Belgian Groenendael

The Groenendael is the long-haired black variety of the Belgian Shepherd. It is named after the village of Groenendael near Brussels, where a breeder established the type in the late 19th century.

Like the other Belgian Shepherds, it herded livestock before becoming a police, sport and family dog.

Quick, attentive and very sensitive, the Groenendael forms a strong bond with its owner. It is watchful and protective and can be reserved with strangers.

It learns fast but needs gentle, consistent training and early socialisation to avoid shyness or nervousness.

This is a generally healthy breed. Hip and elbow dysplasia, some eye conditions and epilepsy have been reported in Belgian Shepherds.

Choose a breeder who screens their dogs, and keep up regular veterinary check-ups.

Good-quality food matched to its activity keeps it athletic. A sporting dog needs more than a companion dog.

Avoid intense exercise straight after meals.

It needs one to two hours of activity a day, combining running, games and mental work (obedience, agility, tracking).

Without a job, it may develop anxious or destructive behaviour.

Schedule walks very early in the morning and in the evening, and keep it in the shade and somewhere cool during the hot hours. Do not shave it: the coat also protects it from the sun.

Its long black coat needs brushing two to three times a week, and daily during the moult.

Focus behind the ears, under the legs and on the 'trousers', where tangles form.