Dog Breeds :: Belgian Tervuren

Owning
The Belgian Tervuren's most identifiable feature is his long coat. The coat requires weekly brushing to remove excess hair. He is an active dog who needs daily exercise. The Belgian Tervuren needs to be a close companion. He usually chooses one person to whom he will become attached.

Temperament
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.

Did you know?
The variety designation, Tervuren, owes its name to the Belgian village of Tervuren. The Tervuren was literally created after World War II, from the longhaired puppies in Malinois litters and the fawn-grey puppies in the Groenendael litters. The first Tervuren was registered with the AKC in 1918. Prior to 1959, the Belgian Tervurens were registered and shown as Belgian Sheepdogs. In that year the AKC granted the separate breed classification designating the Belgian Tervuren as a distinct breed. The honor of first herding champion was earned by Ch. Theriot's Red Baron, UD, a Belgian Tervuren bred and owned by Mary Alice Theriot of Covington, Louisiana.

AKC Recommends
The American Kennel Club recommends that anyone interested in a breed should take the time to thoroughly learn about that breed, talk to responsible and knowledgeable breeders and seek out the resources of the AKC national club formed by individuals devoted to preserving and protecting their breed for future generations. The AKC offers links to the official national Club of this breed - the club's officers, breeder referral, and breed rescue contact persons.