As of: March 6, 2024, 12:18 p.m
By: Sandra Barbara Furtner
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If you like the rough-haired version of the Belgian Shepherd, you might like the Laekenois.
A loyal companion who also does well as a film dog.
The Laekenois (pronounced “La-ken-wa”) is a unique four-legged friend that is becoming increasingly popular due to its appearance and excellent characteristics - but is not that common.
It is a variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog and is also the rarest.
In addition to the German Shepherd, the Belgian Shepherd is also one of the most intelligent dog breeds.
In comparison, the Belgians are slightly more delicate and narrowly built.
Overall, their body structure is considered to be somewhat more harmonious.
This means they are said to be faster and much more maneuverable than their counterparts.
The Belgian Shepherd Dog comes in four different varieties.
The best-known representative is probably the Malinois - the varieties differ visually in their fur structure:
Groenendael (black, long fur)
Tervueren (reddish brown/fauve, long fur, black mask)
Malinois (short-haired, reddish brown/fauve, black mask)
Laekenois or Laeken (wire-haired, reddish brown/fauve, black mask)
The Laekenois is one of the four Belgians and has its origins in Laeken (Brussels, Belgium).
The breed is believed to have been recognized in the late 19th century and owes its name to this region.
She was originally bred to help guard sheep and other farm animals.
Their duties ranged from chasing thieves to looking after livestock.
Characteristics that distinguish the Laekenois
The Laekenois as a puppy and as an adult dog.
© agefotostock/Imago
The Laekenois is a medium-sized dog breed with an athletic build.
The coat is wiry and rough, which sets it apart from other Belgian Shepherds, which tend to have longer, silkier coats.
His appearance is characterized by a confident, alert expression and an elegant appearance.
He is known for his intelligence and his willingness to learn.
This breed is extremely energetic and needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
It is particularly suitable for dog sports such as agility and obedience.
Laekenois are extremely loyal and fiercely protective of their family, but are not necessarily suitable for beginners.
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What should you pay attention to when choosing a dog breed?
If you are considering keeping a Laekenois four-legged friend as a family member, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Exercise and activity:
Laekenois are extremely energetic and require a lot of exercise.
Daily walks, playtime, and mental challenges are a must.
Socialization:
They can behave shyly around strangers, so early socialization is important to prevent unwanted behavior.
Care:
The coat requires regular brushing or trimming to prevent matting.
They shed all year round, so consistent grooming is required.
Training:
Because of their intelligence, consistent, positive reinforcement during training is essential.
Who is the Laekenois suitable for?
The Laekenois is suitable for active, experienced dog owners who can invest time and energy in training and exercise.
It is suitable for families looking for a dedicated pet, but also for individuals who love sporting activities with their four-legged friend.
If you're ready to take on the challenge, the loyal dog offers plenty of love that lasts a lifetime.
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frequently asked Questions
Are Laekenois easy to train?
They are intelligent and willing to learn, which makes them ideal for training.
However, consistency and positive reinforcement are crucial.
Do Laekenois need a lot of exercise?
Laekenois are extremely active and require extensive exercise and mental stimulation every day.
Are Laekenois good family dogs?
They can be great family dogs provided they receive the attention and exercise they need.
This article was created using machine assistance and was carefully reviewed by editor Sandra Furtner before publication.