History of the Belgian Laekenois Breed
Of the four types of Belgian sheepdogs, the Belgian Laekenois is the rarest. In fact, in many places, including the United Kingdom, the four sheepdog types (consisting of the Laekenois, the Groenendael, Malinois, and the Tervuren) are considered to be one breed. But since 1959, the American Kennel Club has recognized three of the types (the Groenendael, the Malinois and the Tervuren) as separate breeds, but the Laekenois has never gained recognition by the AKC. As with the other Belgian sheepdog types, the Laekenois was bred from working dogs. It is said that the dog was first developed to serve as a guard dog to watch over fields in Antwerp, supposedly where fine linens were bleached in the sun. This breed was quite popular in the time of Queen Marie Henriette. However, the Laekenois does not enjoy this type of favor today. In fact, it is the least popular of the four Belgian sheepdog breeds. Very rare and sometimes difficult to find, the Laekenois is known for its intelligent and protective nature. Currently the Laekenois is used in the areas of law enforcement, search and rescue, bomb and drug detection, and therapy for the disabled, ill, or elderly.
Size and Appearance of the Belgian Laekenois Breed
With a sturdy, well-proportioned body, the Belgian Laekenois features straight front legs and muscular hind quarters. The front and back feet are round and cat-like. The dark eyes offer an intelligent and alert expression, while the small ears are set high on the head. The tapered muzzle is not pointy, and it features a black nose. The teeth meet in a scissors or level bite. The unique wiry coat of this breed can measure up to two inches in length, and it comes in a variety of colors from fawn to mahogany, usually with a rich black overlay. A woolly or shaggy look is given to the muzzle and head because of the fringing of the coat. The long tail also has dense, bushy hair. The gait of the Laekenois is best described as easy, free, and smooth.
Belgian Laekenois Temperament
Intelligent and willing to please, the Belgian Laekenois also has strong protective and territorial instincts. If socialized from an early age, this breed will do quite well with children, making it an excellent pet. Because of the herding instincts, be careful introducing the Laekenois to other small non-canine pets. If correctly socialized, there shouldn't be a problem with cats. Sometimes this breed can try to dominate other dogs. Firm training should begin at an early age, preferably with an experienced master. This breed is very loyal to the family, and it truly enjoys human companionship. It is important to give this dog a job, because it can become destructive if it is bored. The Laekenois may tend to bond strongly with just one or two family members, and it may tend to chase, circle, and nip at people's heels, which is typical herding behavior.
Belgian Laekenois Recommended Maintenance
Light trimming of the rough, wiry coat of this breed should be done at least twice a year. It is important to remove dead or excessive hair on a regular basis. A coarse toothed comb is suggested for weekly grooming. Bathing should be done only when necessary, because it can remove the waterproofing properties of the coat if washed too often. This breed is known to shed little or no hair. An average-sized fenced-in yard is highly recommended for the Laekenois, so it has an opportunity to play and run. If plenty of exercise is provided, this breed will do fine in an apartment dwelling. Because of its history as a working dog, daily exercise is important to both the physical and mental well-being of this breed.
Belgian Laekenois Health
Life span: 12-14 years
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: eye problems, skin allergies,
Occasionally seen: hip and/or elbow dysplasia
Suggested tests: none
