Facts & Origin
Laekenois is pronounced Läkenoa or Läken!
What is the origin of the Laekenois?
The Laekenois belongs with Tervueren, Groenendael and Malinois to the Belgian Sheepdogs and is the only rough-coated variety. It was named after the town and castle of the same name, Laeken, in Belgium, on whose land it was originally used as a herding dog. Unlike the other three varieties, the Laekenois is rather unknown, although he is in no way inferior to them.
What are the breed characteristics of the Laekenois?
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale, FCI for short, lists the Laekenois together with the other three varieties of the Belgian Shepherd Dog under standard number 15 and here sets the external characteristics, character and temperament - the so-called breed standard to which Laekenois breeders are guided.
| Alternate Name | Belgian shepherd dog |
| Origin | Belgium |
| Life expectancy | 12 - 15 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance |
| Activity level | high |
| FCI group | Sheepdogs |
| AKC group | Herding Group |
| KC group | Pastoral Group |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
What are the typical traits of the wire haired Belgian Shepherd?
The Belgian Sheepdog with the rough-coated coat is especially known for the following character traits:
- intelligent
- lively
- persevering
- alert
- protective
- affectionate
Attitude of the Laekenois
Just like the other varieties of the Belgian Shepherd, the Laekenois is very active and wants to be exercised and kept busy. However, when it is physically and mentally exercised, it also makes a good family dog, usually getting along well with children.
The Laekenois' coarse coat requires professional trimming several times a year, which involves plucking out the dead undercoat.
Use of the Belgian
Originally, the dog was used as a herding and sheepdog. As an owner, you have to replace this demanding task with other physical and mental activities so that your Laekenois does not get bored. Thus, common sports, tournament dog sports or training as a working or service dog is a good way to do justice to the Belgian Shepherd.
Character
Health and breeding information
What are typical diseases of the Laekenois?
Typical diseases are not known in the Laekenois. Also hip dysplasia does not occur more frequently than in other large or medium-sized breeds.
Laekenois breeding - where, how, what?
If you want to buy a Laekenois, you are well advised to buy a dog from a registered breeder, because here health and a balanced nature of the dogs are the first priority. These Laekenois puppies are also already well socialized when they move in with you.
As the Laekenois is rather unknown and in the shadow of the other varieties, especially the Malinois, Laekenois breeders are also rather rare. However, the DKB - Deutscher Klub für Belgische Schäferhunde e.V. im VDH (German Club for belgian Shepherds)- has created a list where you can find several contacts if you are interested in a Laekenois puppy.
Special features of the Laekenois
Even if the Laekenois is not very common in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, there are some Laekenois in need, who are looking for a new home. So if you want to buy a Laekenois and maybe you can do without a pedigree or papers, this would be an alternative to a Laekenois from a breeder.
Appearance and coat of the Laekenois
The Laekenois is the only variety with a rough coat that can be easily distinguished from the others. With it only the fawn colour with a weak, black cloud is desirable. This means that mainly on the muzzle and tail the tips of the hairs are slightly black. White markings may also appear on the forechest and on the toes.
How tall is the dog from Belgium?
With an average height of 62 cm for males and 58 cm for females, the Laekenois belongs to the medium-sized or large dogs. The breed standard allows deviations of 4 cm upwards and 2 cm downwards from these desired sizes.
How much does the animal weigh?
A Laekenois male ideally weighs between 25 kg and 30 kg. Bitches are slightly lighter at 20 kg to 25 kg.
How old will the dog be?
With 12 to 15 years the life expectancy of a Laekenois is in the upper range.
| Fur length | medium |
| Fur | rough-haired |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears |
| Tail | lang |
| Anatomy | rugged, sporty |
| Size ♀ | 50 - 60 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 20 - 25 kg |
| Size ♂ | 58 - 62 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 25 - 30 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
Colors
Known Diseases
Hip dysplasia (HD)
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a genetic condition in dogs where the hip joint is not shaped properly. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
