Home » Meet The Breeds » Belgian Tervuren Dog Breed
The Belgian Tervuren, often referred to simply as the Tervuren or “Terv,” is one of four Belgian sheepdog breeds/varieties that is distinguished by its long, flowing coat and dynamic presence. Known for its versatility, the Tervuren excels in a wide variety of roles, from a reliable working dog to a much loved companion in the home.
Herding
22 – 26 Inches
45 – 75 Pounds
12 – 14 Years
Country of Origin | Belgium |
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Bred For | Herding, Guarding, Companionship |
Known For | Intelligence, Sensitivity, Loyalty, Elegant Appearance, Proud Carriage |
Popularity | Moderate |
Temperament | Alert, Intelligent, Courageous, Protective |
Activities | Herding, Running, Hiking, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The Belgian Tervuren, one of the four varieties of Belgian Shepherd, boasts a rich and storied history. Originating from the Tervuren region of Belgium, hence its name, this breed/variety has been a cherished herding companion for centuries.
The Tervuren, like its cousins (the Belgian Laekenois, Belgian Malinois, and Belgian Sheepdog), was primarily developed as a working dog, designed to herd livestock and protect the animals from potential threats. Given the varying regions of Belgium and the specific needs of local farmers, the dogs naturally diverged in coat type and color, eventually leading to the distinct breeds/varieties that are recognized by registries today.
While the primary function of the Belgian Tervuren was herding, the dog’s intelligence, loyalty, and versatility soon saw it serving in other roles, such as police work, search and rescue operations, and even as messengers and draft animals during wartime. World Wars I and II saw a decline in the breed’s population due to the devastations of war, but dedicated breed enthusiasts worked diligently to revive and preserve it during the mid-20th century.
Official recognition of the Belgian Tervuren varies across different kennel clubs. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Belgian Tervuren as a distinct breed, separate from the other Belgian Shepherds, in 1959. On the other hand, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognizes all the four Belgian Shepherds as variants of a single breed. The Royal Kennel Club (UK) recognizes the Belgian Tervuren under the collective name of “Belgian Shepherd Dog,” but distinguishes the dogs by coat type and color.
Over time, the Tervuren has also made its mark in the Conformation show ring, not just as a working dog. With its elegant appearance, intelligence, and agility, the breed soon gained popularity in many countries, including the United States, where it has developed a devoted following.
Today, the Belgian Tervuren stands as a testament to the dedication of breed enthusiasts. Its enduring qualities of intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, have made it a favorite of many both at home and in the pasture.
Adult male Belgian Tervuren typically stand between 24 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder, while mature females tend to be slightly smaller, ranging from 22 to 24 inches in height.
As for weight, males generally weigh between 55 and 75 pounds, with females usually weighing in the 45- to 60-pound range.
The Belgian Tervuren boasts a well-proportioned and robust body. The dog’s length, measured from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttocks, is roughly equal to the height at the withers, giving the Terv a nearly square profile. This breed/variety has strong bone, yet it doesn’t appear heavy. Substance and elegance are both vital characteristics of the Tervuren, thus creating a harmonious balance of strength and agility.
Texture: The Belgian Tervuren boasts a double coat, designed to shield these dogs in various weather conditions. The outer coat is straight, abundant, and of medium length, aligning naturally with the body. The texture is neither silky nor rough. Instead, the texture lies somewhere in between, offering protection as well as creating the breed’s signature elegance. The undercoat, on the other hand, is dense and soft, ensuring insulation against harsh weather.
Standard Color | |
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Fawn & Black | ee |
Mahogany & Black | ee |
Brindle | ee |
Gray & Black | ee |
Gray & Black | ee |
Black | ee |
Cream & Black | ee |
Fawn & Liver | ee |
Mahogany & Liver | ee |
Standard Marking | |
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White Markings | ee |
Black Mask | ee |
Black Markings | ee |
Black Points | ee |
A Note About Color: The coat of the Belgian Tervuren consists of double-pigmented hairs that are black-tipped, giving an overlay appearance. This blackening is most pronounced on the shoulders, back, and ribs; it does not appear in patches. The ears are black, as is the face where it forms a mask. The coat’s color on the underside of the body, breeches, and tail may be cream, gray, or light beige. White is acceptable only on the chest and/or the tips of the toes. Otherwise, white markings are a serious offense, as are solid black- or solid liver-colored dogs.
The Belgian Tervuren’s tail is a continuation of the dog’s elegant silhouette, further accentuating the dog’s graceful presence and agile demeanor.
The tail of the Tervuren is strong at its base and gradually tapers towards the end. When the dog is at rest, the tail hangs down and reaches at least to the hock. The tip may curve slightly upward, but it does not form a hook. In action, or when the dog is excited, the tail is raised but should never curl over the back.
The tail is well-covered with thick, long hair, forming a plume. This luxurious fringe is not only a sight to behold, it also reflects the breed’s adaptability to various weather conditions, as it provides an additional layer of protection against the elements.
It is worth noting that the Belgian Tervuren’s tail is never docked, thus allowing it to express a full range of emotions, from alertness to relaxation. The natural tail further contributes to the dog’s natural beauty.
Choosing to welcome a Belgian Tervuren into the home is a rewarding experience, but like all breeds and mixed breeds, the Terv has its own unique requirements and characteristics. Potential owners should be aware of the breed’s specific needs, temperament, and health considerations before commiting to the responsibilities that come with ownership.
The Belgian Tervuren is generally a healthy and robust breed/variety, one that is blessed with a long lineage of working dogs that have been bred for function as well as form.
Lifespan: A well-cared-for Belgian Tervuren has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, although many have been known to live even longer.
The Belgian Tervuren, while generally a robust dog, can have certain health issues that prospective and current owners should be vigilant about. Some of the more common concerns include:
While these are the most common concerns, it’s essential to note that not every Belgian Tervuren will be diagnosed with any or all of these conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and a well-maintained environment play a crucial role in a Terv’s overall health.
The Belgian Tervuren is renowned not just for its physical allure, but also for its captivating personality. A dog imbued with both intelligence and a strong work ethic, the Terv is versatile and adaptable. However, these traits also mean that they have specific needs in terms of interaction and stimulation.
Tervuren, while incredibly loyal, forming deep bonds with their families, presents a unique set of challenges due to this dog’s intelligence and high energy levels. For novice dog owners, it’s essential to be prepared to invest time into training and to maintain consistent boundaries that will harness the breed’s full potential and ensure a harmonious relationship in the home.
When considering the sensitivity level of the Tervuren, one can note that this dog is deeply intuitive. Tervs are attuned to the emotions of their family members and will often act as mirrors, reflecting the mood of their environment. This makes them excellent companions, but it also means they will thrive best in a stable, loving environment.
Leaving a Tervure