The Belgian Laekenois is a medium-sized herding dog from Belgium, known for its athletic build, pointed ears, and a double coat featuring wiry, curly fur. This impressive sheepdog shares close ties with three other Belgian shepherd breeds: the Groenendael, Malinois, and Tervuren. What sets the Laekenois apart is its distinctive coat, which makes it stand out among its cousins. Though the name may seem tricky, it’s pronounced simply as “Lak-in-wah.”
With their strong work ethic and protective nature, Belgian Laekenois dogs excel as guardians and loyal companions. However, they aren’t ideal for novice owners. These dogs need plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise to stay happy and fulfilled, as they possess a deep-rooted working-dog instinct.
🐾Breed Overview
Group: Herding
Height: 24 to 26 inches (males); 22 to 24 inches (females)
Weight: 55 to 65 pounds
Coat: Medium length double coat with wiry, curly texture
Coat Color: Red, fawn, or gray with traces of black on muzzle or tail
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
Temperament: Alert, protective, intelligent, active, affectionate
Hypoallergenic: No
Origin: Belgium
Table of Contents
- Characteristics of the Belgian Laekenois
- History of the Belgian Laekenois
- Belgian Laekenois Care
- Common Health Problems
- Diet and Nutrition
- Where to Adopt or Buy a Belgian Laekenois
- Belgian Laekenois Overview
Characteristics of the Belgian Laekenois
The Belgian Laekenois is known for being incredibly affectionate and deeply bonded to its family, including children. While they aren’t typically aggressive toward strangers, they are naturally wary and cautious around unfamiliar faces.
According to the breed standard, the Laekenois is described as watchful, attentive, and constantly on the move when not given a command. These alert and sensitive dogs are highly attuned to their surroundings, noticing every change—whether it’s a new person, object, or noise. This high level of awareness can be particularly challenging during their puppyhood and adolescence, as they learn to calm down and control their impulses.
Training and caring for a Laekenois requires time, patience, and consistent effort. However, with the right commitment, these dogs make excellent companions for active and dedicated families. Their intelligence makes them a joy to train, and they are eager to please their owners. Be prepared to dedicate several hours each day to their exercise and mental stimulation needs, as these dogs thrive on both physical and mental challenges.
Affection Level: High
Friendliness: Medium
Kid-Friendly: High
Pet-Friendly: Medium
Exercise Needs: High
Playfulness: Medium
Energy Level: High
Trainability: High
Intelligence: High
Tendency to Bark: Medium
Amount of Shedding: Medium
History of the Belgian Laekenois
The Belgian Laekenois originates from Belgium, where it was developed as part of a group of native herding breeds centuries ago. These dogs were primarily used as guardians of livestock, particularly cattle and sheep, while also forming strong bonds with their families. As a result, the Laekenois evolved into an excellent working dog and a devoted protector of both people and property.
In the 1890s, Belgian shepherds were officially categorized into four main types: the Groenendael (also known as the Belgian Sheepdog), the Malinois, the Tervuren, and the Laekenois. While these breeds shared a similar stature and temperament, the primary distinguishing feature was their coat type.
The Laekenois became particularly recognized for its wiry, curly coat. The name “Laekenois” was derived from the town of Laeken, a region closely associated with this breed. Interestingly, aside from its role as a guardian for livestock, the Laekenois was also tasked with guarding linen drying in the fields—a unique and important job during earlier times.
Like many other European breeds, the Laekenois and other Belgian shepherds nearly faced extinction following the devastating impact of World Wars I and II. However, passionate breed enthusiasts worked tirelessly to preserve these bloodlines, and over time, the breed saw a slow resurgence—although the Laekenois remains quite rare today.
When introduced to the United States, the Laekenois quickly gained a devoted following of breeders, exhibitors, and dog owners. In 1995, the American Belgian Laekenois Association was formed, and by 1998, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Foundation Stock Service. It was eligible to compete in the Companion Group that same year. In 2005, it was classified in the Miscellaneous Group and, on July 1, 2020, the Laekenois finally received full recognition as part of the AKC Herding Group.
