The breed of the Belgian Shepherd was definitively established in 1897, after a series of crosses between various specimens dedicated to grazing that began in 1891. On the other hand, the breed of the German shepherd began somewhat later, since it was not recognized as a German breed until 1899. Their beginnings were also as sheepdogs.
We therefore observe that both breeds started from common functions, shepherding, and in very close times and countries, Belgium and Germany. However, although their beginnings were similar, over the years both races have diverged.
For this reason on our site we will explain the main differences between the German Shepherd and the Belgian Shepherd.
Belgian Sheepdog Varieties
The Belgian Sheepdog consists of 4 different varieties with very different characteristics from each other in terms of their physical appearance, but genetically they are practically the same. For this reason they are all considered Belgian shepherd breed
There is even the circumstance that crossing a couple with the same phenotype, the litter is totally or partially with a totally different phenotype from its parents. The varieties of the Belgian Shepherd are:
- Groenendael Belgian Shepherd
- belgian shepherd laekenois
- Belgian shepherd malinois
- belgian shepherd tervueren
Groenendael Belgian Shepherd
This variety of dog Belgian Shepherd Groenendael is characterized by the black color of its entire coatHis hair is long and soft except for his face. A small white "tie" on the neck and chest (white spot) is tolerated in this variety.
Its usual measurements are 60 cms. up to the withers and about 28-30 kilos of weight. Females are slightly smaller. They live about 12-13 years; but there are known specimens that have exceeded 18 years.
Belgian Sheepdogs are not considered by experts to be a suitable breed as a first dog, as their inordinate need for activity requires a few unusual spaces and training fundamentals.
Belgian Shepherd Laekenois
The Belgian Shepherd Laekenois is absolutely different from the previous one. It is the oldest variety. Years ago, in addition to grazing, they were used to store the flax that was available in the fields for drying.
The appearance of the Laekenois Belgian Sheepdog is as follows: its size and weight is similar to the Groenendael, but its coat is rough and curlyIts colors are preferably in the range of browns. On his head and face he also has curls. Wearing a small tie is also allowed.
During both world wars he served as a messenger dog. The life expectancy of him is similar to the Belgian Shepherd Groenendael. Due to its level of activity, it is more appropriate that it lives in a rural environment, since in an urban environment this breed can suffer from neurosis if it cannot let off steam with large doses of active exercise.
Belgian shepherd malinois
The Belgian Shepherd Malinois comes from the Belgian city of Mechelen, from where it emerged in 1892. With characteristics of weight and size similar to the other Belgian shepherds, differs from them in that his hair is short and hard all over his body and face His color is within the range of brown. He is a beautiful looking dog
It is a very active dog that needs a lot of land to romp, since one of its characteristics is that it maintains the puppy mentality until it is 3 years old, and some dogs even up to 5 years. Which means that if he is not properly socialized and educated from day one, he can spend years eating the whole family's shoes, or causing similar damage. It is imperative that he be able to develop a great deal of activity to appease his temper.
It is precisely because of its temperament that it is used by armies and police around the world (including the German police). It is also valid as a guard, shepherd, service and defense, as long as it is trained for it by professionals Remember that training a dog to attack without knowledge is a very dangerous idea which can have multiple consequences.
It is not a recommended dog to live in an apartment, despite the fact that it is very affectionate with the family and especially with children. But since he is quite "brutote" and reckless he can inadvertently hurt the little ones.
Belgian Shepherd Tervueren
The Tervuren Belgian Shepherd comes from the city of Tervuren, a town where the first specimens of this beautiful variety of Belgian Shepherd were selected.
The morphology of this variety is very similar to that of the Belgian Groenenlandel, but its soft and long coat is brown tones with some blackish areas. The face is short-haired and fringed with a formidable beard that runs from ear to ear.
He is a very active dog used in surveillance, drug or bomb tracking, disaster relief, and advocacy. It integrates very well into families, as long as you have the capacity and space to train them and provide them with the extensive activity they need.
German shepherd
The German Shepherd traces its origins back to 1899. Its physical characteristics are well known, as it is a very popular breed.
It is a larger and heavier dog than the Belgian Shepherd, weighing up to 40 kg. It has a remarkable intelligence, being easier to train than the Belgian Shepherd In any case, it is a working dog; which means that he needs to carry out some type of physical activity such as a police dog, tracking in catastrophes or accompanying the blind
The German Shepherd's temperament is very balanced, as long as his genetic line is pure, as he is also probably the breed where inexperienced breeders have committed major fudges. A German shepherd who is treated like a lapdog is very likely to become neurotic and overly dependent on his owner. His life expectancy ranges from 9 to 13 years
