Monday 2 January 2012

Belgian Laekenois









The Belgian Laekenois is one of, and
probably the oldest of, four related varieties
of Belgian Shepherd Dogs. The Laekenois
originated in the mid- to late 1800s in Flandres,
where the dogs herded sheep and guarded flax
fields. In .....


 the early 1900s, the Brussels police force
and Belgian army used these versatile dogs.
The Laekenois stands 22 to 26 inches tall and
weighs between 40 and 80 pounds, with females
smaller than males. The head is strong, the eyes are
almond-shaped and dark brown, and the ears are
upright and large. The body is as long as it is tall
at the shoulder. The tail is long. The coat is wiry
and can be fawn to mahogany, usually with a
touch of black.
Grooming the weather-resistant wire coat is not
difficult. It should be brushed twice a week.
The Laekenois is a very active, high-energy
breed. Vigorous daily exercise is very important;
without exercise or a job to do, this breed will get into trouble. Long walks are great, but she will
also need a jog alongside a bicycle, an agility training session, or a fast game of fetch.
Early socialization is necessary, as the breed is reserved with
strangers. Early training that continues into adulthood will not
only teach household rules and social manners, but will give the
dog mental stimulation. These alert, intelligent dogs were bred
to work and will not be happy unless they have a job to do.
They also excel at canine activities and sports, including agility,
obedience competition, herding trials, and flyball.
The Laekenois are watchful and protective. They are affectionate
with their people but tend to bond more closely with
one family member. They can be good with older children but
will tend to try to herd them. They can be good with smaller
pets if raised with them but, again, will try to herd cats. Health
concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye and thyroid
problems, and epilepsy.

BREED IN BRIEF

Registries: AKC FSS, UKC,CKC
Occupation: Herder
Size: 22 to 26 in tall; 40 to80 lbs
Longevity: 12 to 14 years
Exercise: Vigorous dailyexercise
Training: Easy; needs to work
Grooming: Easy





No comments:

Post a Comment