Belgian Laekenois

 

Briefly about the breed

• Belgian Sheepdog, Laekenois, is a medium-sized dog with a harmonious build and dry musculature.
• It is alert, active and energetic, and combines the herding dog’s working ability with the watchdog’s qualities.
• The body proportions are square, and the length of the muzzle is equal to or slightly longer than half the length of the head.
• The fur varies between the varieties, but must be dense and of good structure to protect against the weather.
• Colors include black, red-yellow with black hair tips, and red-yellow with a hint of black hair tips.

Behavior and temperament

Belgian Sheepdog, Laekenois, is an alert and active dog with a lot of energy. It combines the herding dog’s working ability with the guard dog’s valuable qualities. It is always ready for action and will not hesitate to defend its master if necessary.At the same time, it has a lively and alert temperament without anxiety or aggressiveness. This is expressed through the body posture and the proud, attentive expression. During judging, it must be calm and fearless.

Appearance and proportions

Belgian Shepherd, Laekenois, has a medium-sized, well-proportioned body with a square shape. The chest reaches the elbows, and the length of the muzzle is equal to or slightly longer than half the length of the head. The head is carried high, long without exaggeration, straight, and well chiselled. The skull is moderately wide in proportion to the length of the head, and the forehead is rather flat than domed.The eyes are medium-sized, neither protruding nor deep-set, and have a direct, alert and intelligent expression. The ears are set high, rather small, distinctly triangular, and are carried straight up when the dog is alert.

Fur and color

Belgian Shepherd Dog, Laekenois, has a shaggy and dry coat that can appear shaggy. The fur is of the same length over the entire body, approx. 6 cm. It is shorter on the bridge of the nose, forehead and legs. The fur around the eyes and on the muzzle should not be so long that the shape of the head is hidden, but it should have a beard.The tail is without a fan. The color is reddish yellow with a hint of black hair tips (charbonné), mainly on the muzzle and tail. Some white is tolerated on the chest and toes.

Size and weight

Belgian sheepdog, Laekenois, has a height at the withers of approx. 58 cm for bitches and approx. 62 cm for male dogs. The weight varies, but is typically between 20-25 kg for bitches and 25-30 kg for male dogs.

The breed club’s advice

It is recommended to contact the breed club for Belgian Sheepdogs for further guidance and information about the breed. The breed club has expertise in the breed, and can provide advice and guidance to potential owners.They can also provide information about breeders and health aspects of the breed. It is important to be well informed and do thorough research before getting a puppy of this breed.Good luck!