INDEX
My opinion is that there is no better canine then the Belgian Tervuren!
Belgian Tervurens are extremely versatile managing Search and Rescue, Service, Therapy, Herding, Obedience, Rally, Freestyle, Agility, Tracking and Companionship easily. They love their humans and train with little effort. They also have a wonderful sense of humor which makes working with them a joy!
During the 1800s, European sheepherders perfected several breeds of dogs to gather, drive,and protect their flocks. The development of breeds in each country reflected a strong sense of nationalism as farmers tried to outdo each other with dogs of great prowess and skill.
Germany had its German Shepherd; France its Briard and Beauceron; Portugal its ancient Castro Laboreiro; Hungary its Puli; Poland it Tatra and Owczarek Nizinny; and Belgium its Bouvier des Flandres and four types of sheepdogs known collectively as Belgian sheepherding breeds.
The four Belgians developed from the same basic stock brought together for periodic judging by a veterinarian devoted to proper development of breed and type. Eventually, four distinct types emerged from the pack; the jet-black, long-coated Groenendael; the smooth-coated charcoaled fawn with dark mask known as Malinois; long-coated fawn dogs with black overlay know as Tervuren; and rough-coated fawn dogs with traces of black known as Lakenois.
From AKC WebSite:
"The first impression of the Belgian Tervuren is that of a well-balanced, medium size dog, elegant in appearance, standing squarely on all fours, with posed carriage of head and neck. He/Her is strong, agile, well-muscled, alert and full of life. He/Her gives the impression of depth and solidity without bulkiness. THe male should appear unquestionably masculine; the female should have a distinctly feminine look and be judged equally with the male. The Belgian Tervuren is a natural dog and there is no need for excessive posing in the show ring. The Belgian Tervuren reflects the qualities of intelligence, courage, alertness and devotion to master. In addition to his/her inherent ability as a herding dog, he/her protects his mater's person and property without being overtly aggressive. He/Her is watchful, attentive, and usually in motion when not under command. The Belgian Tervuren is a herding dog and versatile worker. The highest value is to be placed on qualities that maintain these abilities, specifically, correct temperament, gait, bite and coat."
Please enjoy this website and if you have any comments or questions, do not hesitate to contact me, Cindy James.