Groenendael – Belgian Shepherd

A lover of devoted friends and striking appearances, the Groenendael may be the breed for you. This gorgeous black-coated Belgian Shepherd is well-known for its perceptive demeanor. These dogs, who were originally bred for protection and herding, are extremely devoted to their families and diligent workers.

The Groenendael belongs to a wider breed of Belgian Shepherds, each distinguished by their own characteristics. The Groenendael is distinguished by its graceful gait and long, flowing fur. This breed is most content when it is with its humans, enjoying activities like playing in the yard or going on adventures together. It thrives on companionship.

Groenendaels are renowned for their intelligence and trainability in addition to their good looks. They can pick up a wide range of commands and tricks, and they do well in obedience training. Because of this, they make excellent working dogs, but their happiness depends on mental stimulation. Maintaining this breed’s level of engagement requires consistent training and interactive play.

If you’re considering adding a Groenendael to your family, be prepared for a loyal friend who will always be by your side. With the right training, socialization, and love, you’ll find that this breed is not just a pet but a true member of the family.

Breed characteristics

Breed class: forty thousand rubles.

One of the four varieties of Belgian Shepherds, the Groenendael is distinguished by its eye-catching black coat, intelligence, and loyalty. These dogs make wonderful family pets and working dogs because they are not only stunning but also thrive on mental challenges and company. Groenendaels are naturally protective and have strong herding instincts, so regular exercise and training are necessary to keep them happy and well-mannered. This breed infuses enthusiasm and love into any home, making it the perfect choice for those seeking a playful companion or a loyal protector.

History of the origin of the species

Shepherds are the ancestors of Belgian shepherds, who first appeared in antiquity. In 1650, the first mentions were noted.

There are four types based on the coat’s length and color:

1. Groenendael – long or medium hair of black color.
2. Tervuren – long hair with a reddish or gray-fawn shade.
3. Laekenois – hard hair, color – sandy, sable.
4. Malinois – short coat with a brown-charcoal color.

In Belgium, the "Groenendael" variant first surfaced in 1879. Nicholas Rose, the proprietor of "Chateau Groenendael," is the founder. He established a kennel in 1893 where Petit and Picard, two long, thick-haired black dogs, were housed. They are the parents of the new breed’s first born litter. Rose chose the best puppy from him, Duke, and went on to choose other puppies based on his preferences. The variety’s primary benefit became her inherited luxurious hair.

The Groenendael was first registered on March 12, 1898. It received recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1912 as well as the International Cynological Organization in 1903.

Dogs have been taken to competitions and used in services since the turn of the 20th century. Their unique body composition and proportions allow them to maintain top athletic form for a decade or more. Their rapid acceleration is accompanied by their lightning-fast direction changes and effortless obstacle avoidance.

Belgians were heavily involved in both World Wars I and II, serving as four-legged scouts, guarding prisons and settlements, and providing assistance at the front.

Distinctive features

In 1907, the breed standard was accepted. The dog has a proportionate body and muscles, and it is graceful, tenacious, and powerful. An adult representative’s body weight is typically 25–35 kg, or 55–65 cm.

• Head oblong shape, the skull is small, corresponds to the body. The length of the head is the same as that of the muzzle. Muzzle at the end it is smoothly narrowed, the forehead is tall and rounded, the cheeks are flat. Expressive facial expressions. Black nose with wide -open nostrils. Lips are thin, dry, tightly fit the jaw.
• Eyes dark, almond -shaped, medium sizes, eyelids with black pigment.
• Ears elongated, highly planted, standing, triangular.
• Jaw developed well, the teeth are large, white. Direct or scissor bite.
• Physique Sports, massive building, strong. The chest is deep, the back is wide, muscular. The ribs bend smoothly. The neck is elongated, loosen distinctly.
• Tail planted on the base well, fluffy, medium length, slightly curved. With movements rises.
• Limbs straight, long, powerful. Rounded paws with black pads and claws. Active, free movements.
• Woolycoat dense with long, straight hairs of medium hardness, structure at a good level. Dense, silky undercoat. Shortened on the skull and below the legs.
• Skin elastic, tight-fitting.
• Color – uniformly black.

