Tervueren
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1959
- Lifespan: 12 – 14 years
- Size: Large
- Energy: High
- Recommended Crate Size: 42" dog crate* to 48" dog crate* (depending on your pet's measurements).
Return to main Dog Crate Size Breed Chart.
Introduction
The Tervuren, or Tervueren, has various classifications. It is classified under several breed standards: as a breed in its own right, as well as in others, as one of several acceptable variations of the Belgian Shepherd Dog.
Since 1959 in the United States, the AKC recognizes it under the name Belgian Tervuren, while prior to 1959, the Belgium Tervuren was shown as the Belgium Sheep Dog.
The Belgian Tervuren is known as the Chien de Berger Beige in its original country. What makes the difference in its variety is its coat color and length as long-haired other than black compared to the Malinois with its short coat, the Groenendael with its long black hair, and the wirehaired Laekenois.
The Tervueren got its name from the Belgian village named Tervuren, the home of M. F. Corbeel, an early devotee of the breed. Mr. Corbeel bred the fawn colored "Tom" and "Poes" which commonly considered the foundation couple of the breed, to produce the fawn-colored "Miss". In turn, Miss was bred to the black "Duc de Groenendael" to produce the famous fawn "Milsart", who in 1907 became the first Tervuren Champion.
Breed
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Tervuren in 1959. These high energy dogs are known as highly energetic and intelligent dogs. It needs lots of challenging play and jobs to keep them occupied. Such jobs can be agility, obedience, herding, tracking, flyball, or protection work. Thus what makes Tervuren found working as SAR (Search and Rescue) dogs whose jobs are finding avalanche victims or missing people.
If Tervuren is not made busy, it tends to be hyperactive. It is a loyal and protective dog and tends to be aware of new people. In addition to smart, another plus of the Tervueren is its perfect trainability.
In Canada, it is recognized as a variety of the Belgian Shepherd (Belgian Shepherd Dogs were called Belgian Sheepdogs before 2005). The Belgian Tervuren is one of four Belgian herders. Their appearance looks so similar that they were once recognized as a single breed.
The four Belgians are characterized by a proudly carried head, an elegant and muscular frame, an insatiable work drive, and an alert and intelligent demeanor. The Belgian Tervuren's coat is more profuse on males. Also, the males run faster than females.
Appearance
The Tervuren is classified as a square-proportioned and medium-sized dog. Males stand between 24 and 26 inches and weigh approximately 56 lb. Females are finer and smaller. It is recognized by its thick double coat, generally mahogany with varying degrees of black overlay including a black mask. A small patch of white on the chest is sometimes found, as well as white tips on the toes.
The Tervuren may also be grey or sable, but this may be penalized in the show ring in some countries according to the standard of the registering body. Belgian Tervuren is one of four Belgian herders. However, the big difference is found in the coat type: Belgian Sheepdogs (longhaired, black), Tervs (longhaired, “blackened” fawn or red), Laekenois (Wirehaired), and Malinois (shorthaired).
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide feed formulated to large-sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a healthy, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
As already known, the Tervuren has a double, thick coat similar to the Groenendael. Routine brushing is needed to remove loose undercoat. However, the fur is not prone to matting but occasionally they can get hairballs. A properly textured Tervuren coat is slightly hard, laying flat against the body.
It naturally sheds debris and dirt, but seeds and burrs may stick to the feathering on the legs. The Tervuren only needs minimal trimming and cosmetic products. Brushing, bathing, and trimming the fur on the feet with scissors is good grooming routines to emphasize their tight, cat-footed shape. Products that alter the coloration of the coat and masking are not allowed in the ring.
Exercise
Plenty of training and exercise are highly recommended. Their high-activity level and intelligence can be a challenge for owners who are less active and do not understand their need to work.
Belgians will be easy to train and are suitable for first-time owners who want their dogs to listen and obey their instruction.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends a 42" dog crate* up to the 48” dog crates* for most adult Tervueren.
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.
