running.
In addition, Belgian shepherds have a striking appearance with thick, double-layered fur and pointed ears. Their regal appearance and loyal nature make them a popular choice for families and individuals alike looking for a protective and devoted companion.

Appearance
Belgian Shepherds are medium to large sized dogs known for their elegant and athletic appearance. They are balanced and proportional, with a muscular structure adapted to endurance and agility. Their heads are in natural proportion to their bodies, and their almond-shaped eyes are located deep inside the skull.
One of the most distinctive characteristics of a Belgian Shepherd is their coat. They have thick fur with a double layer designed to protect them from harsh weather conditions. Their outer coat is long and straight, while their undercoat is denser and woollier.

temper
Belgian shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty and need to protect their family. They are devoted to their families and can be aloof or suspicious of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. They are also very energetic and require plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive behavior.
intelligence
Belgian shepherds are considered one of the smartest dog breeds. They learn quickly and excel in obedience training, agility and other dog sports. Their high level of intelligence also means that they require a lot of mental stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive behavior.

adaptation to training
Belgian Shepherds are highly trainable and respond well to established positive reinforcement training methods. They have a strong desire to please their owners and enjoy work while doing so, making them suitable for a variety of roles, including law enforcement, search and rescue, and the like.
Physical activity needs and activity levels
As we have already touched on, Belgian shepherds are a high-energy breed that requires plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. They excel in activities such as running, hiking and playing "go fetch". Without enough physical activity, they may become bored and develop destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging and sometimes even aggressive behaviors. Owners should aim to provide their Belgian Shepherd with at least an hour of physical activity a day, in addition to mental stimulation such as dog toys and games that will also require them to think.

Types of Belgian shepherd
Racial
As you may already remember there are four different breeds of Belgian shepherd, each with its own set of characteristics and character. Now we will detail a little about each of them
Gronendel
Grundel, is a large and agile race with long, black and silky soft fur. The Gronendel is highly intelligent, obedient and protective like the other Belgian shepherds. Dogs of this breed are very loyal and make excellent family pets, but they need a lot of exercise and stimulation.
Trevorn
Trevorn is a medium to large sized dog with thick and luxurious fur that comes in more shades of brown and gray. The Trevorn is also an intelligent dog, energetic and alert to its environment. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility and search and rescue competitions.

Belgian Shepherd Malinois
Malinois, the most popular breed of the four, is a smaller (medium size) and muscular breed with a short, dense coat that comes in shades of brown to reddish. The Malinois is a highly intelligent dog, incredibly athletic and very protective. They are commonly used for police work, military service, search and rescue, and as service dogs. Malinois are also great family pets, but they need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and of the breeds they require the most attention to training because they tend to be aggressive towards strangers and other animals if not properly trained.

to Kanawa
Lacanua is a medium-sized dog with wild and curly fur that comes in shades of brown to reddish and sometimes gray. The Lacnua is the most independent of the breeds. They are less common than the other Belgian Shepherd breeds, but are still used for police work and as service dogs. Lacanua dogs are great family pets but need a lot of socialization and training because like the Malinois they also tend to be aggressive and suspicious of strangers.

Mixed Belgian Shepherds
Belgian Shepherd dogs are often crossed with other breeds to create unique puppies. Mixed dogs have gained popularity in recent years as people seek to find pets that have the best qualities of two different breeds. Common breeds mixed with Belgian Shepherds include the Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, Border Collie, and Golden Retriever.
Mixed Belgian Shepherds can include a wide variety of physical characteristics. The coat color can vary depending on the breed mixed with the Belgian shepherd.For example, a Belgian Shepherd mixed with a Labrador Retriever may have a shorter coat and a solid color, while mixing with a Border Collie may lead to a longer, shaggier coat with different colored markings and spots. A mixture with a Golden Retriever may give wavy or straight fur, thicker, and more prone to shedding.
In terms of character, mixed Belgian Shepherds can inherit traits from both breeds. For example, a mix with a Labrador Retriever may be more friendly and calm, while a mix with a German Shepherd may be more aloof and suspicious.

Caring for a mixed Belgian Shepherd requires understanding its specific needs and traits. It is important to provide them with adequate exercise and training, as well as socialization with other dogs and humans. Pairing with a Border Collie, for example, may require more mental stimulation and playtime to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Regular grooming and veterinary checks are also necessary to ensure their health and well-being.
Examples of a mixed and unique Belgian Shepherd is the Bluesky, a mixture of the Belgian Malinois and the Siberian Husky. This dog is energetic and highly intelligent, with thick fur that requires regular grooming. A Malinois-Labrador mix, also known as a Labrinois, is a popular friendly and calm mix. This dog can be trained very easily and is a family dog.Another example is the Belgian Golden, a combination of a Belgian Malinois and a Golden Retriever. This mixed dog is very affectionate and loyal, with a calm and gentle temperament. The Golden Belgian is a great companion for families with children, as they are patient and easy to train.
Regardless of the mixed breed with the Belgian Shepherd, it is important to do your research and understand the traits and characteristics of both parent breeds before bringing a mixed breed dog into your home. Proper care and training will ensure a happy and healthy companion for many years.

Cultivation
Grooming is an important part of caring for a Belgian Shepherd, and is essential to keeping their double coat healthy and shiny. Of course, the need for grooming varies depending on the breed of your Belgian dog. For that matter, a Malinois requires less grooming than a Tavern. During shedding season, Belgian Shepherds shed a lot of hair, and owners should brush and comb their fur frequently to prevent tangles and knots. Their fur should be brushed at least once a week. In addition, they should be washed as needed, usually every two to three months, using a mild dog shampoo to prevent drying of the skin. It is also recommended to trim their nails regularly and clean their ears to prevent infections.

