Home » Meet The Breeds » Belgian Laekenois Dog Breed
The Belgian Laekenois is one of the four Belgian shepherd breeds, each distinguished primarily by coat type. Named after the Belgian town of Laeken, this breed is the rarest of the Belgian breeds. Originally developed as a shepherd and guard dog, the Laekenois is recognized by its rough and tousled coat, alert demeanor, and unwavering loyalty.
The Laekenois is considered a separate breed by some registries, and a single variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog by others.
Herding
22 – 26 Inches
55 – 65 Pounds
10 – 12 Years
Country of Origin | Belgium |
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Bred For | Herding, Guarding, Companionship |
Known For | Intelligence, Agility, Alertness, Devotion |
Popularity | Low |
Temperament | Intelligent, Courageous, Alert, Protective, Affectionate |
Activities | Herding, Running, Hiking, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The Belgian Laekenois is one of four distinct herding breeds (or varieties) that hail from Belgium, the others being the Belgian Malinois, Belgian Tervuren, and Belgian Sheepdog. Each breed/variety was named for the region or area in which it was predominantly developed. The Laekenois, in particular, finds its origin from the town of Laeken.
Historically, the primary role of the Belgian Laekenois was that of a herding dog, specifically used for guarding. The breed’s vigilant nature made it the perfect watchdog, alerting farmers to potential threats to their livestock. Beyond herding, the Laekenois was also used by local farmers and landowners as guardians for their estates and properties.
The distinction between the four Belgian shepherd breeds/varieties came about during the late 19th century, when dog enthusiasts in Belgium began to standardize their national breeds. Each of the four Belgians was recognized for its distinctive coat type, color, and/or region of origin. The Laekenois is characterized by its rough, curly coat that provides protection against the elements and potential predators.
World War I and World War II brought about a decline in the breed’s numbers, as many were used for military purposes. The Laekenois’ role varied from that of a messenger dog to guard dog, showcasing the versatility of these canines on the battlefield.
Official recognition has varied for the breed. While they’ve long been recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and The Royal Kennel Club (UK), it took longer for the American Kennel Club (AKC) to grant full recognition. In 2008, the Belgian Laekenois was sanctioned to participate in AKC Herding Events for “suffix titles” and gained eligibility to compete in Companion Events. By 2011, the breed was permitted to compete in the Miscellaneous Class. The breed achieved full recognition by the AKC in 2020 and was subsequently moved to the Herding Group, marking its official standing among the fully recognized Herding breeds at AKC-sanctioned events.
Despite its extensive history and capabilities, the Belgian Laekenois remains one of the lesser-known Belgian breeds, often overshadowed by the more popular Malinois. Nevertheless, enthusiasts of the breed cherish the Laekenois for its unique appearance, intelligence, and loyal nature.
Preserving the history and characteristics of the Belgian Laekenois has been a collaborative effort between breed clubs, breeders, and breed enthusiasts. The dedication of these individuals ensures that future generations can appreciate this distinct and delightful breed.
Adult male Belgian Laekenois typically stand between 24 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder, while mature females are slightly smaller, usually measuring from 22 to 24 inches tall.
When it comes to weight, males generally range from 55 to 65 pounds, whereas females tend to weigh between 45 and 55 pounds. These measurements reflect a well-balanced and athletic physique, ideal for the breed’s herding and guarding duties.
The Belgian Laekenois possesses a harmonious proportion in its build, maintaining a balance between length and height. Females may be slightly longer than their male counterparts. This breed is solid and well-muscled, but without any hint of heaviness or clumsiness. Its bone structure is moderate, and its overall substance reflects a combination of strength, agility, and endurance.
Texture: The Belgian Laekenois boasts a rough and tousled coat. The wiry texture not only gives the breed its distinctive appearance, it also offers protection from the elements. Unlike the other Belgian breeds/varieties, the Laekenois has a beard and a coarse coat, which can feel dry to the touch.
