Have you ever heard of a dog breed that is so intelligent, it learns faster than many popular breeds? This is a breed that is highly active, loves to play, and feels most comfortable around its human family? That’s a Belgian Tervuren for you. This breed of dogs is commonly identified with its long and thick coats, perky ears, and watchful eyes that denote keen observation.
Named after a Belgium village, Belgian Tervurens, or Tervs as commonly nicknamed, are known for their ability to learn tricks and undertake tasks rapidly. They are a part of the shepherd dog family and are highly skilled at herding animals such as sheep or guarding properties or families.
Now a common perception that looms around is: Are Belgian Tervurens aggressive? To answer that, we need to understand that every dog, like humans, has a unique temperament. But yes, there are some common behavioral traits of Tervs that we can delve into.
These dogs are confident, protective, and vigilant. They are instinctively territorial and can become impatient when put in a new environment or introduced to unfamiliar faces. Their first response may appear aggressive as they are naturally prone to assessing risk before warming up to people or situations. This observation might lead some to misconstrue them as aggressive, which isn’t always the case. It’s more about their protective nature rather than innate aggression.
In addition, Tervs tend to have a high energy level. They need a lot of physical and mental activities to use that energy constructively. Without a proper outlet for their vigorous nature, they could develop behavioral problems. For example, you might find them chewing on your favorite shoes, breaking things around the house, or barking incessantly. This destructive behavior may seem aggressive, but it’s more due to pent-up energy and lack of proper physical and mental stimulation.
As a prospective or current Belgian Tervuren owner, here’s the good news. You can help your Terv settle into its behavior with proper training and socialization, significantly curbing any perceived aggression down to a minimum. Early socialization is crucial for this breed since it helps them get used to a mix of different people, animals, and environments. Additionally, consistent training from a young age can go a long way in shaping the behavior of Tervs. They respond well to a positive and firm training approach.
However, it’s essential to note that Belgian Tervurens are not the best breed for first-time dog owners due to their high activity levels and need for consistent training. They match better with owners who genuinely understand animal behaviors and have a knack for dog training.
Moreover, if your Terv shows signs of unexplained aggression, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional. A trained dog behaviorist can help assess the reasons behind such behaviors and guide you on how to manage it. Also, if the aggression seems linked to certain triggers like food, toys, or specific situations, this professional can help identify those triggers and devise ways to handle the situation safely.
While Belgian Tervurens may come across as aggressive due to their alertness and active nature, labeling them as ‘an aggressive breed’ would be untrue. Like every breed, they have sets of behaviors that can be managed and shaped, and they do have the potential to be wonderfully protective, family-loving, and fun companions in the right hands.
So to wrap it up, Tervurens’ behavioral traits could sometimes be misconstrued as aggression due to their instinctive protective nature. But with the proper training, early socialization, and in the hands of a responsible owner, they can be loving, loyal, and versatile companions. As charming as they are, Tervs are indeed worth the effort!
