Groenendael Care

The Groenendael, also called the Belgian Sheepdog, is an energetic, medium- to large-sized breed that originated as a herding dog in Belgium. This alert breed has a strong work ethic, and is prized as both a farm dog and as a companion to active families. Overall Groenendael care will require a moderate amount of work, and will need to include plenty of daily exercise.

Below you'll find details on caring for a Groenendael including puppy development, exercise needs, and more. Consider this your definitive Groenendael guide--and read on!

As a herding breed, Groenendael exercise requirements are fairly high. These dogs will need activities that both condition them physically (walking, bicycling/jogging, fetch) and stimulate them mentally (games, canine sports).

An adult Groenendael, depending on its age and overall activity level, will need at least an hour of proper exercise per day--such as a couple of walks or jogs and a good period of play. You can start exercising these puppies at three months old by taking them on short (5-minute) walks--and these early walks are a good opportunity to start leash training: have the puppy walk beside or behind you on the leash instead of being allowed to lead. This, in the puppy's mind, establishes you as the leader, and should make training easier as the pup grows.

A few things to keep in mind with Belgian Sheepdog exercise: first, try not to exercise puppies younger than nine months old too vigorously (avoid too much jumping, running, or stairs), as this can injure their still-developing joints and bones. And regardless of age, all Groenendaels will need to be leashed in public. These dogs have strong herding instincts, and will try to control moving objects (bicyclists, other pets, joggers) unless controlled by a leash. Even when exercising in your own yard, the area will need to be securely fenced to keep the dog from running away.

Precautions aside, exercising your Groenendael every single day is important. These dogs are extremely energetic, and without consistent activity they'll become frustrated, disobedient, and destructive. An under-exercised Groenendael, in other words, is an unhappy one! A few exercise ideas:

• Walking/Jogging/Bicycling: Two 30-minute walks (or 20-minute jogs or bike rides) per day is a good target
• Fetch/Frisbee: Groenendaels will love this game
• Hide-and-Seek: Good indoor activity; give the dog a treat when it finds you
• Dog Park: If properly socialized, Groenendaels enjoy the company of other dogs; be sure to use a leash
• Hiking: Excellent bonding activity

When indoors, give your Groenendael access to balls or toys that allow the dog to burn excess energy. It's also good to establish an exercise schedule for the dog, such as walks or jogs after breakfast and dinner and playtime in the afternoon.

In terms of shedding and drooling, these dogs will need some care. Belgian Sheepdog shedding is fairly heavy--but drooling isn't an issue.

Groenendaels have thick, double-layered coats that shed a good bit all year long. Owners will need to brush them 3-4 times per week with a pin brush to minimize the shedding, and hair cleanup--vacuuming the floors and lint rollers on clothes and furniture--will be necessary pretty often.

A Groenendael rarely drools, though. If your Belgian Sheepdog is drooling excessively, it's likely a medical issue; take the dog to the vet immediately.

Groenendaels are typically comfortable in any climate, and will tolerate both hot and cold weather with equal ease.