Belgian Tervuren

Herding Group

Also known as: Chien de Berger Belge, Terv

Size Category:Large
Height:♂ 24-26 inches♀ 22-24 inches
Weight:♂ 55-75 pounds♀ 45-60 pounds
Life Span:12-14 years
Compare Belgian Tervuren

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

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Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

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Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

Colors & Markings

Colors

Fawn & BlackMahogany & BlackBrindleGray & BlackSilver & BlackBlackCream & BlackFawn & LiverMahogany & Liver

Markings

White MarkingsBlack MaskBlack MarkingsBlack Points

Health Information

Recommended Health Tests

Hip EvaluationElbow EvaluationOphthalmologist EvaluationThyroid Evaluation

📜 History

The Belgian Tervuren is one of four closely related Belgian herding breeds—originally classified as a single breed—distinguished primarily by coat type. Named after the village of Tervuren, where breeder M.F. Corbeel refined the breed in the early 1900s, the Tervuren (or Chien de Berger Belge) features a long, fawn or red coat with black overlays. Before industrialization, these dogs served Belgian farmers as versatile herding and guard dogs, protecting livestock and homes while demonstrating intelligence and agility. Their evolution into a balanced, medium-sized working dog aligned with their roles as loyal companions and farm helpers. Today, Belgian Tervurens excel in diverse fields, including police and military work, search-and-rescue missions, service roles, film (notably as wolves in The Company of Wolves), and competitive dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding trials.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Belgian Tervuren can be good with children if properly socialized. They are generally friendly but may have their limits when it comes to rough handling.
The Belgian Tervuren sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing can help keep loose hair under control.
Yes, the Belgian Tervuren is generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easier to train than many other breeds. Positive reinforcement works best.
The Belgian Tervuren is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Occasional brushing and baths are usually sufficient.
The Belgian Tervuren can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Belgian Tervuren

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd

8/10
80% Compatibility
Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois

8/10
80% Compatibility
Australian Kelpie

Australian Kelpie

6/10
60% Compatibility
Border Collie

Border Collie

6/10
60% Compatibility
Compare Belgian Tervuren with Australian Shepherd

Overview

About This Breed

The Belgian Tervuren is an alert, intelligent, and courageous breed with a strong protective nature. They are affectionate with family, playful, and highly trainable, making them versatile working dogs that thrive on mental and physical stimulation.

🎭Temperament

EnergeticAlertLoyalIntelligentAttentiveProtective

Purpose

All-around herding and guard dog

Breed for

Guarding, Drafting, Police work.

Best Suited For

Active families or individuals with experience in dog training and high energy levels, preferably in homes with space for exercise and mental stimulation

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide structured training, ample exercise, and mental challenges, such as those involved in herding, agility, or service work.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

High

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with high grooming needs due to their double medium-length coat and the breed's tendency to be stubborn without consistent training.

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About Our Data

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