Belgian Laekenois

Ultimate Dog Wiki

Imagine owning a dog that looks like it walked straight out of a medieval tapestry, with a coat as rugged as its personality and a loyalty that rivals the most steadfast of knights. Meet the Belgian Laekenois, the lesser-known member of the Belgian Shepherd family. If you’re into dogs that are a little off the beaten path—kind of like choosing an indie band over top 40 hits—the Laekenois might be your perfect match. But be warned: this breed isn’t for everyone.

Lifespawn

10 to 12 years

Weight

55 to 65 pounds (25 to 29.5 kg)

Height

Males: 24 to 26 inches (61 to 66 cm); Females: 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm);

Colours

Ranges from fawn to mahogany, with black shading on the muzzle and tail.

Size

Medium

Breed Group

Herding Group.

Quick Facts

  • Best suited for experienced owners familiar with herding breeds.
  • Requires consistent, firm training and early socialization; responds well to positive reinforcement.
  • High; needs substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and content.
  • Medium-sized dog.
  • Low; minimal drooling.
  • Moderate; regular brushing to maintain coat health and occasional trimming of the rough coat.
  • Non-hypoallergenic breed.
  • Moderate; may bark to alert or when engaged in work.
  • Strong protective instincts; makes an excellent watchdog.
  • Generally good with other pets if properly socialized; may exhibit herding behavior.
  • Good with children; supervision recommended due to energy level and herding instincts.

History and Origin

Development and Early Beginnings

The Belgian Laekenois (pronounced Lak-in-wah, because of course it’s French) has a history as textured as its wiry coat. Like its fellow Belgian Shepherd varieties, the Laekenois was developed in Belgium for herding livestock, particularly sheep, in the 19th century. Farmers needed a dog that could both protect and manage their flocks without needing constant supervision. And thus, the Belgian Shepherd dog, with its four varieties — the Malinois, Tervuren, Groenendael, and Laekenois (this one) — came into existence.

Of the four, the Laekenois was bred specifically for its rugged looks and hard-working nature. Unlike its more glamorous relatives, the Laekenois was all about getting down and dirty with the sheep (and by that, we mean herding them, not gossiping about their wool quality). With its wiry, rough coat, the Laekenois could withstand Belgium’s chilly, damp weather, which was a big plus when you’re outside keeping an eye on a flock all day.

Named after the Royal Château of Laeken, where the breed’s ancestors worked herding royal sheep (yes, even sheep can be royalty), the Laekenois quickly became a trusted companion for farmers and shepherds across Belgium. But while the breed was respected for its work ethic, it wasn’t exactly invited to fancy dog shows or getting much press coverage like its flashier cousins.

The Unsung Hero

Fast forward to the 20th century, and the Belgian Laekenois was still a hardworking dog, but this time it was taking on new roles. During both World Wars, the Laekenois was used as a messenger dog, bravely running through battlefields to deliver important information. (And let’s be honest, they probably delivered a few heartfelt tail wags along the way.) These dogs weren’t just about herding sheep anymore; they were putting their intelligence, agility, and bravery to use in more dangerous jobs.

Unfortunately, despite its many talents, the Laekenois has always been somewhat overshadowed by its fellow Belgian Shepherds. While the Malinois is out there winning K9 awards and Tervurens are gracing show rings with their flowing locks, the Laekenois remains the low-key hero, content with working hard behind the scenes.

Role in Society

Historically, the Belgian Laekenois was bred for herding, but its versatility has led to a variety of other roles. From messenger work during the wars to guarding homes and farms, the Laekenois has proven it’s not just a one-trick pony (or sheepdog, in this case). And while the breed is still used for herding in some parts of the world, it has transitioned beautifully into modern-day society as a loyal family companion and a talented working dog.

Today, Laekenois can be found excelling in police work, protection training, and search-and-rescue missions. They’ve got that perfect combination of brains and brawn — the ideal candidate for any job that requires both smarts and strength. Plus, they’ve got a sense of humor (or at least, they’ll let you think they do). Though they may not be as well-known as their fellow Belgian Shepherds, those who own a Laekenois will tell you that this breed is full of surprises — and a whole lot of heart.

Recognition by Kennel Clubs

The Belgian Laekenois may not be as famous as the Malinois, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t earned some serious respect in the dog world. The breed was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) as part of the Belgian Shepherd Dog group and has since gained recognition across the globe.

