Tervuren dog

Belgian Shepherd Dog, or Tervuren

The Tervuren is a medium-sized, square-proportioned dog in the Herding dog group. Males stand between 24 and 26 inches, and weigh approximately 56 lb. Females are finer and smaller. It is recognized by its thick double coat, generally mahogany with varying degrees of black overlay (completely missing overlay on males is a serious fault), including a black mask. A small patch of white on the chest is permissible, as well as white tips on toes. The Tervuren may also be sable or grey, but this may be penalized in the show ring in some countries according to the standard of the registering body. While the FCI permits any type of red (mahogany) coat including pale yellow (sand colour) and grey the AKC has stricter rules regarding colour. While the FCI states that fawn/mahogany is to be preferred, grey colour is a fault under AKC rules.

Infini Toujours Jeune A Belgian Tervuren doing agility.

Tervurens are highly energetic, intelligent dogs who require a job to keep them occupied. This can be herding, obedience, agility, flyball, tracking, or protection work. They are also found working as Search and Rescue (SAR) dogs, finding missing people and avalanche victims. Tervurens that are not kept sufficiently busy can become hyperactive or destructive.

As companion animals, Tervurens are loyal and form strong bonds with their family, leading some to be shy around strangers. They are good watchdogs, being very observant and attentive to the slightest change in their environment. Some can be nervous, depending on breeding and early experiences, so care must be taken to adequately socialize Tervuren puppies to a wide variety of people and situations.

Tervurens are not generally recommended to first-time dog owners due to their high maintenance level.

Their appearance projects alertness and elegance. The breed is known for its loyalty and versatility. Those who own them report being charmed by their intelligence, and trainability.

Tervuren can compete in dog agility trials, obedience, showmanship, flyball, Schutzhund, tracking, and herding events. Herding instincts and trainability can be measured at noncompetitive herding tests. Belgian Shepherds exhibiting basic herding instincts can be trained to compete in herding trials.[2]

Tervuren are frequently in Schutzhund training as they are seen as a higher level protection dog to stylish or affluent owners and can be brought on most forms of travel without the panic problems that other breeds have.

A fairly light-coloured Tervuren

Generally healthy, but Tervurens can have a susceptibility to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, gastric problems (including bloats and torsions) and some eye and skin problems.

The Tervuren has a thick, double coat similar to the Groenendael. Regular brushing is necessary to remove loose undercoat, but in general, the fur is not prone to matting but occasionally, they can get hairballs. A properly textured Tervuren coat is slightly hard,[3] laying flat against the body (unlike, for instance, the Samoyed's off-standing fur). It naturally sheds dirt and debris, but burrs and seeds may stick to the feathering on the legs.

The Tervuren is shown in a natural state, with minimal trimming and cosmetic products. Bathing, brushing, and trimming the fur on the feet with scissors to emphasize their tight, cat-footed shape is the extent of most exhibitors' grooming routines. Products that alter the coloration of the coat and masking are not allowed in the ring.

Grey Tervuren dog

Padding, hackneying, weaving, crabbing and similar movement faults are to be penalized according to the degree with which they interfere with the ability of the dog to work.

In his relationship with humans, he is observant and vigilant with strangers, but not apprehensive. He does not show fear or shyness. He does not show viciousness by unwarranted or unprovoked attack. He must be approachable, standing his ground and showing confidence to meet overtures without himself making them. With those he knows well, he is most affectionate and friendly, zealous for their attention and very possessive.[4]

• In an episode of Hogan's Heroes, Belgian Shepherds were referred to as the preferred choice of police dogs.
• For the film The Company of Wolves, the wolves are primarily played by dyed Tervurens.
• Wellard from EastEnders[5]
• A Tervuren is featured in Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London as a test subject for a mind-control device.
• A Tervuren is also featured in Friday Night Dinner as neighbour Jim's dog, Wilson.
• A Belgian Malinois is featured in Inspector Lewis Season 1 Episode "Sons of the Twice Born"
• A Tervuren named Mr. Cupcake can be seen on Alaskan Bush People; he is the family dog.
• FEMA Search-and-Rescue Tervuren Snowflower Maine Topper was one of the first to respond to the Oklahoma City bombing, also participated in 9/11 SAR efforts.[6]

• Belgian Shepherd
• Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael)
• Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois)
• Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois)
• Schipperke

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Belgian Shepherd Tervuren.

• Tervuren dog at Curlie