Breed History - Belgian Shepherd Dog
A long haired, fawn to mahogany colored herding dog of Belgium, one of the four recognized Belgian Sheepdogs. He bears closer resemblance to the Groenendael than to his other two cousins and is believed to have a history that runs parallel to that fraternal breed. It is accepted that all of the four Chiens de Berger Belge descend from common stock, and that their physical conformation has remained essentially identical to each other for over a century, with of course the exception of coat type and color.
M. Donhieux is noted as the founder of the Tervuren variety. Brewer M. Corbeel crossed two black tipped fawn long haired dogs. One of the litter, a bitch named "Miss", was purchased by Mr. Donhieux and crossed to the renowned Picard d'Uccle. (Picard d'Uccle is also one of the foundation stock which created the Groenendael.) The result of this cross became the prototype for the Tervuren.
During the 1940's the breed neared extinction until the 1950's when an attractive Willy de la Garde Noir brought revival to the breed. The Tervuren today maintains a steady following on the Continent, as well as in Great Britain and North America.
Hinderously close in resemblance to both the German Shepherd and the Groenendael, the Tervuren has not attained the popularity and rating that it commands. The Tervuren is agile and multi-talented and is used as a police, military and guide dog. He is among the most delightful of the shepherding breeds. He should be led with a strong hand - owners find him affectionate and responsible once trained.
A dignified dog with fine proportions and proud carriage of head - conveying an overall impression of graceful strength. Muzzle of medium length, tapering gradually towards the nose, which is black with well flared nostrils. The ears are distinctly triangular, stiff and erect; they are set high, of moderate length and well rounded at the base. Neck is well muscled, without dewlap, and broadens to the shoulders. The overall body is powerful but elegant. Chest is deep and well let down; ribs moderately well muscled. Hindquarters well muscled and powerful without over-angulation; hocks well let down.
Height: 22-26 inches (56-66 cm). Weight: 62 pounds (28 kilograms). The coat, which ranges in color from red to fawn to grey, with the characteristic black overlay, is double pigmented, wherein the tip of each light colored hair is blackened. The tail is medium length.
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