{"id":17559,"date":"2014-10-06T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2014-10-05T21:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/?p=17559"},"modified":"2025-09-23T19:24:59","modified_gmt":"2025-09-23T16:24:59","slug":"laekenois","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/en\/breed-laekenois","title":{"rendered":"Laekenois (Belgian Shepherd)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Laekenois<\/strong>, the rarest of the four Belgian Shepherd varieties, is a truly unique dog with a distinctive harsh, ‘wired’ coat. This gives them a somewhat dishevelled, yet incredibly appealing appearance. More than just a pretty face, the Laekenois is an exceptionally athletic, robust, and resilient companion. Historically bred for guarding and herding livestock, this breed has retained its working qualities to this day. Unlike its Belgian ‘cousins’ such as the Groenendael<\/a>, Tervuren<\/a>, or Malinois<\/a>, the Laekenois stands out for its particular strength of character, making it an ideal protector. These dogs do not tolerate loneliness well and form deep bonds with their families, often recognising only one owner as their undisputed leader. To strangers, the Laekenois can appear stern and serious, always ready to defend its territory and loved ones. Discover more on Tvaryny<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Laekenois: A Brief Overview of Key Breed Characteristics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Laekenois\"\/<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Origin<\/strong><\/td>Belgium<\/td><\/tr>
FCI Classification<\/strong><\/td>Group 1. Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs). Section 1. Sheepdogs. With working trial.<\/td><\/tr>
Year of Breed Recognition (approx.)<\/strong><\/td>Late 19th century (standard approved in 1897)<\/td><\/tr>
Life Expectancy<\/strong><\/td>10\u201314 years<\/td><\/tr>
Height at Withers (according to FCI)<\/strong><\/td>Males: 62 cm; Females: 58 cm; Permitted deviations: \u22122 cm, +4 cm<\/td><\/tr>
Weight (according to FCI)<\/strong><\/td>Males: approx. 25\u201330 kg; Females: approx. 20\u201325 kg<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

History of the Laekenois Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The history of the Laekenois breed is intricately intertwined with the history of Belgian sheep farming and the Belgian royal family. This variety of Belgian Shepherd was definitively established at the end of the 19th century, although dogs of a similar type had existed in the region much earlier. The name “Laekenois” originates from the Royal Castle of Laeken (Ch\u00e2teau de Laeken)<\/span>, located near Brussels. It was here that these dogs were the favourites of Queen Henriette of Belgium, wife of King Leopold II. The Queen highly valued their harsh, tousled coat, which provided excellent protection against the elements while guarding sheep and flax fields bleached in the sun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Laekenois is considered the oldest and rarest of the four Belgian Shepherd types. Initially, these dogs were primarily used as herding and guard dogs. Their vigilance, courage, and stamina made them indispensable helpers for farmers. Thanks to their unique coat, which provided excellent camouflage and protection, Laekenois were particularly popular in the Antwerp and Brussels regions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the end of the 19th century, Professor Adolphe Reul, a veterinarian and one of the founders of the Belgian Canine Club, played a key role in the classification and standardisation of Belgian Shepherds. In 1891, the first inspection was held in Cureghem (Brussels), where 117 dogs were gathered. It was then that the division into types based on coat structure and colour began. The first standard for three varieties (long-haired, short-haired, and rough-haired) was developed in 1892. The Laekenois, as the rough-haired type, was officially recognised as one of the first.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, two World Wars caused significant damage to the Laekenois population. Dogs were used on the front lines as messengers, medics, and guards, and many perished. After World War II, the breed was on the brink of extinction. Thanks to the efforts of enthusiasts and breeders, the population was gradually restored, but the Laekenois has remained the least numerous among Belgian Shepherds. Even today, this breed is rare outside Belgium and certain European countries. The American Kennel Club (AKC) only recognised the Laekenois in 2020, which attests to the breed’s long journey to worldwide recognition. Despite its scarcity, the Laekenois is in no way inferior to its ‘relatives’ \u2013 the Tervuren<\/a>, Malinois<\/a>, or Groenendael<\/a> \u2013 and in some qualities, such as strength of character and protective instincts, it even surpasses them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What a Laekenois Looks Like: Detailed Description of Appearance and Breed Standard<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Laekenois is a harmoniously built, proportionate medium-sized dog that combines elegance and strength. Its appearance exudes alertness and readiness for action. The most distinctive feature of the Laekenois is its coat<\/span> \u2013 harsh, dry, coarse to the touch, creating an impression of slight dishevelment, but without curls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The head<\/strong><\/span> of the Laekenois has clean lines, is dry, of medium length, and proportionate to the body. The forehead is flat, and the stop (transition from forehead to muzzle) is moderate. The muzzle gradually tapers towards the nose leather, which must be black. The lips are thin, tightly fitting, with black pigmentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The eyes<\/strong><\/span> are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and predominantly dark brown. The gaze is lively, intelligent, and inquisitive. The eye rims are black.