History of the Belgian Tervuren Breed
Of the four Belgian shepherd breeds, the Belgian Tervuren is the one that features a long coat in any color except black. Like its relatives, this breed was used for herding and guarding, and when it was previously grouped with the other Belgian shepherds it was also known as the Continental shepherd. In Belgian, the Tervuren was called the Chien de Berger Beige. Its name comes from a village called Tervuren where M. F. Corbeel, an early breeder of this dog, lived. It is believed that Mr. Corbeel owned the fawn-colored dogs that are credited as the foundation of the Tervuren: Tom and Poes. This pair of dogs produced "Miss," - another fawn-colored example, and she was bred with a black Groenendael which produced a famous specimen of the Tervuren: "Milsart" - the first Tervuren champion. According to records, the first Belgian Shepherd Specialty was held in May, 1892 in Cureghem, Belgium, and Duc II - another registered Tervuren - was the competition. History suggests that Duc II was also the model for a painting by A. Clarys dating back to 1890. Although 1918 brought the first registration of a Tervuren in the United States, the breed was not popular, and it died out before the Depression. It was practically recreated in the time following World War II, and it is said that puppies with long hair were born to a pair of Malinois. Breeders Rudy Robinson, Marge Coyle, and Robert and Barbara Krohn are thought to have been responsible for importing the Tervuren in 1953. It was in 1959 that the Belgian shepherd was officially divided into three separate breeds: the Malinois, the Laekenois, and the Tervuren. Many people consider the Tervuren to be the most refined of the three, and it is moderately popular.
Size and Appearance of the Belgian Tervuren Breed
Square in proportion, the Belgian Tervuren features long shoulders and well-muscled forearms. The straight front legs have an oval bone, and the rounded feet are cat-like with good pads and strong nails. The powerful hind legs feature broad, heavily-muscled thighs and slightly elongated back feet. The well-chiseled head has medium-sized, dark brown eyes that offer an intelligent, alert, and attentive expression. The triangular ears are stiff and held erect. The somewhat-pointed muzzle has strong and powerful jaws with strong teeth that meet in a scissors bite. The black nose has well-defined nostrils. The neck is quite long and muscular, and it arches slightly, tapering nicely into the body. The tail of the Tervuren is strong at the base, and it is held low when the dog is resting. The gait of this breed is best described as graceful yet lively. The coat allows the dog to adapt to extreme temperatures or climate. The long, straight guard hairs are abundant and rather harsh to the touch. The undercoat can be quite dense, and it is dependant upon the conditions of the climate. The color of the Tervuren usually runs from rich fawn to a deep mahogany with an overlay of black. Many times the hair is tipped in black. This breed is known to become darker as it ages. The face generally features a black mask and black ears.
Belgian Tervuren Temperament
A companion that you can depend upon, the Tervuren is considered to be an alert, energetic dog. It is generally an intelligent breed that is easy to train, despite its tendency towards independence. This breed may be aloof with strangers, and it may tend to be aggressive toward other dogs, as well as other animals. Because of its herding history, the Tervuren may nip at children's heels. Extensive socialization from the start is important to prevent shyness or sensitivity. Because of its unending energy, this breed is happiest when it has a job to do. Note that many dogs of this breed tend to bond strongly with just one or two people. If introducing a new pet into the household, take extra precaution to ensure correct socialization with the Tervuren. This dog will generally protect your family and property, but it is not likely to attack without warrant.
Belgian Tervuren Recommended Maintenance
Because of the long, double coat, the Tervuren should be brushed and combed at least two or three times a week, and more often during heavy shedding times. Be sure to check for mats on a regular basis, and keep mats clipped out before they get out of control. Pay special attention to the longer hair on the legs and on the outer ears. It is a good idea to trim the hair between the toes on a regular basis. The Tervuren is considered to be a constant light shedder, and males usually shed heavily once a year whereas females shed heavily twice a year. Because of its energy, this breed needs to engage in strenuous mental and physical activity on a daily basis, which can consist of work sessions, play sessions, or long walks. While an average-size yard is suggested, the Tervuren can live in an apartment as long as enough exercise is provided. Time spent off the leash in a safe area is important to this breed.
Belgian Tervuren Health
Life span: 10 - 12 years
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: epilepsy, skin allergies
Occasionally seen: CHD
Suggested tests: none
