Belgian Tervurens or Tervs are one of Belgian’s herding dog breeds. The Belgian Tervuren is a medium to large-sized dog that features a straight and abundant coat. These dogs have muscular bodies that match with elegant but alert movements.
Belgian Tervurens are known to be charmers. They are not the best dogs for inexperienced owners because they’re highly energetic. Their temperaments may overwhelm you. However, if you love outdoor activities and are willing to put in some work, they become the most affectionate and devoted pets.
Belgian Tervuren Breed Statistics
| Dog Breed Group | Herding |
| Breed Size | Medium to Large |
| Height | 24-26 inches (male); 22-24 inches (female) |
| Weight | 55-75 pounds (male); 45-60 pounds (female) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
Belgian Tervuren Breed Statistics
| Energy level | |
| Exercise needs | |
| Requires attention | |
| Playfulness | |
| Trainability | |
| Shedding | |
| Grooming | |
| Friendly with family | |
| Friendly with kids | |
| Friendly with strangers | |
| Friendly with other dogs | |
| Prey Drive |
Belgian Tervuren History
The history of Belgian Tervurens can be traced back to the 1800s in Belgium. They are one of the four Belgian dog breeds – the other three are Belgian Sheepdogs, Malinois, and Laekenois.
These dogs are known as Chien de Berger Belge in their homeland, Tervuren. It is believed that they have been helping herd flocks for centuries. However, it wasn’t until 1891 when these dogs became known. It was when Belgian herding dogs were finally divided into four types.
The one responsible for breeding the Belgian Tervurens is M.F. Corbeel. He was the one who produced Tom and Poes – the breed’s foundation.
By 1893, the first standard for the Tervuren was written, but it wasn’t until 1953 when the Belgian Tervs were finally imported to the US. Six years later, in 1959, the American Kennel Club finally recognized the dog breed.
Now, Belgian Tervuren ranks 106th as the most popular dog breed in the US. He belongs to one of the most talented herding breeds and also excels in dog shows.
Belgian Tervuren Temperament
Tervs are known to be courageous, alert, and intelligent dogs. They are working dogs, which means they are highly active and are always happier with having something to do. If you like going hiking, biking, running, and other sports, it’s recommended to take your Terv with you.
These dogs shouldn’t be left without having anything to do. They can become destructive when bored, especially their size. They demand time and affection.
If given the right outlets to release their energy, Belgian Tervurens are great pets indoors. They’re affectionate and friendly towards family members, and sometimes, you can observe them following you from room to room.
Belgian Tervurens have typical observant nature that makes them excellent watchdogs. They are also very protective and territorial, but they are not aggressive dogs. They will not attack without any reason.
These dogs are usually good with older children and other pets like cats. Toddlers would require some supervision as misbehaviors may lead to Tervs accidentally injuring them. Socialization is also beneficial in making them more well-rounded dogs.
Training may come as a challenge with the Belgian Tervuren. This is why inexperienced dog owners may find them overwhelming. The secret is to train them at an early age, and ensure that you provide consistent and firm leadership. Positive reinforcements are highly encouraged, and make sure not to be harsh to these dogs.
Belgian Tervuren Care Requirements
- Nutrition: Tervs don’t have any special dietary requirements. All they need is a high-quality and well-balanced meal that will support their high-energies, and they’re good to go. We highly recommend putting a mix of all the essential nutrients in your dog food. Proteins are essential for muscle growth. You can get this from animal meat like lamb, beef, and poultry. Fats are vital for healthy hair growth. You can get this from fish or chicken oil. Carbohydrates will provide the energy for play; you can get this from whole grains. You can add fruits and vegetables in your dog’s diet, too, as sources of fiber and vitamins. If you give them dog food, make sure to choose the premium ones. This should not contain fillers and additives that can be harmful to your dog.
- Grooming: Belgian Tervurens have medium-length double-layered coats that shed seasonally. These coats require a few times a week of brushing to remain healthy. Brushing will help remove dirt, loose hair, and prevent mats and tangles from forming. You would need to do the brushing daily during the shedding season. This is also great in terms of creating a strong bond with your Terv. Baths can be given at least once a month, depending on how dirty or smelly he gets. Just make sure to clean their ears regularly to prevent ear infection. Nails should be kept short, too, if you don’t want to cause pain and discomfort to your dog.
- Exercise: Belgian Tervurens are working dogs, which makes them naturally active. They need their regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. This also helps in making them well-behaved inside your homes. If you’re an active person, take him with you for a hike, run, bike, or swim. If you’re not, then long walks will do. You can also let him play in the backyard, but make sure that your fence is secured. You can also have him participate in canine sports so he can showcase his skills.
- Health: Belgian Tervurens are generally healthy dogs. However, as dog owners, it’s essential to know what health conditions affect them the most, so you know how to prevent it. Bone diseases are most common in dogs of this size. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are the best examples of these diseases, so it’s essential to keep them exercised. Progressive retinal atrophy and epilepsy are also common to the breed. We recommend you let your dog take screening tests to detect certain diseases early. You can also meet one of your dog’s parents to know what existing conditions your dog might have.
- Lifespan: The life expectancy of Belgian Tervurens is 12-14 years.
Famous Belgian Tervurens
- Tom and Poes: The breed’s foundation
- Miss: One of Tom and Poes Belgian Tervuren litters
- Milsart: The first Belgian Tervuren champion in 1907
- Kyle: A Belgian Tervuren who played the role of Wellard in a BBC soap opera, EastEnders
Fun Facts about Belgian Tervurens
- The Belgian Tervuren originated from Belgium and is one of the four Belgian herding dog breeds.
- They were named after a Belgian village, Tervuren.
- They were developed by Corbeel, a worker from Tervuren.
- Other than being herding dogs, Belgian Tervurens are also used as police dogs.
- The first AKC herding champion was a Belgian Tervuren dog.
- They were recognized by AKC as a separate breed in 1959.
Check Out Other Herding Dog Breeds:
Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, Bearded Collies, Beaucerons, Belgian Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, Bergamasco Sheepdog, Berger Picards, Border Collie, Bouviers des Flandres, Briards, Canaan Dog, Cardigan Welsh Corgis, Collie, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs, Finnish Lapphund, German Shepard, Miniature American Shepherd, Norwegian Buhunds, Old English Sheepdog, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs, Puli, Pumi, Pyrenean Shepherd, Shetland Sheepdog, Spanish Water Dog, Swedish Vallhunds