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ears<\/strong><\/span> are set high, triangular in shape, erect, and firm. Their size is proportionate to the head. They should not be too large or floppy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The body<\/span><\/strong> is strong but not heavy. The topline is straight. The withers are pronounced. The back is short, strong, and muscular. The loin is short, broad, and muscular. The croup is slightly sloping. The chest is moderately broad, deep, reaching the level of the elbows. The ribs are well sprung.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The tail<\/strong><\/span> is of medium length, set at a medium height. When at rest, it is carried low, with the tip slightly curved at hock level. In action, it is raised higher but should not curl or be carried over the back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The limbs<\/strong><\/span> are strong, with well-developed musculature. The forelegs are straight and parallel. The shoulder blades are long and obliquely set. The upper arms are muscular. The elbows fit closely to the body. The hind legs are powerful but not heavy, with well-defined angulations. The thighs are broad and muscular. The hocks are set low. The paws are round, ‘cat-like’, with tightly clenched toes and hard, dark pads. The claws are strong and dark in colour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The coat<\/strong><\/span> is the Laekenois’s hallmark. It should be harsh, coarse, dry, and tousled all over the body. The coat length is approximately 6 cm over most areas of the body, but shorter on the muzzle (with the exception of characteristic ‘whiskers’ and ‘beard’), ears, and lower parts of the limbs. The presence of an undercoat is essential for protection against the elements. The coat on the muzzle forms characteristic eyebrows, whiskers, and a beard, which gives the dog a special expression. The coat should not be curly, silky, or excessively long.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The colouring<\/span><\/strong> of the Laekenois is predominantly fawn or reddish with a characteristic ‘overlay’ (darkening of the hair tips), especially on the muzzle and tail. Small white markings on the chest and toes are permissible but undesirable. The main colour is a warm hue, reminiscent of rye bread. Excessive darkening, making the dog almost black, is considered a fault.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Laekenois Character: Temperament, Behaviour, and Interaction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Laekenois<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Laekenois is a dog with a strong, determined, and resolute character. They are known for their exceptional vigilance, bravery, and inherent guarding instinct<\/span>. This makes them excellent protectors for home and family<\/strong>. A Laekenois is always on alert, ready to warn of approaching strangers with a loud bark and, if necessary, to defend their loved ones and territory. However, a properly trained Laekenois should not display unwarranted aggression; its reaction is always appropriate to the situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These dogs are extremely loyal to their family<\/span> and form deep attachments to their owner. They crave human companionship and do not tolerate prolonged solitude well. A Laekenois needs close contact with people and active participation in family life. If left alone for too long, they may become bored, leading to destructive behaviour or excessive barking. They generally get along well with children, especially if raised together, showing patience and playfulness. However, due to their herding instinct, young children should be taught proper behaviour around dogs, and interactions should always be supervised by adults.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Laekenois are very intelligent and astute dogs<\/span>; they learn quickly but can display stubbornness and independence. They require a consistent, patient, yet firm and confident owner who can establish clear rules and boundaries. Early socialisation and training<\/strong> are critically important for developing a well-balanced and obedient dog. Their energy and intelligence make them excellent candidates for various dog sports, such as agility, obedience, and protection work. In many ways, their trainability and energy are similar to such recognised canine intellectuals as the Border Collie<\/a>, though the Laekenois may be more independent in decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regarding other animals, a Laekenois can cohabit with them if properly socialised from a young age. However, their strong chase instinct can pose a problem for smaller pets, such as cats or rodents, if the dog is not taught appropriate behaviour. Towards unfamiliar dogs, a Laekenois may be suspicious or dominant, so it’s important to supervise their interactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is important to remember that the Laekenois, like other Belgian Shepherds, is a high-energy breed<\/strong><\/span>. They require regular and intense physical exercise, as well as mental stimulation. Long walks, running, games, and training will help keep them in good shape and prevent the development of behavioural problems. This is not a dog that will be content with short lead walks; it needs space to move and an outlet for its energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Laekenois Health: Typical Ailments, Genetic Predispositions, and Prevention<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Laekenois<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Laekenois is generally considered a healthy and robust breed<\/span> with an average life expectancy of 10-14 years. Previously circulated information about an abnormally short lifespan (2-4 years) is erroneous and does not correspond to the reality for the breed as a whole. Like many other breeds, especially sheepdogs, the Laekenois may have a predisposition to certain genetic diseases. Responsible breeders conduct health testing on their breeding dogs to minimise the risk of transmitting these diseases to offspring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most common health problems that may affect the Laekenois include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n