![Belgian Shepherd Dog Groenendael Dog Breed](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium_440x440/public/2022-07/Belgian-Shepherd-Dog-Groenendael.jpg?itok=JOgz5HpJ)
Family-friendly: | 4/5 |
Exercise needs: | 5/5 |
Easy to train: | 5/5 |
Tolerates being alone: | 3/5 |
Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
Energy level: | 5/5 |
Grooming needs: | 3/5 |
Shedding: | 5/5 |
As with many breeds, all varieties of the Belgian can suffer from:
- Hip dysplasia
- Hereditary cataracts which is a condition where the lens in the eye becomes cloudy and this can result in blindness.
- Progressive retinal atrophy which is an inherited disorder where part of the eye degenerates and wastes away which can result in blindness.
Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing:
- Hip dysplasia screening scheme
- Eye screening scheme
Clever and attentive, although somewhat wary of strangers, the Groenendael is to this day, all a herding and guarding breed should be. Very trainable, with a huge capacity for learning but willing to make their own decisions should instruction not be forthcoming, they are in need of a dedicated owner with plenty of time to work with them and train them to a high standard. Friendly, and devoted affectionate to close family and friends, they do take time to warm to strangers and will not tolerate rough handling or over-familiarity from those they do not know.