Belgian Shepherd Dog

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History/Origin
At the turn of the century, the breed of Belgian shepherd was accepted as a certified pedigree. It particularly became popular as a guard dog in America. During the First World War, the breed showed exemplary performance as guard dogs, delivery dogs, and work dogs. Thereafter, the breed enjoyed widespread admiration and popularity among the public.

The famous Belgian shepherd dog or Belgian sheepdog originally referred to four known breeds of dog: the Groenendael, the Laekenois, the Tervueren, and the Malinois. In 1959, all known Belgian shepherd varieties were sorted into individual breeds; the black-coated Groenendael breed consequently recognized as the Belgian shepherd dog.

Description
The Belgian shepherd dog is a graceful and well-proportioned dog. It sports an exceptionally thick coat under a rich, outer layer of long and straight protective hair. Despite its rich coat, the dog's glistening black color does not hide its bright and inquiring expression.

Aside from its physical appearance, the Belgian shepherd dog is also known to exude a kind of assurance not particularly seen in other breeds. It is attentive, nimble, and struts around confidently.

Because of its even, determined, and easy gait, this type of dog is considered capable of herding for extended periods of time. When herding, it tends to run in an arc instead of going straight.

Temperament
Constantly vigilant and always on the go, a Belgian shepherd dog is a strong and passionate dog. It is good-natured but is also equally watchful of its territory and family. While it may form exceptionally strong bonds with its known family, this dog remains detached to outsiders; it may even be willful and hostile toward other animals and dogs.

The dog may be said to be sharp-witted and obedient, but it is also individualistic. Being extremely clever, a Belgian shepherd dog is raised and reared to be responsive to all things that are happening in the surroundings.

As a puppy, the Belgian shepherd dog hates being left alone. It would require constant socializing and would want to be constantly around their human companions. The Belgian shepherd dog is the sort that would prefer to be actively moving about instead of just sitting or lying around, waiting.