Rubin

 

 

 

No it's not a small Alsation!

They are significantly different both in body structure and temperament. The BSD is a more elegant dog with lighter bone. The BSD stands four square and is the same height to the withers as it is from point of shoulder to croup, while the GSD has a long, sloping back and walks flatter on the foot. The head is finer and more chiseled, with smaller, high set triangular ears. The Belgian Shepherd Dog may be solid black and long coated (Groenendael), long coated and any shade from grey, through red to deep mahogany with a black mask and with black tips to the hairs, termed overlay (Tervueren), similar colours to the Tervueren but short coated (Malinois) or reddish and rough coated (Laekenois). The GSD is typically tan, with a black saddle, although it can be solid black. The BSD is considered to be more sensitive than a GSD, which means they respond best to very positive reward based play training

They are medium sized elegant dogs bred as a herding guard dog. Males should be 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh 60 to 80 pounds. Females are rather smaller 22 to 24 inches and weighing 40 to 60 pounds. They are an active playful and affectionate dog that needs a lot of owner input. They are generally not a dog for the novice dog owner.

The BSD is an very active, intelligent dog that requires early socialisation and exposure to different situations, people and dogs. A puppy socialization class is strongly recommended for BSD puppies. New owners are often amazed and delighted at how quickly these dogs learn. But beware they are as quick to pick up bad habits as good! They are very sensitive to corrections, and respond best to positive reinforcement training using treats and toys.

BSD are generally healthy dogs living an average of 10 to 14 years. Like all larger dogs they are somewhat susceptible to hip dysplasia, however, which is a crippling inherited disorder, so it is important when getting a puppy to make sure that both its parents have had their hips scored under the BVA/KC scheme. There is a problem with cataracts so again breeding stock should be checked under the BVA/KC scheme. Another problem is epilepsy which is again thought to be inherited

The BSDA of GB can provide you with information about the breed and about the club and its activities. It also has a booklist of relevant literature which may be bought through the Association. The Association has a list of owners and breeders who are happy to have visits from people who just want to see what a BSD is like at close quarters.