The Belgian Sheepdog is one of four sheepdogs originating in Belgium. It is also known as the Belgian Groenendael (Grow-en-en-doll ) or Chien de Berger Belge. In some countries they are all considered one breed. The AKC recognizes three of the four breeds including the Belgian Groenendael. These four breeds are so closely related that, when they have a litter of puppies, some of the puppies will closely resemble one of the other three breeds more than its parents.
This medium to medium/large breed weighs between 55-75 pounds and is between 21" to 27" in height. They are a working dog and want a job to do. A bored Belgian Groenendael will find some way to fill its time and will make their own dog toys. That being said, it is best to ensure that they have plenty to fill their time.
The AKC recognized coat color for the Belgian Groenendael is black. They are permitted to have a very small patch of white on their muzzle, forechest and between feet pads. Their dense undercoat and long, straight, heavy outer coat needs daily grooming to prevent tangles and mats. They shed regularly but have a heavy shedding period twice a year.
Energetic and protective, the Belgian Groenendael is loyal to their family and makes an excellent watchdog. While two of the other Belgian Groenendaels are still used more as working dogs, the Belgian Groenendael is seen as family pet and watchdog. They need plenty of time and room to roam and run, so they work best with active families that have a large yard or regular access to a park or farm. They need early socialization for other dogs, children and pets. Some Belgian Groenendaels have been known to be aggressive so you should talk to the breeder about aggression in their ancestry. They are fairly easy to train, but early training is recommended.
Originating in Belgium, the Belgian Groenendael was developed by a breeder in Groenendael, Belgium. They have been traditionally used as working dogs and have had such jobs as police dog, cattle and sheep herder and search and rescue and message delivery dogs during WW I and II.
Family friendly, loyal and affectionate, the Belgian Groenendael enjoys companionship for play and rest. They are definitely not for families who want a calm lap dog. But, if you want an intelligent, energetic dog that enjoys exercise and play, then the Belgian Groenendael will not disappoint you in any way, shape or form.
The Cairn Terrier is can be kept in an apartment or home. She can get enough exercise if she is walked regularly but a properly fenced in enclosure is ideal. She likes to bark and dig so beware of your neighbors and landscaping. She needs to be kept on a lead when walking because she may take off on the chase.
Good With Children?
Loves to play with older children but needs supervision.. As a reminder, never leave young children unsupervised with a dog or puppy.
Good With Other Pets?
May fight other dogs. Bred to kill vermin. Will kill cats and other small pets.
Trainability
Very high. They can be trained to do tricks.
Approximate Adult Size
The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Cairn Terrier is 10 to 13 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 14 to 18 pounds. The female ranges from 9 to 12 inches to the withers and 13 to 17 pounds.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Cairn Terrier is no exception. Be on the look out for dislocated knees, skin allergies especially due to fleas, eye diseases, Von Willebrands disease (a problem with blood clotting), and progressive neurological disorders.
This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Cairn Terrier has a weather resistant hard outer coat with a close, furry soft inner coat. She sheds little but should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her. Bathe monthly.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
Life Span
The Cairn Terrier can live between 12 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
History
Believed to be from the Western Highlands of Scotland or the island of Skye, the Cairn Terrier is probably a cross between the black and tan terrier and white terrier. Toto from the Wizard of Oz is perhaps the best known of the breed. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1913.