Belgian Laekenois
AKA: Chien de Berger Belge, Belgian Shepherd Laekenois
Description: One of the four Belgian shepherd dogs, the Laekenois has a unique wire coat that distinguishes it from the other breeds. It has a shaggy and woolly look because its coat can grow up to 2 inches long. The hair is dense and bushy on the tail.
Its body is sturdy, well proportioned, and muscular. The ears look small and set high on the head and the eyes are dark in contrast to the light hair color. The front legs are straight and the feet are round and cat-like. Dewclaws may be removed from the front legs and has to be removed from the hind legs. The skull is flat, the nose black, and the teeth meets in a scissors or level bite.
Dynamics: The Laekenois is the rarest among the four Belgian shepherd dogs. Like the other three, it is serious, smart, and obedient. It also has strong protective and territorial instincts. It needs patient and extensive training. It does not pay to be harsh to the Laekenois because it will only be uncooperative in this case.
The Laekenois has to be socialized from its puppyhood to socialize well with children and people. Take extra care when introducing it to noncanine animals. They are instinctively protective and can be dominant with other dogs.
It is best for a Laekenois if it is given time, attention, and companionship. If left alone, this breed will find ways to amuse itself. It has lots of energy and needs to have something to do most of the time.
Breed Group: Herding
Weight: 55-65 lbs (24-29 kg)
Height: males 24-26 inches (61-66 cm), females 22-24 inches (56-61 cm)
Color: The Laekenois comes in a range from fawn to mahogany with black overlay.
Country of Origin: The Laekenois originated from Belgium. It was once the favored sheep tender and the “dog to have” but is now the rarest among the four Belgian Sheepdogs.
Activities: The Laekenois has lots of energy to dispose of and needs a lot of exercise. It is accustomed to an active outdoor life and prefer to be off a leash and kennel.
Grooming: Grooming the Laekenois takes special attention. The rough, wiry coat has to be trimmed about twice a year. Excess hair should be removed and do not trim to closely to the skin. Use a coarse-toothed comb for grooming. Bathe only when necessary.
Other Info: The Laekenois has a life expectancy of 12-14 years. It has no major health concerns but it is still prone to skin allergies, eye problems, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Excessive shyness or excessive aggressiveness is not also good for the Laekenois to have. The Laekenois will do fine in an apartment but it has to be taken out on exercises and daily walks. It is only moderately active indoors and will sometimes sleep outdoors. This breed prefers cool climates, but will be okay to other conditions.
