Belgian Shepherd Dog Groenendael

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Belgium originally recognised eight different standards for the Belgium Shepherd Dog and in Britain only in recent years have the four varieties been shown together.

The elegant Groenendael is a muscular black dog, solid but not heavy, and very agile, with a proud carriage.

The body is squarely proportioned. The triangular ears stand erect and the muzzle is long and tapering.

The coat is very full, moderately long, with a ruff around the neck and extra feathering on the underside, legs and tail. There is a dense undercoat.

The face and lower legs are covered with short hair. A little white on the chest, chin or toes is permitted in the standard. The long feathered tail reaches at least to the hocks.

The brown eyes are almond shaped and the nose is black. The chest is neither broad nor narrow, but is deep, reaching to the elbow. The hindquarters are muscular, without looking heavy. The front legs are very straight and parallel to each other, with round cat-feet. Dewclaws may be removed from the front legs and should be removed from the back legs. The muzzle tapers, but is not excessively pointy.

The skull is flat and parallel to the plain of the muzzle. The lips should be tight. The teeth should meet in a scissors or level bite.

Temperament: Loyal, Powerful, Active, Intelligent, Affectionate, Dominant

Other names: Groenendael shepherd, Belgian Groenendael

Health Problems: This hardy, healthy breed has no major health concerns. Some minor concerns that have been seen are epilepsy, skin allergies, eye problems, excessive shyness, excessive aggressiveness and occasionally hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.