Discover the Best Dog Breeds from Belgium – Loyal, Smart & Versatile

Belgium is home to some truly remarkable dog breeds, many of which were originally bred for herding, guarding, and farm work. Over time, some became beloved companions, excelling as watchdogs, rat hunters, and even royal lapdogs. Whether you're looking for an active working breed or a devoted family pet, Belgian dogs offer a variety of personalities and skills.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable dog breeds from Belgium and what makes them so special.

Belgian Laekenois

The Belgian Laekenois (pronounced lak-in-wah) is one of four closely related Belgian shepherd breeds—the others being the Belgian Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, and Belgian Tervuren. These dogs share a similar build and were bred for herding and guarding livestock, but what sets the Laekenois apart is its distinctive wiry coat, which gives it a scruffy, tousled look.

This breed is the rarest of the Belgian shepherds and gets its name from the town of Laeken in the Brussels region. Known for being alert, protective, and affectionate, the Laekenois forms a strong bond with its family and thrives in an active home. In the United States, it is recognized in the AKC Herding Group.

Breed Overview

• Group: Herding

• Height: 24 to 26 inches (males), 22 to 24 inches (females)

• Weight: 55 to 65 pounds

• Coat: Medium-length, wiry double coat

• Coat Color: Red, fawn, or gray with black shading on the muzzle and tail

• Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois, named after the Malines region near Brussels, is perhaps the most recognizable of the Belgian shepherds, thanks to its frequent use in military and police work. Originally bred as a herding and farm dog, the Malinois is the only Belgian shepherd breed with a short coat, making it easier to maintain than its long-haired cousins.

Often mistaken for a German Shepherd, the Malinois has a more compact, square-shaped build and is known for its exceptional drive, intelligence, and energy levels. These dogs require structured training, plenty of exercise, and mental challenges to thrive. In the U.S., the Malinois is part of the AKC Herding Group.

Breed Overview

• Group: Herding

• Height: 22 to 26 inches

• Weight: 50 to 80 pounds

• Coat: Short double coat

• Coat Color: Rich fawn to mahogany with black mask and ears

• Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years

Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael)

The Belgian Sheepdog, also known as the Groenendael (pronounced Groan-en-dahl), is the only Belgian shepherd breed with a long, solid black coat. Named after the village of Groenendael, this breed was originally bred for herding sheep and cattle, but it also excelled in police and military work.

Today, the Belgian Sheepdog remains highly versatile, working in search and rescue, service and therapy roles, and competitive dog sports like obedience and agility. Known for its elegance, intelligence, and loyalty, this breed is a great choice for experienced owners who can meet its high-energy needs.

Breed Overview

• Group: Herding

• Height: 22 to 26 inches

• Weight: 55 to 75 pounds (male), 45 to 60 pounds (female)

• Coat: Thick double coat, always black

• Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years

Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren looks very similar to the Belgian Sheepdog, with the same long, double coat, but instead of being solid black, its fur comes in beautiful shades of fawn to mahogany with black overlay. Named after the village of Tervuren, this breed was developed for herding and guarding, just like its shepherd relatives.

Tervurens are affectionate, energetic, and highly intelligent, but they can also be possessive and demanding when it comes to their human family. They require plenty of exercise, training, and socialization to channel their energy productively. The Belgian Tervuren is part of the AKC Herding Group.

Breed Overview

• Group: Herding

• Height: 24 to 26 inches (males), 22 to 24 inches (females)

• Weight: 55 to 75 pounds (males), 45 to 60 pounds (females)

• Coat: Thick, double coat

• Coat Color: Red, fawn, or gray with black shading and black muzzle

• Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years

Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres comes from the Flanders region of Belgium and was bred as an all-purpose farm dog. Larger and more powerful than most herding breeds, the Bouvier is known for its shaggy, rough double coat and calm, steady demeanor.

Unlike some high-energy herding breeds, Bouviers are typically more laid-back, though they still require early socialization, consistent training, and regular activity. In the United States, they are part of the AKC Herding Group.

Breed Overview

• Group: Herding

• Height: 23.5 to 27.5 inches

• Weight: 70 to 100 pounds

• Coat: Long, rough double coat

• Coat Color: Black, salt and pepper, gray, fawn, or brindle

• Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon may be the smallest Belgian breed, but it has a huge personality. Originally bred as a ratter in horse stables, this scrappy little dog became a royal favorite in the 1870s when Belgium’s Queen Henrietta Maria fell in love with the breed.

With its adorable scruffy face, soulful eyes, and affectionate nature, the Brussels Griffon is now the ultimate lap dog and companion. However, it thrives on human attention and does poorly when left alone for long periods.

Breed Overview

• Group: Toy

• Height: 7 to 10 inches

• Weight: 6 to 12 pounds

• Coat: Smooth or rough

• Coat Color: Red, black and tan, solid black, or belge (mix of black and reddish brown)

• Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years

Final Thoughts

Belgium has given us some truly incredible dog breeds, ranging from highly skilled working dogs to devoted companion pets. Whether you're drawn to the protective Malinois, the elegant Belgian Sheepdog, or the feisty Brussels Griffon, each of these breeds has something unique to offer.

Looking for a loyal, intelligent, and hardworking dog? A Belgian breed might be the perfect fit for you!