The Belgian Tervuren presents a harmonious picture of elegance combined with strength, embodying the functional beauty of a working shepherd. This medium-to-large sized dog exhibits a square profile when viewed from the side, with body length from point of breastbone to point of buttocks approximately equal to height at withers. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh 55 to 75 pounds, while females measure 22 to 24 inches and weigh 45 to 60 pounds. The overall impression should be one of muscular power without bulkiness, athletic grace rather than heaviness.
The head is refined and chiseled, appearing neither heavy nor overly delicate, with a moderately long muzzle that tapers slightly toward the nose without becoming snipy. The stop is moderate, creating a smooth transition from forehead to muzzle. Eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and brown in color, ranging from light to dark shades, always conveying an intelligent, questioning expression. The darker the eye, the more preferred. Eye rims are black, matching the nose leather. Ears are triangular in shape, stiff and erect, set high on the skull and proportionate to head size. When alert, ears point forward and upward, contributing to the breed's attentive expression. The skull is flat rather than rounded, about as wide as it is long, while the topskull and muzzle are roughly parallel planes.
The body construction reveals the Tervuren's athletic capabilities. The neck is round, muscular, and slightly arched, flowing smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders. The topline remains level from withers to croup, demonstrating proper structure. The chest is deep but not broad, extending to the elbow, with well-sprung ribs that are neither barrel-shaped nor slab-sided. The loin section is short and strong, blending into a slightly sloped croup. Front legs are straight and parallel when viewed from the front, with strong bone and well-defined musculature. Rear legs show moderate angulation at stifle and hock, with sufficient bend to produce powerful, efficient movement. Feet are round and catlike, with well-arched toes and thick, resilient pads. Dewclaws may be removed.
The tail is strong at the base, carried low at rest with the tip forming a slight curve, and raised when the dog is in motion without curling over the back. Tail carriage provides insight into the dog's mood and confidence level. The Belgian Tervuren's movement is smooth, efficient, and tireless, demonstrating reach in front and drive from behind. At a walk, the dog moves with a level topline, and as speed increases, the legs converge toward a centerline of travel, reflecting proper structure and balance.
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the Belgian Tervuren is the magnificent double coat. The outer coat is long, straight, and abundant, with a harsh texture that provides weather resistance. The undercoat is dense and provides insulation. Hair is particularly abundant around the neck, forming a collarette that is especially pronounced in males. The backs of the forelegs are fringed with longer hair, and the hindquarters display abundant breeching. The tail is well-furnished with hair that forms a plume. Coat color is perhaps the Tervuren's most striking attribute, ranging from rich fawn to russet mahogany with a black overlay. The overlay means that the tips of each fawn hair are darkened with black, creating a beautiful shading effect most intense on the shoulders, back, and ribcage. The face displays a dramatic black mask, and the ears are largely black. Small white markings are permitted on the chest and toes.
Affection Level
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Extremely devoted to family members, forms deep emotional bonds
Good with Children
Excellent when raised with children and properly socialized; may herd young kids
Good with Other Dogs
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Generally friendly with proper socialization; same-sex aggression possible
Good with Other Pets
Can coexist peacefully when socialized early; may chase due to herding instinct
Playfulness
Highly playful and energetic, enjoys interactive games and activities
Energy Level
Very high energy requiring substantial daily physical and mental exercise
Trainability
Exceptionally trainable, learns quickly and excels in all dog sports
Intelligence
Highly intelligent with excellent problem-solving abilities and work ethic
Tendency to Bark
Moderate to high; alert barker that will vocalize to announce visitors
Amount of Shedding
Heavy seasonal shedding twice yearly; moderate shedding year-round
Grooming Needs
Regular brushing required, more intensive during shedding seasons
Prey Drive
Moderate prey drive; may chase small animals and vehicles