Dog Breeds - Belgian Laekenois Dog

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
Bedlington Terriers are known for their affectionate nature, especially towards their family members and individuals they are familiar with. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy spending quality time with them. Bedlingtons are typically not aloof or distant; instead, they often treat everyone they know like a close friend. They have a friendly and loving disposition, making them suitable for families and households where they can receive ample attention and affection.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
A breed's ability to tolerate and remain patient with children's actions, as well as their overall family-friendly disposition is important factors to consider. It is crucial to ensure dogs are always supervised when interacting with young children or those who have limited experience with dogs regardless of their age.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
It is essential to consider the overall friendliness exhibited by a breed towards other dogs. While it remains necessary to supervise dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds inherently display a greater inclination to form amiable relationships with other canines both in domestic and public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds can vary significantly. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing to manage the shedding, and their fur is more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Additionally, living with a high-shedding breed may necessitate more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean and free of loose hairs.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming requirements for each breed encompass bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance. It's crucial to evaluate your available time, patience, and budget before embarking on the grooming journey.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The propensity of a breed to drool is an important consideration. For individuals who value cleanliness, dogs that leave trails of drool on their arm or create sizable wet stains on their clothes may not be the most suitable option.
COAT TYPE +
Wiry
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting, while others are generally enthusiastic about meeting new people whenever an opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed demonstrates towards play can vary, even beyond their puppyhood. Certain breeds exhibit a lasting desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They maintain their playful nature and actively seek opportunities for interactive play. On the other hand, some breeds are content to spend most of their time relaxing on the couch with their owners and may not display as much interest in vigorous play as they age.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Some breeds possess a strong inclination to alert their owners when strangers are present. These breeds are more prone to reacting to potential threats, whether it is the arrival of the mailman or the sight of a squirrel outside the window. However, they are also likely to become more accepting of strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can encompass various aspects, including alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines and other day-to-day variables. Some breeds are known to be more adaptable and can adjust relatively well to different environments and schedules. They may exhibit a greater tolerance for changes in noise levels or weather conditions. Other breeds might be more sensitive or resistant to change, requiring a more gradual and structured approach when introducing new elements into their lives.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things can vary across breeds. Certain breeds demonstrate a natural inclination to please their owners and are generally eager to learn, making the training process relatively easier. They are motivated by making their owners proud and are receptive to instruction. However, other breeds may possess a more independent or stubborn nature, preferring to follow their own desires rather than adhering to training commands. This can make training more challenging and require additional patience and perseverance from the owner.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed can vary significantly. High energy breeds typically possess a great enthusiasm for physical activities and thrive on regular exercise. They are ready for action, constantly seeking opportunities for running, jumping and playing throughout the day. Meeting their exercise needs is crucial to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. On the other hand, low energy breeds have a more relaxed and calm demeanor. They are content with a moderate amount of exercise and are generally happier to lounge around and enjoy a snooze on the couch. It's important to find a balance that suits the specific needs of each breed to ensure their overall well-being.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization, including barks or howls, can vary among breeds. Certain breeds tend to be more vocal, expressing themselves through barking at various stimuli such as passers-by or birds outside the window. They may have a tendency to bark more frequently in general situations. On the other hand, some breeds are more selective in their vocalization, barking or howling only in particular situations or when they have a specific reason to alert their owners. Additionally, there are breeds classified as "barkless," but they may still use other sounds or vocalizations to communicate or express themselves. It's important to consider the breed's vocal tendencies and their compatibility with one's living situation or personal preferences.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, which have historically been bred for specific tasks or jobs, often possess qualities such as decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. These breeds typically have a higher need for mental exercise and stimulation. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may exhibit behaviors aimed at keeping their minds occupied, which may not align with the owner's desired projects. It is important to engage these breeds in activities that challenge their intellect, such as puzzle toys, interactive games, training sessions, or tasks that mimic their original purpose. Meeting their mental stimulation needs is crucial to prevent boredom and to promote their overall well-being.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

Bedlington Terriers are known for their affectionate nature, especially towards their family members and individuals they are familiar with. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy spending quality time with them. Bedlingtons are typically not aloof or distant; instead, they often treat everyone they know like a close friend. They have a friendly and loving disposition, making them suitable for families and households where they can receive ample attention and affection.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

