Laekenois
The Laekenois is one of the four Belgian Shepherd dog breeds known for its distinct rough, wiry coat. Originally bred for herding and guarding livestock, it is intelligent, loyal, and highly protective. The breed is affectionate with family but can be reserved with strangers, making it an excellent watchdog. Energetic and active, the Laekenois thrives with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Its versatility and strong work ethic suit roles in security, search and rescue, and companionship.
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Life expectancy |
The Laekenois has a life expectancy of between 10 and 12 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Large
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Adult size |
Female
Between 22 and 24 in
Male
Between 24 and 26 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 44 and 55 lb
Male
Between 55 and 66 lb
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Coat colour
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Sand
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Type of coat
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Short
Hard
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Eye colour
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Brown
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Purchase price |
The Laekenois costs between £800 and £2000 |
The Laekenois is one of the most independent of the Belgian Shepherd breeds, yet it is deeply loyal and protective of its family. Known for its intelligence and versatility, it excels in various roles, including search and rescue, police work, and dog sports. Though less common than the Malinois, it is highly valued for its energy, work ethic, and affectionate nature, making it a great companion for active owners.
More details about the Laekenois
Laekenois: Origins and history
The Laekenois takes its name from the Laeken region in Belgium, where it was developed in the late 19th century to guard flocks of sheep. One of four Belgian Shepherd varieties, alongside the Malinois, Tervueren, and Groenendael, the Laekenois' rough coat was suited to harsh weather. Initially used for herding and guarding, its intelligence and working traits also led to roles in dog sports and police work.
Though less common, the Laekenois is valued for its loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature.
Laekenois: Characteristics
The Laekenois is known for its affectionate nature, forming close bonds with its family and thriving on companionship.
Highly energetic and playful, this breed enjoys both physical and mental stimulation, excelling in various dog sports such as agility.
Despite its lively disposition, the Laekenois can be calm when needed and adapt well to indoor living if provided with sufficient daily exercise.
While its herding instinct may lead to the occasional chasing of other animals, the Laekenois is not inherently a hunter by nature.
The Laekenois has a natural herding instinct, which can show up as chasing behaviour. While this may resemble a prey drive, it’s not truly a hunting trait. The breed isn’t a predator but may pursue movement instinctively.
This breed may be cautious around strangers, making early socialisation essential to ensure balanced behaviour.
Though independent in character, the Laekenois remains deeply attached to its family and thrives on companionship.
Laekenois: Behaviour
The Laekenois doesn't tend to cope well with being left alone. Prolonged isolation can lead to destructive behaviours.
Highly intelligent and eager to please, the Laekenois responds well to positive, consistent training methods, making it generally easy to train.
While not particularly vocal, it may bark to alert or express excitement.
With a strong guarding instinct, the Laekenois is unlikely to run off, especially when well-exercised and mentally stimulated.
Without adequate physical and mental enrichment or when left alone for extended periods, it may become destructive.
The Laekenois typically has a healthy appetite but is not known for being overly greedy.
Naturally protective of its family and territory, the Laekenois makes an excellent guard dog.
Training a Laekenois
Training a Laekenois requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. Intelligent and eager to please, this breed responds best to reward-based methods using praise, treats, and play. Early socialisation is essential to build confidence and reduce wariness of strangers. Short, engaging training sessions help maintain focus, while regular mental stimulation prevents boredom.
Firm but gentle guidance is key, as harsh methods can damage trust. With proper training and structure, the Laekenois excels in obedience, agility, and other canine activities.
Laekenois: Lifestyle
The Laekenois can adapt to flat living if it receives sufficient daily exercise. However, a spacious flat or a house with a garden is ideal to better meet its need for space and activity.
This energetic breed requires plenty of daily exercise and thrives in dog sports such as agility. It also enjoys long, stimulating walks.
As a medium-sized dog, the Laekenois travels fairly easily, but its high energy levels may cause restlessness. Regular breaks to stretch its legs are essential.
Breed compatibility Laekenois
With early socialisation, the Laekenois can coexist well with cats. However, due to its natural herding instinct, interactions with small animals should be closely supervised.
When properly socialised from a young age, the Laekenois generally gets along well with other dogs.
These dogs are typically affectionate and protective with children. They enjoy playtime, but due to their liveliness, interactions with children should be supervised.
The Laekenois may suit active seniors, but its high energy and exercise needs could be challenging for those with a less active lifestyle.
Due to its high energy levels, exercise requirements, and confident nature, the Laekenois is not typically recommended for first-time dog owners.
Laekenois: Purchase price
A Laekenois puppy typically costs between £800 and £2,000.
Daily expenses, including quality food, healthcare, and insurance. Prospective owners should also budget for additional costs such as grooming, training, and equipment to ensure the well-being of their Laekenois.
Laekenois: Shedding
Average
The Laekenois has moderate shedding, with the heaviest hair loss occurring in spring and autumn. During these times, more frequent brushing is recommended to manage shedding and prevent matting. Outside of these periods, weekly brushing is typically sufficient. While shedding is not excessive, the Laekenois is not considered a hypoallergenic breed.
Laekenois: Grooming
The Laekenois has a harsh, wiry coat that requires regular grooming to stay in good condition. Weekly brushing helps prevent matting and removes dead hair, with more frequent brushing needed during heavier shedding seasons in spring and autumn. Occasional bathing is sufficient, as overbathing can strip the coat of natural oils. Regular trimming of the coat may be needed to maintain its characteristic texture. Routine ear checks, nail trimming, and dental care are also essential for overall health.
Laekenois: Health
The Laekenois is a resilient and robust breed, generally enjoying good health and not being particularly predisposed to serious illnesses. However, like all dogs, it is crucial to provide regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle to maintain its well-being. Regular health check-ups help to ensure early detection of any potential health concerns.
While the Laekenois' dense coat offers protection, it tolerates cold weather better than heat. This breed can adapt to moderate temperatures, but care should be taken during hot weather to prevent overheating. In warmer climates, it is important to provide ample shade and water and avoid excessive outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day.
The Laekenois is well-suited to colder climates due to its harsh coat and dense undercoat, which offer excellent insulation. This breed thrives in cooler temperatures and is comfortable in winter conditions but should still be monitored for signs of discomfort in extreme cold.
The Laekenois is unlikely to gain weight when given enough exercise. Its active and energetic nature helps maintain a healthy weight naturally. Regular physical activity is essential to keep it fit and prevent obesity, especially considering its high energy needs and tendency for alertness and work.
Despite its robust nature, the Laekenois can be prone to certain health conditions, including:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: joint issues can be common in large breeds
- Stomach cancers: though rare, some individuals may be prone to gastrointestinal cancers
- Epilepsy: some Laekenois may experience seizures, though it is not widespread
- Allergies: like many dogs, the Laekenois may suffer from environmental or food allergies
Early detection, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help manage these conditions and ensure a long, happy life.
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