Standard Color | |
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Black & Tan | ee |
Fawn | ee |
Mahogany | ee |
Red Sable | ee |
Cream Sable | ee |
Fawn Sable | ee |
Red | ee |
Cream | ee |
A Note About Color: All shades of red or fawn to grayish tones are acceptable. The degree of black tracing varies considerably, but is primarily seen on the muzzle and on the tail. A small to moderate amount of white on the chest and/or the tips of the toes is acceptable. Solid white markings elsewhere are unacceptable.
The tail of the Belgian Laekenois is a defining aspect of its overall silhouette. It extends naturally from the line of the spine, providing balance to the dog’s athletic build.
The Laekenois’ tail is strong at the base and gradually tapers to a point. When the dog is relaxed, the tail hangs down and reaches at least to the hock. In moments of excitement or activity, it may raise slightly but never curls over the back.
Traditionally, the tail of the Belgian Laekenois is always left undocked, displaying its natural length and characteristic movement. This undocked appearance adds to the breed’s rustic and unrefined look, which is typical of a working dog.
Owning a Belgian Laekenois is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities. This breed’s intelligence, energy, and loyalty make it a unique companion, but potential owners should be prepared to meet its physical and mental needs. Understanding the various aspects of its care, health, and temperament is crucial for ensuring a harmonious relationship.
The Belgian Laekenois is generally a robust and healthy breed, benefiting from its working dog lineage. However, like all breeds and mixed breeds, the Laekenois can be predisposed to certain health conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and adequate exercise can help with maintaining optimal health.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Belgian Laekenois ranges from 10 to 12 years. This can vary based on factors like genetics, health care, and overall lifestyle.
As with all dogs, the Belgian Laekenois may be susceptible to specific health risks, although responsible breeding and proper care can reduce the likelihood of these conditions. Some of the more common health issues associated with the Laekenois include:
Regular veterinary check-ups of the Belgian Laekenois can help in early detection and management of these and other potential health risks. It’s also beneficial for potential and current owners to be aware of these concerns and to consult with breeders about the overall health of their dogs.
Diving into the multifaceted world of the Belgian Laekenois, one encounters a breed defined by its intelligence, loyalty, and alertness. Originating from a strong working background, the Laekenois exhibits a blend of traits that make it both captivating and challenging.
For novice dog owners, the Belgian Laekenois might be a bit of a handful. The breed’s eagerness to please and unwavering devotion are commendable. However, their sharp intellect and spirited energy demand an owner who’s up for the task. Without consistent training and regular outlets for its physical and mental energy, the Laekenois might become a challenge to manage.
Sensitivity courses through the veins of the Belgian Laekenois. These dogs form profound bonds with their families, resonating deeply with their owner’s emotions and nuances. This sensitivity underscores the importance of gentle training methods and positive reinforcement.
Loneliness isn’t part of the Belgian Laekenois’ wheelhouse. This dog’s attachment to its human counterparts runs deep, making prolonged periods of solitude a potential source of anxiety and undesirable behavior. On the brighter side, the breed’s bond with family, especially when formed from a young age, means it can be a wonderful companion for children. The Laekenois’ innate protective instincts often translate into being a loyal guardian for younger members of the household. Yet, caution is advised. The breed’s herding background might occasionally surface, leading an excited Laekenois to nip at the heels of running kids.
While Belgian Laekenois form deep bonds with their humans, with the right introductions and early socialization, these dogs can also coexist harmoniously with other dogs. That said, unfamiliar canine faces might be met with reservation or territoriality, stemming from the breed’s protective nature. Similarly, strangers might find the Laekenois a bit wary at first. The Laekenois’ watchdog instincts can make these dogs excellent at alerting to unfamiliar presences. But with the right introductions and training, their initial reservations can melt away, revealing a more accepting and friendly demeanor.
The nutrition of a Belgian Laekenois plays a pivotal role in its overall health