A breed's ability to tolerate and remain patient with children's actions, as well as their overall family-friendly disposition is important factors to consider. It is crucial to ensure dogs are always supervised when interacting with young children or those who have limited experience with dogs regardless of their age.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

It is essential to consider the overall friendliness exhibited by a breed towards other dogs. While it remains necessary to supervise dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds inherently display a greater inclination to form amiable relationships with other canines both in domestic and public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds can vary significantly. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing to manage the shedding, and their fur is more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Additionally, living with a high-shedding breed may necessitate more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean and free of loose hairs.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming requirements for each breed encompass bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance. It's crucial to evaluate your available time, patience, and budget before embarking on the grooming journey.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The propensity of a breed to drool is an important consideration. For individuals who value cleanliness, dogs that leave trails of drool on their arm or create sizable wet stains on their clothes may not be the most suitable option.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Wiry

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting, while others are generally enthusiastic about meeting new people whenever an opportunity arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed demonstrates towards play can vary, even beyond their puppyhood. Certain breeds exhibit a lasting desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They maintain their playful nature and actively seek opportunities for interactive play. On the other hand, some breeds are content to spend most of their time relaxing on the couch with their owners and may not display as much interest in vigorous play as they age.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Some breeds possess a strong inclination to alert their owners when strangers are present. These breeds are more prone to reacting to potential threats, whether it is the arrival of the mailman or the sight of a squirrel outside the window. However, they are also likely to become more accepting of strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change can encompass various aspects, including alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines and other day-to-day variables. Some breeds are known to be more adaptable and can adjust relatively well to different environments and schedules. They may exhibit a greater tolerance for changes in noise levels or weather conditions. Other breeds might be more sensitive or resistant to change, requiring a more gradual and structured approach when introducing new elements into their lives.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things can vary across breeds. Certain breeds demonstrate a natural inclination to please their owners and are generally eager to learn, making the training process relatively easier. They are motivated by making their owners proud and are receptive to instruction. However, other breeds may possess a more independent or stubborn nature, preferring to follow their own desires rather than adhering to training commands. This can make training more challenging and require additional patience and perseverance from the owner.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed can vary significantly. High energy breeds typically possess a great enthusiasm for physical activities and thrive on regular exercise. They are ready for action, constantly seeking opportunities for running, jumping and playing throughout the day. Meeting their exercise needs is crucial to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. On the other hand, low energy breeds have a more relaxed and calm demeanor. They are content with a moderate amount of exercise and are generally happier to lounge around and enjoy a snooze on the couch. It's important to find a balance that suits the specific needs of each breed to ensure their overall well-being.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, which have historically been bred for specific tasks or jobs, often possess qualities such as decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. These breeds typically have a higher need for mental exercise and stimulation. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may exhibit behaviors aimed at keeping their minds occupied, which may not align with the owner's desired projects. It is important to engage these breeds in activities that challenge their intellect, such as puzzle toys, interactive games, training sessions, or tasks that mimic their original purpose. Meeting their mental stimulation needs is crucial to prevent boredom and to promote their overall well-being.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black & Tan	018
Fawn	082
Mahogany	128
Red Sable	155
Cream Sable	348
Fawn Sable	338
Red	140
Cream	076

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Mask	004

About The Breed

The Belgian Laekenois is a vibrant and agile breed, known as one of the four native dogs of Belgium. While sharing similarities in body and temperament with the Malinois, Shepherd, and Tervuren, it stands out due to its distinct coat color, texture, length, and regional origin.Compared to its closely related Belgian herding counterparts, namely the Belgian Sheepdog, Malinois and Tervuren, the Laekenois is considered the rarest. This sturdy and robust dog boasts a rough and tousled coat, which comes in various shades such as red, fawn, or gray tones. Darkened fur around the muzzle highlights the keen watchfulness emanating from its dark almond-shaped eyes. The Belgian Laekenois is dedicated to protecting its owner and property. While cautious around strangers, it demonstrates affection and friendliness towards familiar individuals. To maintain its coat's health, regular brushing and occasional bathing are necessary. Being a working breed, daily exercise is crucial to keep the Laekenois content and physically stimulated.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A BELGIAN LAEKENOIS

