The Belgian Tervuren is a medium-sized herding breed known for its intelligence, elegance, and versatility. One of the four varieties of Belgian Shepherds, alongside the Malinois, Laekenois, and Groenendael, the Tervuren originated in Belgium and was initially developed for herding and guarding livestock. Today, this breed is highly regarded not only as a herder but also as a companion and working dog in various roles, such as search and rescue, police work, and obedience competitions. Standing between 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing between 45 to 75 pounds, the Belgian Tervuren is characterized by its athletic and balanced build. The breed is easily recognized by its luxurious long double coat, which typically ranges in color from fawn to mahogany with black overlay and a black mask. The Tervuren’s erect ears, almond-shaped eyes, and intelligent expression give it an air of elegance and alertness, reflecting its lively personality. Belgian Tervurens are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts. They form strong bonds with their families and are naturally vigilant, making them excellent watchdogs. Although they are friendly and loving with their families, Tervurens can be reserved with strangers, which makes early socialization essential. Their intelligence and eagerness to work make them highly trainable, but they require consistent and positive training methods to reach their full potential. Daily life with a Belgian Tervuren involves plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. These dogs are energetic and thrive on regular exercise, such as long walks, jogging, and activities that challenge their intelligence and agility. Tervurens excel in various dog sports like obedience, herding trials, agility, and protection work. Their strong work ethic and need for mental engagement make them well-suited for families that can provide an active lifestyle. Caring for a Belgian Tervuren includes regular grooming to maintain their long, dense coat. Weekly brushing is necessary to prevent matting and reduce shedding, with more frequent grooming required during seasonal shedding periods. Regular maintenance of their ears, nails, and teeth is also essential to ensure their overall well-being. A balanced diet tailored to their activity level helps maintain their weight and energy. The Belgian Tervuren is generally a healthy breed but can be prone to certain genetic health conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and epilepsy. Regular veterinary checkups and responsible breeding practices help monitor and manage these risks effectively.