Belgian Tervurens are a medium to large breed, typically reaching a height of 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 40 to 83 pounds. Females are smaller, standing 22 to 24 inches tall and weighing around 40 to 60 pounds. 

Genetics, diet, and overall health during growth stages contribute to their final size. Proper nutrition and supportive exercise help ensure they reach their full potential size, while their lineage can also influence whether they lean towards the larger or smaller end of the spectrum.

Belgian Tervurens typically stop growing in height by around 12 to 18 months, but they may continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they’re about two years old. Like many medium to large breeds, their growth rate slows down after the first year, with most of their height being reached in that time. After they’ve reached their full size, it’s usually a good idea to switch them over to adult dog food to support their maintenance needs rather than rapid growth.

Belgian Tervurens typically live between 12 and 14 years, which is fairly consistent with the other Belgian Shepherd breeds (the Belgian Malinois, Belgian Laekenois, and Belgian Groenendael). 

Individual longevity can vary depending on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall care. Veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight play crucial roles in maximizing their lifespan. Additionally, providing mental stimulation and regular physical activity helps keep them healthy and happy throughout their lives.

Belgian Tervurens come in shades of mahogany or fawn with a black overlay, giving them a distinctive and striking appearance. The face typically features a black mask, and black-tipped fur and tail are also common.

The most common color combination is a rich mahogany base with a black overlay, which accentuates their elegant, wolf-like look. Some Tervurens may also have lighter or darker variations within this color range, but the black overlay and mask are signature traits of the breed.

Belgian Tervurens shed a moderate to heavy amount, especially during their seasonal shedding periods in the spring and fall. They have thick, double coats consisting of a long, straight, and somewhat harsh outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat that provides insulation. 

Routine grooming is essential to managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. They benefit from brushing at least a few times a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting. During heavy shedding seasons, daily brushing is often needed. 

Additionally, occasional baths can help keep their coat clean and reduce excess shedding. Consistent grooming not only helps control shedding but also keeps their coat looking its best and supports skin health.

Yes, Belgian Tervurens can be good with kids, especially those they were raised alongside. They are loyal and protective, often forming strong bonds with family members, including children. 

However, because of their high energy and herding instincts, they may try to herd kids or be a bit too exuberant in play. Additionally, they can be quite sensitive like many shepherd breeds, so it’s especially crucial to teach children how to gently interact with dogs, and how to understand and respect when they need space. It’s also important to teach your dog how to interact gently with children.

Yes, Belgian Tervurens can be good with other dogs, but they may also be prone to territorial or defensive behaviors. For this reason, early socialization is key for Belgian Tervurens; it helps them become comfortable and learn how to interact appropriately with other dogs. By exposing them to a variety of dogs in positive and safe environments from a young age, they can become more comfortable and confident around a range of pups, which can reduce any territorial tendencies. With consistent socialization and positive experiences, Tervurens are more likely to develop into well-rounded dogs who can enjoy the company of other canines.

Yes, Belgian Tervurens can be good with cats, especially if they are raised alongside their feline counterparts from an early age. If they haven’t been raised together, this breed’s strong herding instincts may kick in, leading them to chase or try to herd cats. However, with gradual and positive introductions, they can learn to coexist peacefully. 

Scent introductions are a great first step — letting the dog and cat become familiar with each other’s scent before meeting face-to-face. This can help reduce tension and anxiety. When they do meet, positive reinforcement should be used to encourage calm and friendly behavior. For the safety of everyone involved, it’s best to keep your Belgian Tervuren on a leash and ensure the kitty has high perches and exit routes if they become overwhelmed until both pets are calm and comfortable around each other.

Yes, some Belgian Tervurens bark a lot. They are alert and protective, so they’ll readily bark to alert their family of anything unusual or to communicate excitement or frustration. 

While their barking can be useful for warning you of potential dangers, it can become excessive if they aren’t well socialized or provided with enough daily exercise, mental enrichment, companionship, and restorative rest.

Yes, Belgian Tervurens can be good family dogs, provided they are well socialized. These pups can be so affectionate and devoted to their family members and often thrive on their companionship. However, they can be timid or defensive around strangers, so early socialization is crucial to helping them feel safe and comfortable with guests or outside the home. 

They are an active and intelligent breed and need a lot of exercise and mental enrichment, so an active family is best.

Yes, most Belgian Tervurens are easy to train with positive reinforcement. These dogs are quick learners and thrive on mental challenges, so they usually easily pick up cues. 

Positive reinforcement is the best approach for training Belgian Tervurens and helps build a strong bond between you and your dog. When they associate following a cue with something positive — like treats or playtime — they’re more likely to repeat that behavior. This method not only encourages learning but also helps maintain the Tervuren’s confidence and enthusiasm for training sessions.

