The Belgian Sheepdog is a purebred dog breed that’s part of the herding group. Also known as the Chien de Berger Belge, this doggo comes from Belgium in the 1800s. Initially bred for many purposes, such as herding, carting, and message delivery, this dog breed is bright, watchful, and serious-minded. If you want to learn more about Belgian Sheepdog puppies, keep reading.
Where to get Belgian Sheepdog Puppies
If you want to know where the dog came from and you have your heart set on getting a puppy, then you can search for a reputable breeder. Since this is a purebred dog, it’s recognized by the American Kennel Club. So, you can begin your search on the AKC Marketplace. Ethical breeders are registered with them. Bailey…
You’ll be able to tell a good breeder from the rest because they’ll do the following:
- Socialize and train the puppies are early as possible
- Ensure the puppies are up to date with their vaccinations
- Health screen and genetically test the parents to ensure it’s safe and healthy to breed them (then gets the puppies tested)
- Have health documents and family tree history available for you to bring home upon adoption
- Want to meet with you in person to get to know you and so you can meet the parents and the litter
In addition, a good breeder will be open and honest with you. They’ll be knowledgeable about the breed as a whole, being able to answer all of your questions. Also, they’ll have the parents and puppies live in their home as part of the family, kennel-free.
If you find a breeder that doesn’t do what’s listed above, then you’ll want to avoid working with them. For instance, they could be a backyard breeder or a puppy mill. These breeders don’t breed the dogs under healthy or safe conditions. Also, they’re more interested in making a profit rather than finding the puppies good homes.
On the other hand, you can go through your local animal shelter or breed rescue organization. These places might have Belgian Sheepdog puppies, adults, seniors, or mixed breeds available for adoption. Most of these dogs were found as strays or they were abandoned or surrendered by their previous owners. So, you can save a dog’s life by giving them a forever, loving home.
The Cost
The average cost of Belgian Sheepdog puppies can range anywhere from $800 to $3,000. This price may vary depending on the breeder’s location, the time of year, the breed’s popularity, or the number of puppies in the litter.
Appearance
Belgian Sheepdog puppies will grow to be medium to large dogs, with males slightly bigger than females. For example, males can grow to be about 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. On the other hand, females can grow to be about 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 45 and 60 pounds.
In addition, they have a medium double coat that can come in many coat colors and markings, such as:
- Black
- Cream & Black
- Black & White
- Brown
- Fawn
- Fawn & Black
- Gray
- Gray & Black
- Sable
- Silver
- Silver & Black
- Wolfgray & Black
- Spotted
- White Markings
- Black Mask
Temperament
There’s a lot to love about this dog breed. For example, they’re loyal and affectionate with their family members. Also, they’re good around young children, other dogs, and meeting new people. However, they need plenty of early socialization and training.
Luckily, this dog breed is easy to train since they’re intelligent and eager to please their owner. However, you can hire a professional dog trainer to help you out if needed. Also, they’re an excellent watchdog and will bark to alert you of anything out of the ordinary.
Finally, the Belgian Sheepdog has high energy levels. They won’t do well living in an apartment and will need to have a bigger house with a fenced-in yard to run around in.
Belgian Sheepdog Puppies – Veterinary Needs
For the first year, you’ll want to bring your puppy to the vet a few times. This way, you can keep track of their growth and development. Then, for every year after that, you can bring them to the vet at least once a year for their annual checkup.
Belgian Sheepdogs are prone to a few health issues, such as:
- Hypothyroidism
- Hip Dysplasia
- Cancer
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
- Epilepsy
However, this doggo has an average lifespan of about 12 to 14 years with proper care.
Diet
With your vet’s approval, you can provide your dog with dog food that’s appropriate for their breed size, age, and weight. For instance, you can give them high-quality kibble or canned wet food from a commercial dog food brand or homemade dog food.
Grooming
When it comes to grooming, this dog breed is relatively low-maintenance. For instance, you’ll only need to bring them to a professional grooming salon once every other month for a good cleaning, clipping, and bath. However, you can bathe them yourself at home as needed.
On the other hand, this doggo does shed a moderate amount. So, you’ll want to brush their coat at least once a week to keep it looking nice. In addition, be sure to keep up with brushing their teeth, trimming their nails, and cleaning their ears regularly.
Belgian Sheepdog Puppies – Photos