Photo of an adult dog

Photo of puppies

Character and behavior features

Groenendaels are curious, peaceful, and joyous creatures. Few people can claim to possess so many natural abilities and admirable traits. Dogs are sociable and friendly, have a strong guard instinct, are able to serve, and can handle any task.

Belgian canines possess outstanding personalities. They are devoted, gregarious, intelligent, perceptive, and loving. Because of their sensitivity, they are able to read family members’ emotions and moods with ease and are prepared to support one another through trying times. Generally speaking, they are devoted to just one family member while still being kind, loving, and amiable to the entire family (especially the kids). They have mistrust for outsiders. They bravely defend themselves when they perceive danger.

Although Grunendals are independent, they pick up on their owner’s instructions fast and execute them flawlessly. People who lack the time and energy to give their dogs the attention they need shouldn’t use them. When left alone, they become bored, fearful, and lonely. They prefer to be in constant communication with people.

Belgian canines demand courtesy and deference. They are sensitive and will not put up with rudeness or cruelty directed at them. Since members of the breed are considered "owners," territorial disputes with other animals result from this.

Advantages

The benefits of the Groenendael are emphasized as follows:

• Impressive appearance;
• Strong immunity and good health;
• Excellent mental abilities, good memory, intelligence;
• High physical performance;
• Easy to train;
• Good nature, playfulness, love for children;
• Endurance, activity, vigilance;
• Qualities of a protector, guard skills;
• Good results in sports competitions;
• Unpretentiousness in care and maintenance;
• Loyalty, devotion;
• A wonderful companion and assistant.

Disadvantages

The following are some drawbacks of the breed:

1. Intolerance of loneliness.
2. Hyperactivity, need for regular physical work.
3. Requirement for constant grooming;
4. High cost.

Video about the breed

Care and maintenance

A sizable private home with a large, open space outside is the ideal location for raising this breed, ideally with an aviary that is specially designed for training.

Since Groenendael has a nice "fur coat," he can withstand wind, rain, and frost, so he can stay outside. In this instance, you must supply a warm booth so that he can hide from the summer heat and the winter snow. The dog needs freedom to run around without any obstacles; you cannot keep it on a leash.

Keeping a Belgian Shepherd in an apartment is not recommended because they require a lot of space and frequent exercise. The only things that can help with adaptation are regular, long-term walks and sports.

Exercise, commands, long walks, and an active lifestyle all help to keep an animal in good health and shape. Groenendael doesn’t need complicated care, but you still need to follow hygiene guidelines.

Nutrition

A well-rounded diet that promotes comfort, healthy growth, and a high quality of life is crucial for dogs. The body needs a daily supply of essential nutrients, which include a complex of vitamins, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, as the diet’s composition affects the condition of the coat. Veterinarians recommend giving natural products to animals, particularly puppies.

Given their propensity for obesity, guinea pigs shouldn’t be overfed. It is not recommended to eat sweets, legumes, canned foods, or baked goods.

Nutritional rules that are not followed have a detrimental effect on health and can lead to caries, flatulence, and other unpleasant side effects. Dogs that are adults only eat twice a day, while puppies eat five times a day. Every dog needs access to clean water all the time.

Health

Good health and a robust immune system are the unique characteristics of the Groenendael. Life expectancy is 10–12 years on average and up to 18 years at most.

Vaccinations

The pet receives vaccinations to promote health and guard against illness. First vaccinations are administered at 1.5 months, followed by those given after 2 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year. After that, the process is done once a year.

The dog is routinely examined for intestinal parasite infection.

Diseases

The "Belgian" is prone to several hereditary diseases, though they are not often sick:

• epilepsy;
• dysplasia of the hip or elbow joints;
• obesity;
• allergic reactions;
• eye diseases (inflammation, conjunctivitis);
• hypothyroidism;
• tendency to cancer;
• disorders of the endocrine system;
• mental disorders, depression.

