Posts tagged "belgian sheepdog"

Name: Belgian Sheepdog, aka Belgian Shepherd Dog

Personality: The Belgian sheepdog shares all the positive traits of its close cousin, the Belgian Malinois (loyalty, intelligence, alertness and trainability), without the overly intense temperament. In describing the breed standard, the Belgian Sheepdog Club of America says that the dog "should reflect the qualities of intelligence, courage, alertness and devotion to master. He should be observant and vigilant with strangers, but not apprehensive. With those he knows well, he is most affectionate and friendly, zealous of their attention, and very possessive."

Grooming: "Because of its abundant coat, the Belgian sheepdog requires attentive grooming," according to BreederRetriever.com. They recommend a thorough brushing and combing of the coat daily, or twice daily during shedding season. The site also suggests trimming the hair that grows between claws on the Belgian sheepdog's paws.

Common Health Issues: Belgian sheepdogs are considered to be healthier than average compared to other breeds, says BreederRetriever.com. Most typically, Belgian sheepdogs might suffer from the common ailments that plague all dogs. That means that as they age, developments may include dysplasia, allergies or disorders relating to the skin, eyes and thyroid.

Name: Belgian Malinois

Personality: As you might expect of the official dog of the United States Secret Service, the Belgian Malinois has an almost unparalleled drive to learn, work and please its owner. As long as it's well-trained, the Malinois is friendly; otherwise, its restlessness might prove destructive. The American Kennel Club describes the Malinois as an "alert, high-energy breed," while the American Belgian Malinois Club Web site says, "Whatever they do, they do to the maximum: whether that be work, play, or just adoring you, their master." Both clubs note that, during its first two years of life, the Belgian Malinois may act even more overly exuberant, goofy, out of control or even emotional.

Grooming: Grooming doesn't present an issue for this breed most of the time. Says ABMC Belgian Malinois Rescue, "Malinois are essentially natural dogs and very low-maintenance. Ears, tail, and dew claws are fine as is; no cropping is necessary. Very little grooming is needed; however, Malinois shed profusely twice a year."

Common Health Issues: Thyroid problems, epilepsy, cataracts, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and pannus are all health problems that are associated with the breed, yet overall, the Malinois is considered to have less health issues than its close-looking cousin, the German shepherd. Also, selective breeding has reduced the prevalence of most of these conditions.