Training and socialization
Belgian Shepherds are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that require proper socialization and training to become well-mannered, obedient and well-behaved pets. Socialization is essential for Belgian Shepherd puppies, as it helps them develop self-confidence and positive interactions with people and other animals. Early socialization should include familiarization with different sights, sounds and experiences in a positive and controlled environment. Training methods based on positive reinforcement are recommended for Belgian Shepherds, as they respond well to praise, dog treats and play rewards.

Belgian shepherd puppies
Finding a reputable breeder
When looking for a Belgian Shepherd puppy, it is essential to find a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder will be knowledgeable about the breed, provide you with health certificates for both parents and puppies, and allow you to see the conditions in which the puppies were raised. They will also be available to answer any questions you may have and offer support throughout the puppy's life.
Socialization and training of a Belgian shepherd puppy
As we mentioned socialization is a critical aspect of owning a Belgian Shepherd and it is important to start it from a very young age. Socialization should start as early as possible and should include exposure to different people, animals, sounds and environments. This helps the puppy to develop into a self-confident and well-adjusted mature dog. And most importantly, it allows the dog to grow up so that it is not just aggressive towards strangers, children and animals.

Training for living at home and crate training
House training and crate or fence training are crucially important aspects of owning a Belgian Shepherd puppy. Begin indoor training as soon as you bring your puppy home by establishing a routine for feeding and toilet breaks. Crate training can help with house training and also provide a safe and comfortable space for your puppy to rest and sleep in. Introduce the dog crate gradually and make it a positive experience with snacks and toys. Avoid using the crate as a form of punishment.

A comparison between a Belgian shepherd and a German shepherd
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a Belgian Shepherd and a German Shepherd? A Belgian Shepherd and a German Shepherd share some similarities in their appearance and temperament, which can make it difficult for some people to decide which breed is right for them. Both breeds are highly intelligent, loyal and trainable, making them popular choices for working roles and as family pets.
However, there are also some notable differences between the two races. Belgian Shepherds tend to be smaller and lighter than German Shepherds, with a more refined build. They also have a higher energy level and require more daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

In terms of character, Belgian shepherds are known for their focus, which makes them excel in roles such as police work, search and rescue, and herding. German shepherds are also highly trainable and excel in these types of roles, but tend to have a more relaxed demeanor in general.
In the end, choosing between a Belgian Shepherd and a German Shepherd comes down to personal preferences and lifestyle factors. Both breeds are wonderful dogs with a lot to offer, but require dedicated owners who are willing to provide them with the time, attention and exercise they need to thrive. If you want to read more about the German shepherd, you can go to the article about the breed here on the website.

Frequently asked questions and answers about the Belgian Shepherd

Is a Belgian Shepherd suitable for children?
I can tell you from personal acquaintance with this dog breed, which of course is especially true of the Malinois, which is a high-quality, smart and very loyal dog. Let's start by saying that in order for the dog to grow up to be a loyal friend to your children, it is recommended to train him as a puppy, this will help him to be the best dog for children.

Does a belgian shepherd shed hair?
Yes, unfortunately this is a well-known problem with Belgian shepherd dogs, but we will go on and say that as long as you give good nutrition from a young age, the hair loss will decrease, so we have prepared for you a variety of foods for medium breed puppies and it would be highly recommended to be careful about choosing quality food for puppies

Is it easy to train the Belgian shepherd dog breed?
Wow, yes, yes, a Belgian Shepherd is a very smart dog with a very high intelligence and very easy to train. Just start at the age of 3 months with basic commands and see how quickly he learns.

Is a Belgian shepherd suitable for living in an apartment?
I personally know several dozens of Belgian breed dogs that live in apartments, but it is important to provide them with quality time in the dog park or in the yard so that they release the energy that accumulates in their bodies. The Belgian shepherd dog breed knows how to adapt to any situation that comes to it.

Should I breed a Belgian Shepherd?
The first and fastest answer you will have is yes! A quality dog ​​that will add and make you happy and will be your most loyal friend, with responsibility!

How long does a Belgian shepherd dog live?
The average lifespan of the Belgian Shepherd dog breed is between 10 - 14 years.

Summary
Belgian Shepherds are a popular breed known for their intelligence, athleticism and loyalty. There are four recognized types of Belgian shepherds: Malinois, Grundel, Trevorn, Lacnaute, each with their own unique history, physical characteristics, temperament and trainability. In addition, there are mixed Belgian Shepherds that can inherit a variety of traits from their parent breeds which requires attention when adopting them.

When caring for a Belgian Shepherd, it is important to provide them with enough exercise, mental stimulation and socialization. Proper training techniques can also help ensure that your pet grows up to be well-mannered and obedient. House training and crate training are essential for a new puppy, and when adopting it is important to find a reputable breeder or animal shelter to ensure your pet comes from a healthy and ethical breeding background.

Overall, Belgian Shepherds make fantastic pets for active and experienced owners who are willing to put in the time and effort required to care for these intelligent and energetic dogs. And while they may share similarities with German Shepherds, they also have distinct differences that make them a unique and wonderful breed in their own right.

If you have any more questions about the Belgian shepherd or any other topic, you are welcome to contact us, or look at our other articles on the blog. If you enjoyed this article, we recommend that you also read the article about the German shepherd.