Belgian Shepherd · Groenendael — size comparison

The Groenendael is the long-haired black variety of Belgian Shepherd. It has a light, almost square build, erect ears and a long muzzle. Abundant hair forms a neck ruff and fringes on the legs and tail. It moves lightly and nimbly, with longer hair swaying at each step.

In the late nineteenth century Belgian breeders began organising varied local herding-dog populations. Professor Adolphe Reul played an important role in defining shared features of the future breed. The black variety's name relates to Groenendael and breeding there. Today it shares a standard and herding ancestry with the Malinois, Tervueren and Laekenois.

It is alert, active and highly attentive to human behaviour. It learns signals quickly and readily engages in concentration tasks. It can be reserved with new people while forming a close bond with its handler. Its sensitivity also makes it notice tension and unclear communication; energy should not be mistaken for indifference to how it is treated.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec i wymiary — FCI
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia