Elite on four legs: The rise of the Belgian shepherd as a global working dog
This summer, Belga English is showcasing some of Belgium’s most remarkable animals. From giant rabbits to enormous horses and dogs with the best sense of smell in the world, we look at the unique species that originate in Belgium.
Originally developed to herd, guard and protect livestock in rural Belgium, the Belgian shepherd has become one of the most sought-after working dogs globally. Today, it is relied upon by police forces, military units, customs services and search-and-rescue teams around the world.
The rise of this remarkable breed began in the 19th century. It was developed from various local shepherd dogs with the aim of creating a versatile working animal suited to herding, guarding and operating in diverse conditions.
Officially recognised in 1891 by the Club Belge du Chien de Berger Belge, the breed consists of four distinct varieties, differentiated by coat type and colour: Groenendael (long-haired black), Laekenois (wire-haired fawn), Malinois (short-haired fawn) and Tervuren (long-haired fawn).
While all four are exceptionally capable, the Malinois has gained particular international prominence. Agile, intelligent and highly trainable, Malinois now serve in elite roles, including with the US Secret Service, Navy SEALs and anti-poaching units in South Africa’s national parks.
Their popularity isn’t just based on their appearance or their lineage. They’re known for their strength, speed and fierce loyalty and are used at airports to detect explosives and narcotics. In war zones, they accompany soldiers on combat missions. After natural disasters, they’re deployed to locate survivors buried beneath rubble.
All four varieties are bred and exhibited in Belgium, but the Malinois still dominates working dog circles. Its drive, energy and responsiveness make it the preferred choice for challenging roles.
The Tervuren and the Groenendael are both long-haired and slightly more reserved. They are often seen in obedience trials and as service dogs. The rough-coated Laekenois is the rarest variety, though it has recently attracted renewed interest as a military working dog.
Belgian shepherds require experienced handling. Their high intelligence and energy levels demand continuous mental and physical stimulation, along with early and consistent training.
While this makes them excellent working dogs for professionals, they are less suited to inexperienced owners or those without sufficient time to invest. They are often found in shelters, typically the result of unmet needs. Without proper challenges, they can become difficult to manage in a home environment.
A serviceman with his Belgian shepherd Aid, receiving an award at the Dogs Heroes of Ukraine ceremony in Kyiv, December 2023 © PHOTO SERGEI SUPINSKY / AFP
A police officer trains her Belgian shepherd in Augsburg, Germany, October 2024 © PHOTO IMAGO
A Lithuanian service dog searches for explosives in the equipment of journalists and visitors ahead of a ministerial visit to Pabrade, May 2024 © PHOTO IMAGEBROKERWhen handled with skill and understanding, Belgian shepherds rise to the occasion like few others. They’ve earned their place as invaluable partners in high-stakes operations, whether it’s sniffing out contraband at border crossings or rescuing children from burning buildings,
Sleek, sharp and relentlessly focused, they thrive in situations where failure isn't an option. The breed, born on the farms of Flanders, has never lost its work ethic, only expanding its reach from pastoral fields to the front lines of global security.
#FlandersNewsService | A dog handler and his Malinois in Kyiv, August 2024 © PHOTO EUGEN KOTENKO / AVALON
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