Just keep in mind that even if a certain dog breed is known to be easy to train, training any dog requires a long-term commitment.

Belgian Tervurens are extremely smart dogs, ranking among the top breeds when it comes to trainability and problem-solving skills. Their sharp minds, combined with their enthusiasm to engage with tasks, make them quick learners who thrive on mental and physical challenges. This intelligence, paired with their natural agility, also makes them stand out in various dog sports.

Belgian Tervurens excel in a range of dog sports, particularly those that require quick thinking and precision. They are stars in rally competitions, where their ability to learn and follow cues shines, and agility, thanks to their speed, athleticism, and gracefulness. They also do exceptionally well in herding trials, which taps into their natural instincts. These athletic dogs are also often seen competing in tracking and even canine freestyle, where their intelligence and versatility really come into play.

Yes, many Belgian Tervurens can be affectionate and enjoy cuddling, but it often depends on their individual personality, socialization history, and how they’ve been raised. 

These dogs often form strong bonds with their families, so many Tervurens do enjoy close, affectionate moments with their pet parents. However, they also have a strong independent streak, so while some might love to snuggle up on the couch, others might prefer to stay close by without snuggling up. Additionally, they can be wary of strangers, and a rescued Belgian Tervuren may need plenty of time and space to warm up to their new adopters.

No, Belgian Tervurens aren’t typically service dogs. These pups can be quite sensitive, wary, and watchful, which can cause them to feel anxious or defensive while navigating public spaces. 

Of course, an individual Belgian Tervuren who is extremely well socialized from an early age and excels in service dog training may be a good candidate, but it’s not common for this breed to thrive as service or assistance dogs.

Yes, Belgian Tervurens are often friendly with their family and can be friendly with strangers if they are thoroughly socialized and have a more confident personality. Under-socialized Belgian Tervurens, however, are much more likely to feel wary and reserved around strangers, and some may always be a bit reserved with unfamiliar people, even if they are well-socialized. They are best suited for adopters who understand their needs.

Yes, Belgian Tervurens are relatively rare compared to more common breeds like German Shepherds or Golden Retrievers. They are one of the less well-known varieties of Belgian Shepherds, which contributes to their rarity. While they have a devoted following among those who appreciate their intelligence and work ethic, they’re not as widely recognized or found as some other breeds, making them a special choice for those who want a unique and loyal companion.

Belgian Tervurens are from Belgium, specifically the village of Tervuren, where they got their name. They were originally bred as herding dogs in the early 19th century and are one of the four breeds of Belgian Shepherds. These dogs are known for their intelligence, agility, and endurance, making them great companions for active pet parents.

The Belgian Tervuren is one of four breeds of Belgian sheepherding dogs. The others are the Groenendael, Laekenois, and Malinois. The only genetic differences between these breeds are coat length and texture. In terms of temperament, Tervurens are often a bit more affectionate, whereas Malinois feature an intense drive and focus. Both breeds are highly intelligent and energetic, excelling in various work and sports activities.

No, Belgian Tervurens and German Shepherds aren’t directly related, but they share some similarities because both breeds were developed for herding and working purposes. They come from different regions — Tervurens from Belgium and German Shepherds from Germany — and have distinct breed histories. However, their roles as herding dogs and later as versatile working dogs give them a comparable appearance and skill set, which is why they can sometimes be mistaken for each other.

Yes, Belgian Tervurens, like all dog breeds, can have inherited health issues, but they tend to be a healthy and long-lived breed.

Belgian Tervurens may be prone to diseases such as:

• Hip dysplasia: This condition involves the improper fit of the hip joint in the socket, which can lead to arthritis or discomfort.

• Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this affects the elbow joint, potentially causing pain and lameness.

• Epilepsy: A neurological disorder that leads to recurrent seizures, requiring ongoing management and medication.

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disease that causes gradual vision loss and eventual blindness.

• Von Willebrand disease: A genetic bleeding disorder affecting blood clotting, leading to excessive bleeding.

• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, this serious condition involves the stomach twisting, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

• Hemangiosarcoma: This malignant cancer of the blood vessels often affects the spleen or heart. Early detection is critical for treatment options.

By being aware of these conditions, providing routine vet care, screenings, preventatives, and early treatment you can help ensure your Belgian Tervuren remains healthy and happy for as long as possible.

No, Belgian Tervurens are not hypoallergenic because they have a thick double coat that sheds regularly, which can spread dander, a common pet allergen. Their shedding increases seasonally, which can exacerbate allergies in the fall and spring. 

To minimize pet allergens in the home, routine grooming, including brushing and occasional baths, can help reduce loose hair and dander. Using air purifiers, frequently vacuuming with a HEPA filter, and keeping the home well-ventilated also help reduce allergen levels. It’s also helpful to wash your hands after handling your pup and set up a pet-free zone in the house.