In the United States, the Laekenois was the last of the four Belgian Shepherd breeds to be recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). It finally got its moment in the spotlight when it was accepted into the Herding Group in 2020. Better late than never, right? The Laekenois might have taken its time getting official recognition, but with its unique look and impressive work ethic, it’s definitely a breed worth noticing.



Physical Characteristics

The Laekenois is a medium-sized, robust, and muscular herding dog. Known for its strength, agility, and intelligence, the Laekenois is a hardworking and versatile breed:

  • Males stand between 24 to 26 inches (61–66 cm) at the shoulder and weigh between 55 to 65 pounds (25–30 kg).
  • Females are slightly smaller, standing between 22 to 24 inches (56–61 cm) and weighing around 45 to 55 pounds (20–25 kg).

The breed’s sturdy frame and athletic build make it well-suited for a variety of demanding tasks, such as herding, protection, and tracking.

The Belgian Laekenois’ coat is rough, wiry, and curly, providing protection against harsh weather and rough terrain. It’s the Laekenois’ most distinctive feature among the four Belgian Shepherd varieties, which also include the Malinois, Tervuren, and Groenendael.

  • Texture: The coat is coarse, dry, and wiry, with a characteristic tousled appearance. It is of medium length, and while not harsh to the touch, it has a rough, unkempt look. This coat texture offers protection from the elements, particularly in cold or rainy conditions.
  • Color: The Laekenois comes in fawn to mahogany shades, often with black shading on the muzzle and around the face, ears, and tail. Some Laekenois may have small patches of white on the chest or feet, but solid colors with subtle variations are the norm.

The coat requires regular grooming to maintain its texture and cleanliness, though it is relatively easy to care for compared to long-haired breeds.

The Belgian Laekenois has several defining features that set it apart from its Belgian Shepherd counterparts:

  • Head and Face: The head is proportionate to the body, with a strong, square muzzle. The most notable feature is the rough, curly hair on the head and face, including the ears and muzzle, which gives the breed its rugged, somewhat tousled appearance. The eyes are almond-shaped and dark brown, reflecting an intelligent, alert expression.
  • Ears: The high-set, erect ears are medium-sized and triangular, adding to the breed’s alert look. The ears are covered in the same wiry hair as the rest of the body.
  • Body and Legs: The Laekenois has a compact, well-muscled body with a straight back and slightly sloping croup, providing a balanced, athletic profile. The chest is deep, and the legs are strong and muscular, built for endurance and agility.
  • Tail: The tail is long and bushy, carried low when the dog is relaxed but slightly raised when alert or in motion. The tail is covered in the same coarse, wiry hair as the rest of the body.

Overall, the Laekenois’ rugged, weatherproof coat and strong, athletic build make it a versatile working dog, capable of handling various tasks in challenging environments.



Temperament and Behavior

The Belgian Laekenois is a highly intelligent and trainable breed, known for its versatility in working roles such as herding, protection, and search-and-rescue. They are quick learners and thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training are crucial, as the Laekenois can be independent and may exhibit stubbornness if not properly managed.

Due to their high intelligence, they excel in obedience training and perform well in dog sports like agility, tracking, and Schutzhund. However, they need a confident, experienced handler who can provide firm but fair leadership. Training sessions should be varied and engaging to prevent boredom, as repetitive tasks may not hold their attention for long.

The Laekenois is a high-energy breed that requires at least 90 minutes of exercise per day to stay happy and healthy. They are natural athletes, bred for endurance, and they enjoy activities that challenge both their mind and body. Long walks, running, and interactive games like fetch or herding trials are ideal for channeling their energy.

While they are focused and serious when working, Laekenois can be quite playful and affectionate with their families. They enjoy engaging with their owners and thrive on having a job to do, whether it’s playing a game, solving a puzzle, or helping with tasks around the house. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, Laekenois can become bored and destructive, displaying behaviors such as chewing or digging.

The Belgian Laekenois is known for its strong loyalty and protective nature. They form deep bonds with their families and are highly affectionate toward their owners. Although they are not as openly affectionate as some other breeds, they demonstrate their love through devotion and attentiveness.

They are naturally protective, making them excellent watchdogs. The Laekenois will not hesitate to alert their family to potential dangers, but they are not typically aggressive unless provoked. They tend to be wary of strangers, making proper socialization crucial to prevent overprotectiveness.

