11 Dog Breeds From Belgium: A Guide for Dog Lovers

Belgium is home to a variety of dog breeds, each with its own unique characteristics and qualities. In this post, we will explore 11 Belgian dog breeds, shedding light on their history, temperament, and suitability as family pets or working dogs. Known for their intelligence and trainability, many Belgian breeds excel as service dogs. But don’t be fooled by their size – even the little dogs from Belgium pack a punch when it comes to loyalty and companionship!

How do Belgian breeds differ from other breeds?

Belgian dog breeds are known for their intelligence, versatility, and strong work ethic. They were bred to perform specific tasks such as herding, guarding, or tracking. These breeds are highly trainable, have a high energy level, and require mental stimulation and physical exercise to thrive.

#1. Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois are like the superheroes of the dog world. These dogs were initially developed for herding purposes but have since gained popularity in various other fields such as police work, search and rescue, and even as family pets. They showcase high intelligence and skill in obedience training and dog sports, making them perfect crime fighters. But it’s not all work and no play for these pups. Their well-being hinges on regular physical activity and mental stimulation, so they need a lot of exercise to keep their minds and bodies happy. Despite their tough exterior, Belgian Malinois are also protective and family-oriented. Early socialization and training are important to prevent any behavioral issues down the line. The great thing about these dogs is that they have a low-maintenance coat, so you won’t find yourself covered in fur every day. Plus, they make excellent companions who will be there by your side through thick and thin. Just remember to give them plenty of love, attention, and adventure, because this breed thrives as an active, engaged member of the family. They can reach 26 inches in height and 80 pounds in weight.

#2. Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is one impressive pup! This medium to large-sized dog breed was originally bred for herding and guarding livestock, so you know they’ve got some serious skills. But it’s not just their working abilities that make them stand out – these dogs are also known for their high intelligence, loyalty, and trainability. They’re like the Einstein of the dog world! Just be prepared to put in a little extra effort when it comes to grooming. Their thick, long coat requires regular maintenance to keep them looking fabulous. And while they may be protective, with the right socialization and training, they can be friendly with strangers and other animals. They can reach 26 inches in height and 75 pounds in weight. Their coat dolor ranges from fawn to mahogany with a black overlay that will usually get darker as they get older.

#3. Belgian Laekenois

he Belgian Laekenois is like the rare gem of the four Belgian shepherd breeds. With its wiry coat and protective nature, it’s a breed that stands out from the crowd. Originally bred as working dogs for herding and protecting livestock, these pups have intelligence coursing through their veins. They require consistent training and socialization to keep them on their best behavior. These pups have a strong instinct to protect their family, so they may be a bit wary around strangers. But don’t let that deter you! They make fantastic companions for active families or individuals who love outdoor activities. They can reach a height of 26 inches and weigh up to 65 pounds. Their rough, course coats can come in shades of red, fawn and grey with a sprinkling of black.

#4. Groenendael aka Belgian Sheepdog

Known for their striking black coat and athletic build, the Groenendael is a Belgian dog breed with a rich history of herding and police work. Their loyalty and protectiveness make them excellent family pets, while also excelling as working dogs in various performance sports. Proper training and exercise are essential for this intelligent and high-energy breed, while potential health concerns like hip and elbow dysplasia require attention. With their friendly and smart nature, Groenendaels thrive in active households where they can receive a lot of exercise and attention. They generally reach a height of up to 26 inches and a weight of 75 pounds. Their long, straight coat can be black or black with white markings.

#5. Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is a great breed that originated from Belgium. These large dogs have a rich history, originally bred for herding purposes. However, their versatility was quickly recognized, and they also served as guard dogs during World War I and II. Bouviers are renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature, making them excellent family pets when properly socialized and trained. One of the most distinctive features of the Bouvier is their thick, curly coat, which demands regular grooming and their scruffy face and black mask. It’s important to note that early training and socialization are crucial for these smart and smart dogs. With the right approach, Bouviers can become well-rounded companions that can adjust to many situations. These large dogs can reach 27.5 inches in height and 110 pounds in weight. Their rough double coat can range in colors from fawn to black, salt and pepper and brindle.

