Belgian Sheepdog

Published: March 4th, 2016 Last updated: August 17th, 2022 by Kyle J. Larson

Average size and lifespan

Height: 2ft 0in - 2ft 2in
Weight: 60-75lbs
Lifespan: 11 - 132 Years

Behavior

Affection4/5
Kid-Friendly3/5
Stranger-Friendly2/5

Dog-Friendly3/5
Barking Amount3/5

Care

Grooming Difficulty3/5
Shedding Amount3/5
Easy to Train5/5

Can Be Alone3/5
Exercise Need4/5

Environment

Cold Tolerance4/5
Heat Tolerance3/5

Apartment-Friendly3/5

Belgian Sheepdog Information

If you want an elegant, watchful, proud dog, the Belgian Sheepdog is for you. This breed has an amazing history: In World War I, they played a major role in helping soldiers on the battlefield, served as message carriers and even pulled machine guns. With this background, it makes sense that these pups perform well in sports and are great guide or rescue dogs.

The Belgian Sheepdog can be completely black or black with white markings and needs weekly brushings. Dogs of this breed excel when they have a duty to perform. If you bring this dog into your home, rest assured that he is easy to train, gets along well with others and will serve as a loyal protector.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!

Breed FAQs

Can Belgian Sheepdogs be apartment dogs?

Belgian Sheepdogs aren't ideal for apartments, but might be able to live there successfully if there are enough opportunities to find larger spaces nearby to play.

Can Belgian Sheepdogs be left alone?

While Belgian Sheepdogs prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Belgian Sheepdogs good with kids?

Belgian Sheepdogs can do fine with kids. They will require some monitoring and training to make sure they get along and react well to unpredictable behavior.

Are Belgian Sheepdogs friendly with strangers?

Belgian Sheepdogs tend to be uncomfortable with strangers. They will require extra training effort to socialize them with those outside their family.

Do Belgian Sheepdogs get along with other dogs?

Although Belgian Sheepdogs will mostly get along with other dogs, they may have some issues. They can typically be dealt with by socializing them with other dogs.

Do Belgian Sheepdogs bark a lot?

As far as dogs go, Belgian Sheepdogs bark an average amount. You can expect them to bark to alert you, get your attention, or when there are strangers or other dogs.

Do Belgian Sheepdogs shed a lot?

Belgian Sheepdogs shed a medium amount. They will have seasonal shedding, but aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Belgian Sheepdogs need a lot of grooming?

Although Belgian Sheepdogs require a medium amount of maintenance to keep their coats healthy. Simple tasks like brushing and bathing will suit this breed.

Do Belgian Sheepdogs need a lot of exercise?

The Belgian Sheepdog has a good amount of energy and will need to be exercised with some walks and play to keep them happy.

Are Belgian Sheepdogs easy to train?

The Belgian Sheepdog is smart and extremely trainable. They will learn commands quickly and love the bond of training with their owner.

Can Belgian Sheepdogs handle cold weather?

Belgian Sheepdogs do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they'll do well in colder climates.

Can Belgian Sheepdogs handle hot weather?

Although Belgian Sheepdogs can tolerate hot conditions, be careful not to expose them for too long.