Laekenois are generally good with children, but due to their herding instincts and energetic nature, they may try to herd small children. Supervision and training are important to ensure they interact gently with younger family members.



Caring and Grooming

The Belgian Laekenois’ coat is low-maintenance compared to longer-coated breeds but still requires regular attention to maintain its wiry texture and cleanliness:

  • Brushing: The rough coat should be brushed once a week using a slicker brush or comb to prevent mats and tangles, especially in areas where the hair is denser, such as around the face and neck.
  • Trimming: The coat can benefit from occasional hand-stripping (removing dead hair by hand) to maintain its wiry texture, but excessive grooming can soften the coat, which is not desirable in this breed.
  • Bathing: Bathing is only necessary every few months or when the dog becomes particularly dirty. Over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils, which help protect it from dirt and moisture.

Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are essential to prevent infections and overgrowth. Dental care, including weekly brushing, is important to maintain good oral health, especially since Laekenois are prone to plaque buildup.

The Belgian Laekenois has high exercise needs and requires daily physical and mental stimulation to stay balanced and content. They are not suited to a sedentary lifestyle and will become restless if not given enough exercise. Ideal forms of exercise include:

  • Long walks or runs
  • Agility courses or herding activities
  • Interactive games like fetch or scent work

In addition to physical exercise, the Laekenois thrives on mental challenges. Engaging them in activities like obedience training, puzzle toys, or canine sports helps keep them mentally sharp and prevents boredom.

The Belgian Laekenois needs a balanced diet that supports their active lifestyle and muscular build. An adult Laekenois typically requires 1,200 to 1,800 calories per day, depending on their activity level and size.

A diet rich in high-quality protein will support their muscles, while healthy fats are essential for maintaining their energy levels and promoting a healthy coat. Portion control is important, as Laekenois can gain weight if overfed, particularly if their exercise routine decreases.



Ideal Living Environment

The Belgian Laekenois thrives in homes with ample space and access to a secure yard where they can run and play. While they can adapt to suburban and urban environments, they require daily access to outdoor spaces for exercise and mental stimulation. They are not well-suited to apartment living unless their owners are committed to providing extensive exercise and enrichment.

The Laekenois’ double coat provides good protection in cool to cold climates, making them well-suited for working outdoors in cold or rainy conditions. However, in hot climates, care should be taken to avoid overheating. During warm weather, it’s important to provide shade and water and to limit strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.

With proper socialization, the Belgian Laekenois can get along well with other dogs, particularly if they are raised together. However, due to their herding instincts, they may try to herd smaller animals, such as cats or small pets, which could lead to tension in multi-pet households.



Life Stages

Laekenois puppies are energetic and curious, requiring early socialization and training to prevent behavioral issues as they mature. During this stage, it’s important to introduce them to a variety of people, environments, and other animals to help them develop into confident, well-adjusted adults.

Basic obedience training should begin early, focusing on building a solid foundation of commands and instilling good behavior habits.

In adulthood (typically between 1.5 to 7 years), the Belgian Laekenois is at its peak physical and mental capacity. Regular exercise and training are essential to keep them fit and mentally engaged. They enjoy participating in dog sports and can be trained for various working roles, such as herding, protection, or search-and-rescue.

Ongoing socialization ensures they remain confident and balanced in different environments.

As the Belgian Laekenois enters its senior years (around 8 years and older), their energy levels may decrease, but they still need regular, moderate exercise to maintain their joint health and prevent weight gain. A senior-specific diet and joint supplements can help support their aging bodies, particularly if they develop arthritis or other mobility issues.

Regular vet check-ups are important in the senior stage to monitor for age-related health issues.



Health

The Belgian Laekenois is a generally healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, but they are prone to some health issues:

  • Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition that can lead to arthritis and mobility issues in later life.
  • Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this affects the elbow joint and can cause pain and lameness.
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye condition that can lead to vision loss over time.
  • Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A potentially life-threatening condition common in large, deep-chested breeds, where the stomach twists and fills with gas.

Owners should monitor for signs of health issues, such as:

Lameness or stiffness in the joints (indicating potential dysplasia).
Night blindness or changes in vision (early symptoms of PRA).
Excessive drooling or a bloated abdomen (which could signal bloat).

