01Mar
I have the long hair variety Tervuren and Groenedahl and have 40 years learning about them and most dogs since i groomed trained ,boarded all breeds. It seems many people are interested in them and would like to own one some as pets some for performance and show some to breed and i mean to breed with no knowledge or willingness to learn about them and breeding.They are beautiful but they have their drawbacks and of course their good points. For those who never had one ill give you a quick rundown and why they would be good or not good for you. First what they were bred for: herding flocks mostly sheep and some guarding so they are supposed to be wary of new strange or different maybe threatening animal. What that means is that they probably wont be friendly to strangers or strange dogs or other animals. So if you want a dog to wag its tail and say hi to everyone wrong dog for you. #2 they are reactive to sight and sound so they could turn on a dime and run after loose flock members. What that means to a novice they are jumpy or skittish NO THEY ARE NOT cant herd like a slug.! If you dont get that get a more mellow dog like a golden. #3 Energy they have it especially younger and need to release it in a safe enclosed space because guess what they will chase CARS! , DEER, BIRDS IN THE SKY , Horses ,JOGGERS, BICYCLES! What happens when they get pent up with energy here ill give you a photo of a 10 yr old dog . # 4 They need structure and guidance on their behavior they do look to you their master for what to do or behave that’s right they were bred to work with their master mistress “shepherd”; they learn not to bark .growl or chase if you let them know clearly maybe loudly you dont like it or want it ,yes they will be friendly to strangers other dogs other animals with exposure and direction. NOW what is good about them: # 1 THEY ARE EASY to train if you know how ,5 -10 minutes a day with a special reward treat like hot dogs , cheese,liver bits etc very quick learners! # 2 they are your devoted affectionate companion they will follow you everywhere and very versatile they can do it all herding agility ,obedience, hiking walking and conformation. # 3 they have a sense of humor and love to please you . # 4 pretty easy to groom but there is shedding and need thorough brush and grooming. # 5 GOOD HEALTH very little hip, elbow or joint problems can live to 16 yrs especially if you have my dogs and follow my longevity information.
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