| Origin |
Belgium dating back to around the 1800's. |
| Original Use |
Herding |
| Use Today |
Companion, herding, guard dog |
| Temperament |
It is a smart but independent companion. It is playful and vigilant, usually very protective of its family and territory. |
| Acceptance of: |
Other Dogs - Average, can be aggressive |
| Other Pets - Average |
| Strangers - Reserved and aloof |
| Children - Average, ok with older children
|
| Watchdog Ability |
Excellent |
| Guard dog Ability |
Excellent |
| Ease of Training |
Very Good |
| Living Conditions |
Can live outside in most climates. Equally at home indoors. |
| Exercise |
Requires lots of daily exercise. This need can be met with a long walk, a jog, a vigorous play session. |
| Coat |
Two layered coat. The outer coat is long, profuse, straight, and of medium texture. The inner coat is also dense but shorter and softer. |
| Grooming |
Requires brushing once or twice a week. |
| Colors |
Black |
| Height and Weight |
Ideal weight is 60 to 65 pounds (27.25 to 30 kg) while the ideal height is 22 to 26 inches (55.8 to 66 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals. |
| Life Expectancy |
10 to 12 years. |
| Group |
The AKC places the Belgian Sheepdog dog in the herding group. |