7 Fascinating Dog Breeds from Belgium

Belgium is home to several unique dog breeds, each with a rich history and purpose. Many of these native Belgian dogs were originally bred as working animals, helping with tasks like herding livestock, guarding flocks, and protecting the family home. Additionally, smaller breeds played vital roles as watchdogs, rat catchers, and loyal companions.

Keep reading to discover seven remarkable dog breeds from Belgium, each with its own special traits and fascinating background.

1. Belgian Laekenois

The Belgian Laekenois (pronounced lak-in-wah) is one of four related Belgian shepherd breeds, alongside the Belgian Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, and Belgian Tervuren. All four breeds share a similar size and body type and were originally bred for herding and guarding livestock, as well as protecting people and property. In Belgium, they are considered different varieties of the same breed, the Belgian Shepherd Dog, with the primary differences being coat type and color.

The Belgian Laekenois, the rarest of the Belgian shepherd breeds, gets its name from the town of Laeken in the Brussels region. This breed is known for its distinctive wiry coat, giving it a tousled, rugged appearance. The Laekenois is a watchful, protective, and affectionate dog, especially with its family. In the United States, it is recognized by the American Kennel Club and is part of the Herding Group.

2. Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois originated in the Malines region just outside of Brussels. Like its Belgian shepherd relatives, it was initially bred as a sheep herder and a protector of family and farm. Unlike the other Belgian shepherd breeds, the Malinois is the only one with a short coat.

This breed is well-known in the United States, often recognized for its role as a military dog and police K-9, which has made it one of the most recognizable Belgian shepherd breeds in the country.

The Malinois is often confused with the more common German Shepherd due to their similar appearance. However, while they share many traits, the Malinois has a slightly lighter build and a square body outline. Its coat is also shorter than that of the German Shepherd. Some also argue that the Malinois has a more intense personality and higher drive compared to the German Shepherd.

In the U.S., the Belgian Malinois is recognized as part of the AKC Herding Group.

3. Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael)

The Belgian Sheepdog is unique among the Belgian shepherd breeds due to its long, solid black coat. While this breed is commonly known as the Belgian Sheepdog in the United States, it is referred to as the Groenendael (pronounced Groan-en-dahl) in other parts of the world. The name Groenendael comes from the village of Groenendael, where this variety of Belgian shepherd was originally bred.

Traditionally, the Belgian Sheepdog was used for herding sheep and cattle, as well as working as a police and military dog. Today, the breed remains highly versatile. It is trained for a wide range of roles, including police work, search and rescue, service and therapy work, and competing in various performance sports such as obedience, agility, herding, Schutzhund, and tracking.

The Belgian Sheepdog is a proud member of the AKC Herding Group, where its intelligence, athleticism, and work ethic continue to shine.

4. Belgian Tervuren

Among the Belgian shepherd breeds, the Belgian Tervuren most closely resembles its cousin, the Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael). Both breeds share a similar long, thick, double coat, but the key difference lies in their coloring. While the Belgian Sheepdog has a solid black coat, the Belgian Tervuren comes in various shades of tan, ranging from rich fawn to russet mahogany, with a black overlay and a distinct black mask on its face.

The Belgian Tervuren is named after the village of Tervuren, where the breed was first standardized. Like other Belgian shepherd breeds, the Tervuren requires ample exercise to channel its high energy. These dogs are highly affectionate with their family, seeking attention and even becoming possessive of their loved ones. The Belgian Tervuren is part of the AKC Herding Group, known for its intelligence, agility, and dedication.

5. Bouvier des Flanders

The Bouvier des Flandres, as its name suggests, originates from the Flanders region of Belgium. Like other Belgian herding breeds such as the Laekenois, Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, and Tervuren, the Bouvier was traditionally used as a livestock herder and an all-purpose farm dog. However, the Bouvier stands out for being much larger and more powerful than other herding breeds, with a robust, heavy build.

This breed is easily recognized by its rough, tousled coat. Unlike some herding breeds that are constantly alert and active, Bouviers tend to be calm and steady, making them less hyperactive than others. However, they still require early socialization and proper training. An experienced dog owner who can provide mental stimulation and sufficient activity will do well with a Bouvier des Flandres.

The Bouvier des Flandres is recognized as part of the AKC Herding Group, known for its intelligence, versatility, and strength.

6. Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon may be the smallest of the Belgian native breeds, but it certainly has a big personality. Originally, these scrappy little dogs were used as ratters in horse stables. However, their charm and unique appearance soon caught the attention of royalty. In the 1870s, Queen Henrietta Maria of Belgium fell in love with the breed, and it wasn’t long before the Brussels Griffon became a favorite among the elite.

With its adorably scruffy face, soulful eyes, and endearing nature, it’s easy to see why people are drawn to the Brussels Griffon. Once favored by royalty, it traded its days in the streets and stables for luxurious palaces and cozy beds. Today, the Brussels Griffon is the ultimate lap dog and companion, craving human attention and thriving on close interaction. These dogs don’t do well when left alone for long periods.

The Brussels Griffon is recognized as part of the AKC Toy Group, where its affectionate and charming personality makes it a beloved companion.

7. Schipperke

The Schipperke, pronounced “skip-er-key”, originated in the Flemish provinces of Belgium, with roots dating back to Medieval times. These little dogs were commonly seen in Belgian dockyards, where they played an essential role in keeping rats at bay on barges and canal boats, as well as serving as guard dogs and loyal companions to the boat workers. In fact, the breed’s Flemish name translates to “little captain,” reflecting their hardworking and bold nature. Schipperkes were also valued by shopkeepers, where they excelled as watchdogs and vermin hunters.

Despite their small size, the Schipperke is a sturdy, compact dog with a tailless body that appears square in profile. They are known for their charismatic and feisty nature, paired with an abundance of energy. The breed is still an excellent watchdog today, alerting their owners to any approaching strangers. They also remain efficient at eliminating rats from your home or yard.

The Schipperke is part of the AKC Non-Sporting Group, where their lively personality and keen instincts continue to make them beloved companions.

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