The Groenendael - or Belgian Sheepdog - is a working dog
from Belgium. This breed is elegant, strong, intelligent, and
easy to train.
The breed stems back to the 1800s and were originally used as
herders, watchdogs, and companions. Their smarts and versatility soon made them popular outside the country of origin, and
early on the Groenendaels served as police dogs in Paris and
New York City, and they were famous for catching smugglers for
Belgian customs.
Many other breeds declined during the world wars, but the
Groenendael’s usefulness allowed them to thrive. During WWI
they carried messages, served as ambulance dogs, and even
pulled machine guns. During WWII they guarded military installations and watched for intruders.
In today’s world, not many need a herding dog, but the
Groenendael still excels. Many work in search and rescue, as
guide dogs, and as therapy dogs. They also do very well in dog
sports such as obedience, agility, and tracking.
This is a high energy breed that likes to have a lot to do. They
need exercise, but are able to relax in a home environment, and
they’re known as devoted and gentle companions that do well
with children.
A Groenendal typically needs a large PlexiDor pet door.
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