BelgenBliss

The history of the Belgian Shepherd

The first time the Belgian Shepherd was recognized as a herding breed was at the Club du Chien de Berger Belge (Belgian Shepherd Dog Club) in 1891. Professor Reul organised and arranged a gathering of 117 shepherd dogs from Belgium and it was determined that these dogs all had the same structure and feathers in their anatomy, and temperament, the only thing that varied was the coat. 40 dogs were selected for breeding. At the first specialty show in 1892 three coat varieties was described: long-haired, short-haired and rough-haired. Later the varieties were divided into four coat types for hair structure and colour; the Malinois, the Laekenois, the Groenendael, and the Tervueren.The Belgian Shepherd is a harmonic proportioned squared dog with strength and elegance. The Belgian Shepherd will with its high placing of the head stand as elegant and robust. It is to be judged in their free natural standing position without physical contact with the handler in the ring.All the four varieties have a reputation of being really good working dogs and are all known to be intelligent, obedient, faithful and a strong protector. Not to forget, a good and loyal companion, also good with children.