#6. Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is a little ball of personality and charm. This compact and robust breed is known for its unique beard and mustache, which adds to its adorable appearance. Originally bred to hunt rats in Belgian horse stables and similar areas, Brussels Griffons are intelligent and fiercely loyal, making them exceptional companions. While they can be a bit stubborn at times, consistent training and socialization can go a long way in bringing out the best in them. With adequate exercise and mental stimulation, they adapt well to apartment living, making them a great choice for urban dwellers. They are a small breed that can reach 10 inches in height and 10 pounds in weight. There are three varieties of the Brussels Griffon: The Brussels Griffon, Petit Brabançon, Griffon Belge. The Brussels Griffon and the Griffon Belge are rough coated while the Griffon Belge has a smooth coat. Their coat color is different with each variety.

#7. Schipperke

Originally from Belgium, Schipperkes are a small breed of dog known for their high energy levels and playful personalities. Bred to work on canal boats, they excel in guarding cargo and keeping pests at bay. Their intelligence and independence make them a great fit for experienced dog owners, while the thick, black coat requires regular grooming. If you’re an active individual or have older children in your family, a Schipperke could be the perfect companion for you. These small pups can reach 13 inches in height and 16 pounds in weight. Their long, harsh feeling coat comes in black.

#8. Papillon

Papillons, weighing between 4-9 pounds, are affectionately known as “butterfly” dogs due to their ears resembling butterfly wings. These adorable little creatures not only have a unique appearance but also possess a remarkable intelligence and trainability. Papillons excel in obedience training and agility competitions, thanks to their quick wit and eagerness to please their owners. Despite their small size, they are energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. While generally healthy, Papillons may be prone to dental problems and luxating patellas. However, with proper care and attention, these little companions can live 16 years or longer. Their parti-colored or white coat can come with patches of any color.

#9. Phalène

The Phalène, also known as the butterfly-eared dog, is a toy breed and a variety of the Papillon breed. Phalènes are similar to Papillons, but their distinct feature is their drop ears, as opposed to the erect butterfly-shaped ears of the Papillon. Phalènes and Papillon are born in the same litter and are considered a separate breed by the FCI, however the American Kennel Club (AKC) considers them a different variety of the Papillon breed. They are actually the earliest version of the Papillon. They are known to be trainable and affectionate.

#10. Bouvier des Ardennes

The Bouvier des Ardennes is a hidden gem in the world of dog breeds. Hailing from Belgium, this versatile herding dog has proven its worth in various roles such as herding livestock, guarding property, and serving as a reliable working companion. They are masters at herding cattle in rough terrain and have been used to track dear and wild boar. Bouviers des Ardennes are excellent farm dogs and possess boundless energy and strength, making them a force to be reckoned with. To ensure their well-rounded development, early socialization, positive training, mental stimulation, and regular exercise are essential. They can grow to a height of 24 inches and weigh up to 77 pounds. Their rough ,coarse topcoat can come in all colors except white.

#11. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful breed known for its playful and affectionate temperament. With their curly, hypoallergenic coat, they are a popular choice for people with allergies. Bichon Frises have a natural inclination to bond with their human family members and make excellent companion breeds. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat, but they are relatively low shedders. They are highly adaptable dogs, comfortable in different living environments, and thrive on human companionship. These small pups can reach up to 11.5 inches in height and 18 pounds in weight. Their soft, fluffy coat can be white in color.

Dog Breeds from Belgium-Final Thoughts

Belgium is home to a diverse range of dog breeds that cater to various needs and preferences. From the intelligent and versatile Belgian Malinois, which excels in law enforcement and service roles, to the friendly and affectionate Bichon Frise, which make excellent family pets, there is a breed for everyone. The different types of coat, ranging from short to long, accommodate various climates and grooming preferences. Whether you’re in search of a herding breed to assist on the farm or a companion for your home, the Belgian dog breeds offer options for both large and small spaces. It’s important to note that many of these high energy breeds require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. If you’re looking for a healthy breed with intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, one of these 11 dog breeds from Belgium might fit your needs perfectly.