This breed’s journey from near extinction to full recognition is a testament to its resilience and the dedication of those who’ve worked to keep it alive.
Read More: 7 Fascinating Dog Breeds from Belgium
Belgian Laekenois Care
The Belgian Laekenois is a rare and striking breed, originally bred for hard work. While your Laekenois may be generations removed from a sheepfold in Belgium, its mentality remains sharp and always alert. If not given enough activity and attention, this breed can become neurotic, destructive, and willful. While exercise and training take priority, regular grooming is also necessary, though it’s not as time-consuming as the other needs.
Exercise
It’s no surprise that exercise is crucial for the health and mental well-being of the Laekenois. Plan to spend about two hours a day engaging with your dog, balancing physical activity and mental stimulation. As a Belgian shepherd, it’s said you can’t out-exercise these dogs, so after providing a physical outlet, engage them mentally through training.
Agility training is another great way to keep a Laekenois engaged. These dogs excel at challenges, and activities like dog sports are perfect for both physical and mental exercise. Puzzle toys and games like fetch are also excellent for keeping them entertained indoors.
Grooming
Grooming a Laekenois is essential, but it’s relatively easy. With their 2 1/2-inch tousled coat, weekly brushing is necessary to prevent matting and remove debris. Avoid clipping their coat, as it can damage the double-layered fur that helps regulate their body temperature.
Regular grooming also includes brushing their teeth, trimming their nails, and checking their ears for dirt and debris, which could lead to infections. Clean your dog’s ears as needed with a cotton ball and a gentle ear-cleaning solution.
Training
The Laekenois matures quickly when given the opportunity to learn. They are exceptional at obedience training, which should start at six to eight weeks old to lay a strong foundation for advanced training later.
Training will not only improve your Laekenois’s behavior but also strengthen your bond. These dogs are incredibly loyal and have a strong sense of duty, especially when it comes to guarding people and property. It’s essential to establish yourself as the pack leader early on, as losing this role can make it difficult to control their impulses.
Once your puppy has received the proper vaccinations, begin introducing them to different people, animals, and situations to enhance their adaptability. Socializing your Laekenois from a young age will help them adjust well to new experiences.
Laekenois owners often notice that their dog’s wariness of strangers becomes more pronounced at night. They are quick to assess any unfamiliar faces or situations, and won’t hesitate to guard against potential threats. This is why early socialization and continuous training are vital for this breed.
Socialization
The Laekenois can get along with other animals, provided they are properly introduced. Originally bred to protect other animals, the Laekenois doesn’t have a strong prey drive, but its herding instincts may make it mouthy, as it may try to herd both people and animals. Without enough exercise and stimulation, this natural behavior may turn into biting tendencies, so it’s important to keep them well-exercised and engaged.
In summary, the Belgian Laekenois is a highly intelligent, energetic, and protective breed that thrives on exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. Proper socialization and care will ensure they are happy and well-behaved companions.
Common Health Problems
The Belgian Laekenois is generally considered a healthy breed, but, like all large dogs, it is still prone to certain health issues. Responsible breeders typically screen parent dogs before breeding and provide potential adopters with the family medical history of the litter to ensure the dog’s health.
The American Belgian Laekenois Association recommends the following evaluations for the breed: hip and elbow exams, cardiac checkups, thyroid testing, ophthalmologist evaluations, and a dental exam. In addition to these screenings, there are a few common health concerns to be aware of for the Laekenois:
- Skin Allergies: Similar to many dog breeds, the Laekenois may suffer from itchy, red, or irritated skin, often due to food allergies or environmental triggers like pollen, dust, or chemicals.
- Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: Common in large breeds, this condition occurs when the dog’s joints don’t form properly, leading to discomfort and potentially arthritis as the dog ages. Regular screenings can help detect dysplasia early.
- Heart Problems: Various heart conditions can affect the Laekenois, so it’s essential for veterinarians to monitor their heart health throughout the dog’s life for early detection and treatment if necessary.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This degenerative eye disease can eventually lead to blindness. Regular eye exams with a veterinary ophthalmologist can help detect PRA early.