Routine veterinary check-ups and screenings for hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as regular eye exams, are essential to catching health issues early. Preventing bloat through portion control and avoiding vigorous exercise immediately after meals is important.

Maintaining a healthy weight and providing joint supplements can help prevent or manage joint problems, ensuring a long, healthy life for the Belgian Laekenois.

Belgian Laekenois with a rough coat standing on grass, looking cheerful and alert.

So, you’ve decided to bring home a Belgian Laekenois puppy? Congratulations! You’ve basically signed up for a tiny tornado of energy, curiosity, and fluff. Don’t worry, though — once you’ve harnessed all that energy, you’ll have a loyal and intelligent companion for life. Here’s what you need to know to prepare for your new, scruffy bundle of joy:

  • Tire them out: Laekenois puppies have energy in spades, so make sure you’re ready for lots of playtime, training, and long walks. A bored Laekenois is like a bored toddler — they’ll find something to do, and it’s usually not something you want them doing. Keep their minds and bodies active to prevent them from becoming little home decorators (aka tearing things apart).
  • Start socializing early: While Laekenois are naturally protective, they can be a bit reserved or cautious with strangers. Early socialization is key to ensuring they grow up to be confident, well-rounded adults. Expose them to a variety of people, animals, and environments to build their confidence.
  • Secure fencing required: These dogs are agile, quick, and have a healthy sense of curiosity. If you have a yard, make sure it’s securely fenced — not just to keep them in, but to keep squirrels, rabbits, or anything else that moves safe from becoming the focus of their next sprint.
  • Consistent training: The Laekenois is smart — sometimes too smart for their own good. Consistent, positive reinforcement training is a must from day one. They learn quickly, but they also like to test boundaries, so patience and persistence will be your best tools.

The Belgian Laekenois is a dog that thrives on activity. With their intelligence, agility, and endurance, they excel in a variety of dog sports and activities. Here are a few that will keep them busy (and hopefully tire them out!):

  • Agility: Laekenois are agile and love a challenge, making them perfect candidates for agility training. This sport not only keeps them physically fit but also mentally engaged, which is crucial for such a smart breed.
  • Herding trials: While they might not be herding sheep on a daily basis anymore, the Laekenois still has those herding instincts. Herding trials allow them to use their natural skills and get a taste of the work they were bred to do.
  • Obedience and protection work: Laekenois are naturally protective and excel in obedience and protection training. They love having a job to do, and protection work allows them to use their guarding instincts in a structured environment.
  • Scent work: With their sharp noses, Laekenois are excellent at scent work. Whether it’s tracking or search-and-rescue, their keen senses and work ethic make them fantastic at this activity.

While the Belgian Laekenois isn’t as common in shelters as some other breeds, they do occasionally end up in rescue organizations, particularly if their energy levels or need for structure is misunderstood. If you’re considering adopting a Laekenois, be prepared for a dog that thrives on mental and physical stimulation.

There are several Belgian Shepherd-specific rescues that work to rehome Laekenois, and adopting one can be a rewarding experience. These dogs bond deeply with their new families and are quick to adapt to their new surroundings when given the right guidance and attention.

Fun Facts about Belgian Laekenois

  • Low-maintenance coat: While the Laekenois’ scruffy coat may look like it requires constant grooming, it’s actually relatively low-maintenance. A quick brush every now and then is enough to keep them looking their best.

  • World War Messengers: During World War I and II, Laekenois were used as messenger dogs, bravely running through battlefields to deliver crucial information. No big deal — just saving lives while looking adorable.

  • The last to the party: The Laekenois was the last of the four Belgian Shepherd varieties to be recognized by the AKC. But hey, good things come to those who wait.

Common Myths about Belgian Laekenois

Myth 1: Belgian Laekenois are just like the Malinois or Tervuren.
Not quite. While they share some similarities, each Belgian Shepherd variety has its own personality. The Laekenois is generally more laid-back than the Malinois but just as loyal and protective.

Myth 2: Their coat is difficult to manage.
False. Despite its rough appearance, the Laekenois’ coat is fairly low-maintenance. A regular brush will keep them looking great, and they don’t shed excessively.

Conclusion

The Belgian Laekenois is a breed that perfectly blends rugged work ethic with loyalty and a playful spirit. Whether they’re herding, guarding, or simply being your best companion, these dogs bring intelligence, devotion, and a unique sense of humor to everything they do.

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