Belgian Tervuren

Breed Group: herding

"Let's see if you can keep up!"

Breed Profile

The Belgian Tervuren is a smart, lively breed with an insatiable appetite for activity. Whether it’s running after other animals, hiking along your side, or training for a new sport, they can’t get enough. Keep this pup active, or you’ll have one crazy canine on your hands.

Behavior

The Belgian Tervuren is known for their energy, intelligence, and love of working. These dogs always need a job to do, whether it’s keeping an eye on the family, running around, or playing sports. Without enough exercise or stimulation, you may come home to a mess courtesy of your Tervuren. They’re very smart and eager to please, though, so they can easily learn right from wrong or be trained in a new activity.

Coat

Belgian Tervurens have long, thick double coats, that are usually brown with a black overlay and mask. You also may find sable or grey variations, but they’re much less common. Belgian Tervurens shed heavily once or twice a year and need frequent brushing during those times. If it’s not shedding season, you can get by with brushing them once a week. Be careful not to groom them too much, as it can damage their undercoat.

Lifestyle

The Belgian Tervuren is moderately friendly with children, dogs, and other pets. They can be socialized to get along well, but they aren’t the most family-friendly breed around. Tervurens also crave lots of attention and activity, making them a bad fit for owners that aren’t home often or can’t keep up with their exercise needs.

Activity

Belgian Tervurens need plenty of outdoor exercise every day to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy long jogs, walks, and plenty of playtime in the yard—especially if you join in. These dogs love working their minds as much as their bodies, so complex games, sports, and training are perfect for them.

Characteristics

Space Needs

Activity Needs

Intelligence

Playfulness

Grooming Needs

Trainability

Watch Ability

Dog-friendliness

Child-friendliness

About the Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervurens are high-energy dogs that are always on the move. This breed is smart and loves to work, whether it’s herding animals, going for a hike, or showing you their new trick. Although their coats are long, the Tervuren is pretty low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. However, their activity needs aren’t so simple. They crave exercise and expect you to come with them, so lace up those shoes and get ready to run. These dogs need plenty of time, activity, and attention to be happy, but if you can keep up, they’re sure to be your #1 companion.