- Epilepsy: This neurological disorder causes seizures, but many dogs with epilepsy can be treated with medication to manage the condition and improve their quality of life.
- Hypothyroidism: When the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, it can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and other health problems. Treatment usually involves hormone replacement therapy.
- Dental Issues: Like many breeds, periodontal problems and other oral health issues are common in Laekenois. Regular veterinary dental checkups are essential to maintain good oral health and prevent serious complications.
By staying vigilant with regular health exams and screenings, you can help ensure your Belgian Laekenois lives a long, healthy, and happy life.
Diet and Nutrition
Like all breeds, it’s essential to provide your Belgian Laekenois with a well-balanced diet of high-quality dog food, and treats should be given in moderation. Excessive treats or table scraps can lead to weight gain and negatively affect your dog’s long-term health.
Because dental health can be a concern for this breed, it’s best to avoid wet food. Instead, choose hard, crunchy kibble that helps reduce plaque buildup and promotes healthy teeth. Make sure to select a diet that caters to your dog’s specific needs, including any food allergies, and consult your veterinarian to determine the proper portion sizes based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. This will help ensure that your Laekenois remains healthy and fit for years to come.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Belgian Laekenois
If you’re considering adding a Laekenois to your family, it’s important to assess whether you’re ready to meet the demands of caring for this breed on a daily basis. The Laekenois is not recommended for novice owners due to its high energy, mental stimulation needs, and training requirements. Additionally, this breed is quite rare, so you’re unlikely to find one at a local shelter. However, you can check with shelters to meet other Belgian shepherd breeds in need of homes, or look into rescues specializing in Belgian shepherds in your area.
Adopting a Laekenois puppy doesn’t always mean you’ll have to import one from Belgium, though that is a possibility. There are only a limited number of breeders in the United States. It’s important to thoroughly research breeders, asking detailed questions about the lineage and temperament of the puppy’s parents. The puppy’s behavior and health can be greatly influenced by the characteristics of the breeding line. Laekenois puppies typically range in price from $650 to $2,500, depending on factors like availability and pedigree. Be sure to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the breed’s well-being and health.
The following resources can help you start your search:
Belgian Laekenois Overview
Pros:
- Alert and Watchful: Known for their keen sense of awareness, the Belgian Laekenois is always on alert, making them excellent watchdogs.
- Affectionate with Family: These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their family members, showing plenty of affection and love.
- Highly Trainable: With their intelligence and eagerness to please, the Laekenois excels in various canine sports and training activities.
Cons:
- Requires Extensive Exercise and Training: Due to their high energy and intelligence, these dogs need several hours of exercise and training each day to stay mentally and physically stimulated.
- Can Become Restless and Vocal: If bored or under-stimulated, the Laekenois may become restless and vocal, which can lead to behavioral issues.
- Guarding Instincts May Lead to Aggression: Their strong guarding instincts can sometimes result in aggressive behavior if not properly managed and socialized.
The Belgian Laekenois is a wonderful companion for active, experienced owners who can provide them with the exercise, training, and structure they need.
FAQ
How Do You Groom a Laekenois Dog?
The Belgian Laekenois is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Its double coat naturally regulates its body temperature and only requires brushing once a week to prevent matting. It’s important to avoid trimming the coat, as it can interfere with its natural function.
What Does a Belgian Laekenois Look Like?
The Belgian Laekenois is a large, athletic dog, similar in build to the Belgian Malinois, with pointed ears and a solid-colored coat. The coat often has black tips on the ears, nose, feet, or tail. What sets the Laekenois apart from other Belgian shepherd breeds is its unique curly, wiry coat, giving it a distinctive look.
When Was the Belgian Laekenois Recognized by the AKC?
The Belgian Laekenois was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the Herding Group on July 1, 2020. Before that, the breed was listed in the Foundation Stock Service and part of the Companion and Miscellaneous groups from 1998 to 2005.