Walking

Because they are strong, energetic, and active dogs, shepherds need daily walks more than anything else. They walk for at least one and a half to two hours twice a day. They employ training components in addition to running, climbing obstacles, and playing with balls, sticks, and rubber toys. They are very skilled at agility, frisbee, and obedience.

A mature dog must run 1.5 km or more every day.

Coat care

Grooming the coat is a challenge because it needs to be soft, shiny, and appealing. In the summer, when shedding is at its worst, the coat is combed daily with a furminator and once or twice a week with a special, seldom toothed comb. Initially, all of the ensuing knots are unraveled, and tangles are eliminated. It is important to brush in the direction that hair grows to avoid damaging and ruining the fur.

The breed standard states that the hair should not be trimmed. Between the pads and fingers, the hair can be slightly cropped. Pellets form in these areas, causing discomfort and pain.

A shepherd should only be bathed two or three times a year with specialized shampoo. The coat should be gently smoothed after the procedure. Regular washing processes cause the coat to become overly thin, dull, and lustrous.

Mating

In 1.5–2 years, Belgian dogs reach sexual maturity, and by 3 years, they are fully formed. It is not appropriate to schedule mating before two years.

When the female is stroked on the back, she waves her tail to indicate that she is ready. It is advised that the couple, in the event that they lack experience, get in touch with a certified dog handler who can explain all the subtleties.

• After 1.5-2 days, mating is carried out again.
• Estrus in bitches occurs once every 9-12 months and lasts 3 weeks.
• Duration of pregnancy – from 56 to 72 days.

Prior to mating, both dogs are brought to the boy’s territory and given time to get to know one another and smell each other. Due to their size, Groenendael dogs are challenging to manage. It is preferable to speak with an expert.

Key points in training

Groenendael is intelligent, adaptable, simple to train, and obedient to instructions.

Early childhood education starts here as children learn about the world and gradually acquire new sounds, smells, and territories. Socialization at a young age is crucial for education.

Puppies that have their development neglected grow up to be misbehaving, incompetent, irrational, and capable of causing property damage.

• From 9 weeks to 4 months, 15-20 minutes are devoted to physical and mental exercises, starting with simple commands.
• From 4 to 6 months, the walk is at least half a kilometer, the duration of classes is half an hour.
• After 6 months, the training time increases to 40 minutes.

When the dog reaches one year of age, it should run 1.5 km or more each day. Teaching a large dog the commands "place," "next to," and "no" at an early age is crucial. Being intelligent, Belgians pick things up quickly.

It is not possible to lessen the loads’ duration or intensity. In order to successfully tame the animal, the owner needs to build rapport with it and earn its respect and trust. Reward the pet with treats, praise, and approval for their hard work. Since the shepherd is a sensitive animal, training sessions should not involve physical force or acts of intimidation.

Breed Name	Groenendael
Origin	Belgium
Size	Medium to large
Coat	Long, thick, and black
Temperament	Intelligent and loyal
Exercise Needs	High; needs daily activity
Trainability	Very trainable; eager to please
Good with Kids	Yes, protective and playful
Health Issues	Hip dysplasia, eye problems

A striking member of the Belgian Shepherd family, the Groenendael is endearing and intelligent. These dogs are renowned for their loyalty and adaptability in addition to their attractive looks. Groenendaels are excellent at many tasks, including herding, search and rescue, and just being a devoted family member.

This breed is unique in that they are eager to please. Their love of company and intellectual stimulation makes them ideal for busy homes. These dogs need regular training and socialization because, in the absence of a task, they may become nervous or bored. A Groenendael who feels challenged and involved is happy.

Groenendaels have striking black coats and captivating eyes, and they also possess a strong protective instinct. They become great watchdogs because they are constantly aware of their surroundings. But when it comes to family, their tender side comes through, demonstrating that they can be both gentle companions and benefactors.

All things considered, the Groenendael is an excellent breed for those with the time and energy to devote to it. They show you love and loyalty in return for your commitment. The Groenendael may be the ideal pet for you if you’re ready for a companion that is as smart as they are gorgeous.

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