About the breed
Among the other 4 species of Belgian Shepherd Dogs, the Laekenois definitely stands out. He is not inferior to the rest either in physical strength or endurance, but has an amazing curly coat, which gives the dog an interesting, unusual look.
Laekenois is a shepherd dog, with all its inherent qualities, therefore, before you start such a pet, you should weigh all the pros and cons, yet we are not talking about a room, sofa dog.
Laekenois
The Belgian Shepherd Laekenois, originally from Belgium, is a versatile herding breed known for its protective nature and intelligence. With a wiry coat and alert expression, they excel at a variety of dog sports and activities. Belgian Laekenois are loyal and affectionate with their family but can be reserved with strangers. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive and benefit from early socialization and training to channel their natural instincts appropriately.
Breed at a Glance
- Origin: Belgium
- Size: Medium
- Weight: 55-77 pounds (25-35 kg)
- Head shape: Long
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Coat Type: Rough, wiry, and thick
- Colors: Reddish-brown, fawn, with black shading
- Temperament: Loyal, protective, intelligent, and alert
- Grooming Needs: Moderate; regular brushing to maintain the wiry coat
- Exercise Needs: High; requires daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Best For: Active families, experienced dog owners, and those looking for a working or guard dog
The Laekenois is one of the four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd, known for its strong work ethic, loyalty, and protective nature. This breed thrives in active households where it can channel its energy through tasks, training, or outdoor activities.
The standard of the breed
The Belgian Laekenois is characterized by its protective nature, intelligence and versatility. They have a wiry coat, an alert expression and a strong work ethic. Known to excel in various dog sports and activities, they require regular mental and physical stimulation. Loyalty and affection towards their family are also prominent traits of this breed.
The growth of the male Belgian Shepherd Laekenois varies from 60 to 66 cm, it weighs 25-35 kg, females are slightly smaller – 58-60 cm with a body weight of 20-26 kg. The standard describes the dogs as follows:
Exercise requirements
Compassion for the owner
Friendship with strangers
Energy level
Playfulness
With other pets
Characteristics of the breed
Family
Belgian Laekenois can form strong bonds with children when properly socialized and trained from a young age. They are generally gentle and protective, making them good family pets, but supervision is always recommended when interacting with young children.
The Belgian Laekenois can coexist peacefully with other pets and animals when raised together and properly socialized. However, their herding instincts may cause them to chase smaller animals, so early socialization and training are essential for harmonious relationships with other pets.
Physical qualities
The head is elegantly set, elongated, long, well defined.
The muzzle is rectangular, wedge-shaped, with a regular bridge of the nose, a smooth stop and thin lips. The jaws open well, with a full row of strong teeth forming a scissor or pincer bite.
Their ears are shaped like an equilateral triangle, set high and erect. The length of the head is proportional to the size of the dog, the ears are small to medium in size. The concavity of the ear has a well-curved structure at the base. The base of the ear does not extend below an imaginary line supposed to be drawn from the corner of the eye. Drooping ears are disqualifying patterns for the Laekenois breed.
The Laekenois have small, dark, almond-shaped eyes. Their eyelids are black and add depth to their gaze. The corners of the eyes contrast with the light feathers. They have a curious, lively, intelligent, questioning and alert expression and gaze.
White teeth are densely set in well-developed jaws. The standard provides for scissor and level bites (the latter being less preferred, but increasingly chosen by shepherds). The dental formula is complete. The absence of first premolars is not considered a fault.
Laekenois has a solid and proportionate body structure. The body description of the breed is often described as square. The length and height of the body are almost equal. The Belgian Laekenois has a muscular, well-built, agile, agile, strong and noble appearance. Although it has a solid and muscular structure, it does not appear heavy. The chest is not very broad, it is deep, sloping and extends to the elbow. The ribcage is arched at the top and surrounded by flat ribs on the sides. The back and waist are flat, broad, strongly muscled and short. The neck is slightly arched. The neck is slightly long, muscular and without a larynx.
The Laekenois has a medium length coarse metallic coat and its body is covered with hairs that can be over 6 cm (2 inches) long. The feathers are curly, hard, coarse and can reach up to 5 cm in length. An irregular appearance may appear due to this structure. The length of the hair is visible on all parts of the body. The hair around the eyes and around the mouth is not excessive. However, having a hard, coarse beard and a moustache on the mouth is a must. There are no visible feathers or extra feathers in the coarse tail feathers. The tail feathers create a brush-like appearance. Silky, soft hair is an undesirable structure for the breed.
Forelegs
The strong limbs of the shepherd have strong bones and well-developed muscles. The long shoulder blades and shoulders form a fairly wide angle for elbow movement. The forearms are surrounded by powerful muscles. Short pasterns lead to rounded paws with curved, tightly clasped toes. Durable claws have a rich dark pigmentation.
Hindlegs
Located perpendicular to the ground. Wide hips and lower legs are moderately muscular. In addition, the latter are sufficiently curved towards the hock joints. The presence of dewclaws is undesirable. The paws have an almost oval shape due to the compressed toes, which end in fleshy pads.
Le Laekenois a une couleur rougeâtre entrecoupée de blanc. Une teinte de fourrure plus foncée est acceptable sur le visage et la queue.
Lifespan
Standards & Classifications
The Belgian Laekenois is recognized by various kennel clubs around the world, including the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). These organizations have established standards and guidelines for the Belgian Laekenois breed, ensuring consistency in appearance and characteristics across regions.
FCI Classification
- Group 1: Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs).
- Section 1: Sheepdogs.