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Belgian Laekenois Dog: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The Belgian Laekenois is generally considered a robust and healthy breed. Responsible breeders prioritize the health of their breeding stock and conduct screenings for various health conditions to ensure the well-being of the puppies. As with all breeds, it's important to provide routine healthcare for a Belgian Laekenois. Regularly checking their ears for any signs of infection and cleaning them as needed helps prevent ear-related issues. Additionally, maintaining good dental hygiene by regularly brushing their teeth promotes oral health. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and a balanced diet are essential components of keeping a Belgian Laekenois healthy and happy throughout their life. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Elbow Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation Dentition Exam Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Indeed, in addition to regular weekly grooming, occasional baths are sufficient to keep a Belgian Laekenois clean and in optimal appearance. Grooming sessions can serve as a great opportunity for bonding between you and your dog. It is important to trim the Laekenois' strong and fast-growing nails on a regular basis to prevent overgrowth, splitting and cracking. This can be done using a nail clipper or grinder. To prevent the buildup of wax and debris and potential ear infections, regular checks and cleaning of the ears are necessary. Additionally, brushing their teeth regularly helps maintain good oral hygiene. By following these grooming practices, you can ensure that your Belgian Laekenois remains well-groomed, healthy, and looking its best.

Exercise

	Finding the perfect owner entails recognizing that the Belgian Laekenois breed thrives in an active environment and dislikes being idle or isolated outdoors. Laekenois dogs are eager to please their humans and yearn for companionship. To maintain their happiness, they require an engaging lifestyle filled with mental and physical stimulation. Upon welcoming a new Laekenois puppy it becomes crucial to prioritize early socialization, ensuring they have regular opportunities to interact positively with others. These working dogs tend to be reserved towards unfamiliar people, so early socialization helps them develop better comfort levels with strangers.

Training

	Participating in socialization and puppy-training classes holds significant importance as it fosters positive behavior addresses potential issues at an early stage and enhances the connection between a puppy and their owner. The great news is that Belgian Laekenois are highly intelligent and have a strong desire to please their owners, making them highly receptive to training. These dogs quickly grasp the concepts and commands taught to them further facilitating a successful training experience.

Nutrition

	It is recommended to provide the Belgian Laekenois with a high-quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared at home under the supervision and approval of a veterinarian. The diet should be suitable for the dog's specific age group, such as puppy, adult, or senior. As some Laekenois dogs are prone to weight gain, it is important to monitor their calorie intake and weight level. While treats can be helpful during training, overindulgence can lead to obesity. It is essential to familiarize yourself with which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided. If you have any concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet, consulting with a veterinarian is advisable. Additionally, ensure that clean and fresh water is accessible to your dog at all times.

Historiography

In September of 1891, the Belgian Shepherd Dog Club, known as the Club du Chien de Berger Beige was established in Belgium to study the characteristics of native dogs. They identified a consistent type of dog with uniform body structure and temperament but differing coat types, including variations in color, texture and length. During the early 20th century, Belgian breeders and owners advocated for the recognition of additional varieties based on coat color and regional origins. The fawn rough-haired variety was given the name Laekenois, named after the town of Laeken. These intelligent and versatile working dogs quickly gained popularity in other countries.

Originally, the Laekenois was primarily used for herding and guarding flocks, with an additional duty of protecting linen left out to dry in the fields. Their enthusiastic work ethic and quick learning abilities made them well-suited for these tasks. They later served as messenger dogs during the First and Second World Wars, and their population dwindled during that time. However, dedicated breeders made significant efforts to restore the Laekenois variety, while preserving the intelligence, type and structure typical of the Belgian Shepherd Dog. Today, the Laekenois is admired for these qualities and is still capable of herding, guarding, and protecting both livestock and their owners' property. Their adaptability, attentiveness, intelligence and inquisitive nature make them alert and responsive to their owners' commands. While they may be reserved with strangers they exhibit a strong bond and loyalty to their families.