Source: Wikimedia Commons
Belgian Groenendael
AdvancedCanis lupus familiaris
The solid-black, long-haired variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog, with a glossy coat and full ruff; the AKC recognises it under the name Belgian Sheepdog.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
15〜26℃
Lifespan
12-14 years
Size
Height 56-66cm / Weight 20-30kg
Diet
Complete dog food matched to size and activity, avoid obesity
About
The Belgian Groenendael is one of the four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd Dog (FCI No.15) and, like the Tervueren, a long-haired variety. The two are separated by colour: only uniform black is allowed for the Groenendael. The FCI standard treats reddish tinges in the coat and grey culottes as faults, and tolerates only a little white on the forechest and toes. The long coat is arranged as in the Tervueren, with a ruff and apron, fringes on the back of the forelegs, culottes and a plumed tail. Matings between varieties are forbidden except by special permission, so the black long coat is kept within the variety. In the United States the AKC registers this variety as a separate breed called the Belgian Sheepdog, which is the name to search for in English-language sources. The AKC parent club lists cancer, epilepsy, hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts and hypothyroidism among conditions seen in the breed, and notes that Belgians are sensitive to anaesthesia. It craves human companionship and needs daily exercise together with its owner. In Japan the JKC registers each variety separately; only 15 Groenendael were registered in 2024.
Lifespan of the Belgian Groenendael
The Belgian Groenendael lives 12-14 years.
Size of the Belgian Groenendael
The Belgian Groenendael grows to Height 56-66cm / Weight 20-30kg.
Basic Info
Origin
Belgium
Lifespan
12-14 years
Size
Height 56-66cm / Weight 20-30kg
Temperature
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are excluded from the CITES appendices and are not listed as Invasive Alien Species or Specified Animals under Japanese law, so no special permit is needed. Under Japan's Rabies Prevention Act, dogs must be registered with the local municipality and vaccinated against rabies once a year.
Sources: Species+ (Canis lupus; domesticated form excluded) / Ministry of the Environment, Japan: list of Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Belgian Groenendael Listings
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