Dog Dog Breeds
Belgian Shepherd Groenendael – Characteristics, Health & FactsBelgian Shepherd Groenendael – Characteristics, Health & Facts
The Belgian Shepherd Groenendael Groenendael is one of the four varieties of Belgian Shepherd Dogs. They originated as herding dogs in the various provinces of Belgium and worked as living fences for the many flocks of sheep found in the region – they were much prized for their tireless quick gait, their intelligence, and intense loyalty. Facts For Belgian Shepherd Groenendael In 1891 the first gathering of Belgian Shepherds from various Belgian counties was organized and from this, four distinct varieties could be seen and these were named after the areas from which they were most prevalent. The first breed standard was written in 1892 which separated the varieties into long-haired, short-haired, and rough-haired. During World War One Belgian Shepherd Dogs were used on the battlefields serving as ambulance dogs, message carriers and even pulling machine guns. The period after the war saw an increase in popularity of the breed worldwide and Groenendaels were exported to many parts of the world.