Belgian Tervuren Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Belgian Tervuren is the long-coated, mahogany-and-black member of the four Belgian shepherd varieties. It is elegant, intelligent and sensitive, and it combines the working drive of its relatives with a flowing coat and a strongly devoted nature.

Origins and appearance

The variety is named for the Belgian village of Tervuren. Tervurens are medium to large, square and athletic, with a long, straight, double coat in rich fawn to mahogany with black overlay and a black mask, a ruff around the neck and a plumed tail. The expression is alert and refined.

Temperament

They are intelligent, loyal and sensitive. They bond very closely to family and can be reserved with strangers. They are alert and protective. They have a herding drive and may nip or chase. They need company and work and can become anxious or destructive when left alone.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, plus mental work. They excel at herding, obedience, tracking, agility and protection sports. A secure fence is essential.

Training

They are very trainable but sensitive. Use positive, consistent methods and early socialization. Teach impulse control and an off switch. Avoid harsh corrections, which can cause fear.

Coat and grooming

The long double coat needs brushing a few times a week and daily during seasonal shedding. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Epilepsy. See seizures and epilepsy in dogs
• Hip and elbow dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
• Autoimmune conditions, including thyroid disease
• Cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs

Living with a Belgian Tervuren

They suit active, experienced owners with space and time. They do not suit people who are away all day.

A typical day

A Tervuren wants a long outing, training, rest and a second activity. Evenings are for relaxing near family. They thrive on routine.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bright and sensitive. Begin socialization, handling and training. Teach calmness. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, grooming tools, training and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, harsh training, skipping socialization and leaving the dog alone.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, elbow and eye tests, epilepsy history and the parents' temperaments.

A sensitive, shadow-like companion

Tervurens often follow their person from room to room. This closeness is endearing, but it can turn into anxiety when the dog is left. Teach calm separations early, practice short absences and provide chew toys and exercise before you leave.

Coat care in practice

The Tervuren's coat is less matted than some long-coated breeds but still needs attention behind the ears, on the ruff and on the feathering of the legs. A pin brush and comb used in sections prevents knots, and a weekly check of the armpits and thighs is worthwhile.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Tervuren suits experienced, active owners who want a sensitive, elegant working breed. It may not suit casual owners. For the short-coated cousin, see the Belgian Malinois.

The takeaway

Belgian Tervurens are elegant, sensitive and driven, and they need exercise, training and company.