What to expect when taking care of a Laekenois
Taking care of a dog involves daily exercise, regular diet, grooming and veterinary care. Expect camaraderie, loyalty and joy, as well as responsibilities such as training, cleaning after them and the supply of a safe environment.
The ancestors of the Belgian shepherd dogs had surprisingly good health, but the breeding work has made its own adjustments, and the Belgians still have diseases that are transmitted from generation to generation. Among the most common pathologies, the following can be noted:
- Large joint dysplasia is an inherited disorder in which the hip bone does not fit properly to the joint. Pathology disrupts the gait of the animal; the dog feels pain and begins to limp. Large dogs are more likely to suffer from this disease.
- Eye conditions – usually cataracts or glaucoma, are sometimes genetic abnormalities that affect older dogs.
- Volvulus of the stomach can be either hereditary or acquired. In the latter form, the development of pathology is associated with malnutrition. This disease can lead to the death of the dog. To avoid this, it is important to give your pet a rest after a meal, without burdening it with work.
- Infertility – occurs in individuals of both sexes.
- Rapid physiological aging – dogs are already aging quite intensively, but with this phenomenon this does not happen by 9-10 years, but earlier – 5-7 years, the dog develops diseases inherent in older animals.
- The Laekenois is a wire-haired type of shepherd, but Belgians do not recommend following the traditional procedure for such dogs – trimming, i.e. pulling out dead hair. They have a different opinion on this – dogs should naturally fade, after which their “fur coats” are renewed.
- But if such an animal lives in apartment conditions, the abundant hair loss will be a great nuisance. In this case, you can periodically treat your pet with a special brush or furminator, thereby helping the dog to get rid of old hair.
- The Laekenois coat can be completely self-cleaning, so it does not require frequent washing. Even when the dog is very dirty, it is enough for him after drying to shake the dirt so that it disappears.
- Animal teeth require special attention. It is recommended to clean them 1-2 times a week.
- Ears should be cleaned as needed using herbal products.
- It is enough to inspect the eyes regularly, but you can only wipe them if they are acidified or dirty.
You can meet the daily exercise needs of your Belgian Shepherd Laekenois by doing 60-90 minute activities or 2-3 kilometer walks.
For the Belgian Laekenois to be happy, fit and healthy, the duration of the exercises is also important. The duration and content of the exercise should be planned according to the health status and needs of the puppy, young, adult and senior Belgian Laekenois dog.
You can supplement the exercises with activities in which your dog is interested and competent. You will find that when you encourage the Belgian Laekenois breed to exercise both mentally and physically, its development is positively affected.
Belgian Laekenois are active, energetic dogs that thrive in environments where they have plenty of space to roam. While they can adapt to apartment living with adequate exercise, they are best suited to homes with a yard where they can run and play freely. Adequate mental stimulation and regular physical activity are essential to prevent boredom and ensure their well-being, regardless of living conditions.
Character and behavior
Since the history of the Belgian Shepherd Dogs began not so long ago, the representatives of the breed still retain the working qualities of their ancestors. These dogs do an excellent shepherd job, and also cope with security and search activities. Of course, today they are rarely used as shepherds, but they have successfully shown themselves in other directions.
All Belgians are very sensitive pets, ready to communicate with their owner. Naturally, this requires certain conditions, the puppy must not only be trained, but socialized. The kid should be in crowded places, get acquainted with other animals and people, this will exclude the possibility that the dog will grow up timid, insecure, hysterical or overly aggressive.
Laekenois gets along well with children. The dog may not play with babies, but he tends to obey the younger members of the family. As for other pets, problems can arise here. It will be difficult for these dogs to get along with rodents, which will evoke hunting instincts in the dog and be considered a “victim”. This can also apply to cats, however, if only the shepherd is not properly raised.
Sociality
Relationship with the human family
Attitude towards loneliness
Tendency to bark
Friendship with dogs
Adaptability
City life
Suitable as the first dog
Tolerance for hot temperatures
Tolerance for cold temperatures
Price and budget
Here’s an overview of the Laekenois prices and estimated annual maintenance costs across various countries:
Explanation:
- Purchase Price: The cost to acquire a Laekenois puppy from a reputable breeder. The price range depends on factors like breeder reputation, lineage, and health clearances.
- Mini: Lower range, typically for standard puppies without a prestigious lineage or breeding rights.
- Maxi: Higher range, for show-quality dogs or those from top bloodlines.
- Annual Maintenance Cost: This includes food, vet visits, grooming, and training. The Laekenois, being an active working dog, has particular needs.
- Mini: Basic care including standard food and routine veterinary visits.
- Maxi: Premium care with higher-quality food, more frequent check-ups, and additional costs for activities like training or grooming.
Additional Considerations:
The Laekenois is the rarest of the Belgian Shepherd dogs and requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their rough, wiry coat needs moderate grooming. Early socialization and obedience training are essential due to their strong working instincts and natural protective behaviors.
History of the breed
On the territory of Belgium at the end of the 19th century, there were many dogs that did an excellent job as a shepherd. They were motley, differed in size and appearance, united by only one type of activity. This prompted dog breeders to get a single breed that would have improved working qualities and a uniform exterior.
In 1891, Mr Rel and a group of enthusiasts created the Belgian Shepherd Dog Club in Brussels. In the same year, an exhibition was held, in which more than a hundred individuals participated. Some of the participants were selected for further breeding work.
As a result, the breeders received not one, but four varieties of “Belgian” – tervuren, malinois, groenendael and Laekenois. Today, the International Cynological Association rates them according to a single standard, although in some countries they are still accepted as separate breeds.
Laekenoisis one of the rarest species of Belgian shepherd dogs, the breed was named after the Château de Laquin, a residence owned by Queen Henrietta of Belgium.
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