Laekenois Breed Guide

Dec 02, 2024

Meet the Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois), the rarest and scruffiest of the Belgian Shepherd breeds, known for its loyalty, courage, and hardworking nature. If you’re after a loyal protector, a hardworking companion, and a playful friend, the Laekenois (pronounced Lak-in-wah) has got it all. Originally bred to guard sheep and linen drying in the fields, this wire-coated breed is both rugged and elegant, with a strong bond to its family and a deep instinct for guarding and herding.

THE BASICS:

Category: Herding
Size: Medium to Large (25-30 kg)
Exercise Needs: 1-2 hours per day
Grooming: Moderate maintenance, regular brushing
Coat: Rough, wiry coat
Shedding: Moderate
Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Home Needs: Medium to large home with a secure garden
Sociability: Devoted to family, good with children, can be wary of strangers

HISTORY: A HARDWORKING SHEPHERD WITH NOBLE ROOTS

The Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) is one of four distinct types of Belgian Shepherds, the others being the Malinois, Tervuren, and Groenendael. While each type has its own unique traits, the Laekenois stands out with its distinctive rough, wiry coat. The breed hails from Belgium, where it was primarily used as a herding and guarding dog, particularly in the region of Laeken, which gave the breed its name.

The Laekenois was trusted to guard flocks of sheep, and it also had an unusual job: protecting drying linens in the fields from being stolen! During World War I and II, they were also used as messenger dogs, proving their versatility and bravery.

Today, while they’re not as common as the other Belgian Shepherds, the Laekenois remains a popular choice for people looking for a hardworking and protective dog that’s also affectionate with its family.

LAEKENOIS PERSONALITY: PROTECTIVE, LOYAL, AND FULL OF ENERGY

The Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) is known for its devotion and loyalty to its family. This breed forms strong bonds and is always looking to protect its loved ones. Laekenois dogs are protective without being overly aggressive, but they can be wary of strangers. Early socialisation is key to ensuring they’re confident and well-adjusted in new situations.

With family members, Laekenois dogs are playful and affectionate, thriving on interaction and activity. They’re brilliant with children when raised alongside them, and their high intelligence makes them quick learners. However, they do have a strong work ethic, so they need a family that can provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation. If they don’t have enough to do, they may start finding their own ways to entertain themselves, which might not always align with your ideas of a peaceful home!

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A LAEKENOIS NEED?

The Laekenois is a pooch that thrives on exercise and activity. They need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise per day to stay happy and healthy. Long walks, runs, or hiking adventures are great, but they really love tasks that challenge their minds as well as their bodies. Whether it’s herding trials, obedience training, or agility, this breed excels when given a purpose.

These pooches love to run and explore, but because of their strong protective instincts, it’s important to ensure they have plenty of off-lead exercise in a secure area. A fenced garden is ideal for playtime, but they’ll need to be regularly challenged with activities that engage their sharp minds and eager bodies.

For keeping your Laekenois fuelled during all this activity, Scrumbles Dry Dog Food and Scrumbles Wet Dog Food are perfect options. They provide a nutritious balance of proteins and fats to support an active lifestyle while maintaining optimal digestive health.

HOW TO GROOM A LAEKENOIS: KEEP THAT SCRUFF IN SHAPE

The Laekenois is known for its rough, wiry coat, which gives them their rugged, scruffy look. While it’s not high maintenance compared to some other breeds, their coat does need regular care to stay in top condition. Aim to brush them at least once or twice a week to remove loose fur and prevent mats from forming.

Their coat tends to shed moderately, so brushing will help keep your home a little less furry. The breed’s wiry coat is naturally dirt-resistant, so you won’t need to bathe them too often—just when they’re particularly muddy after outdoor adventures.

Like other breeds with floppy ears, the Laekenois can be prone to ear infections. Regular ear checks and cleaning are essential, especially after they’ve been running around in the great outdoors. For a healthy coat and skin, try feeding them Scrumbles Salmon Dry Dog Food, which is packed with Omega 3 and 6 to keep that rugged coat in tip-top shape.

HEALTH: STURDY BUT KEEP AN EYE ON THE JOINTS

The Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) is generally a healthy breed, but like all medium to large dogs, they can suffer from a few common health concerns. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common in active, larger breeds, so it’s important to keep them at a healthy weight and provide them with proper nutrition.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is another condition to watch for, which can affect their eyesight as they age. Regular vet check-ups can help catch any potential issues early.

Because of their intelligence and eagerness to work, Laekenois dogs are also prone to boredom if not given enough mental stimulation. Regular exercise, training sessions, and interactive toys will help keep them mentally fit and prevent destructive behaviours.

A diet like Scrumbles Poultry Wet Dog Food or Scrumbles Salmon Dry Dog Food will provide the nutrients needed to support their joints, immune system, and overall health, keeping them ready for action.

If your Laekenois has any trouble with dental health, Scrumbles Gnashers are a great way to keep their teeth clean and strong while also giving them a tasty chew!

FUN FACTS ABOUT THE BELGIAN SHEPHERD DOG (LAEKENOIS)

The Rare One: Of the four types of Belgian Shepherds, the Laekenois is the rarest and least known, but their unique wiry coat makes them stand out!
Versatile Workers: Laekenois dogs have been used as herding dogs, guard dogs, and even messenger dogs during wartime. Talk about a CV!
Rugged but Elegant: Despite their scruffy appearance, the Laekenois moves with elegance and grace, especially when they’re on the job.

LIVING WITH A LAEKENOIS: LOYAL, ACTIVE, AND FUN

The Laekenois is an excellent choice for active families or individuals who want a devoted, hardworking companion. They love having a purpose, whether that’s herding livestock, protecting the home, or being the star of a local agility trial. However, they aren’t couch potatoes—this breed thrives on physical exercise and mental challenges, so they need an owner who can keep up with their energy and provide plenty of activities.

With the right care, exercise, and training, the Laekenois will reward you with years of loyal companionship. They’re fantastic with children and other pets, but because of their protective nature, early socialisation is essential to help them feel comfortable around strangers and new experiences.

For rewarding their hard work, Scrumbles Training Treats are perfect for reinforcing good behaviour or just giving them a tasty snack after a day of exercise.

The Best Food For Laekenois Dogs

Looking for the best food for your Belgian Shepherd? We’ve got your back (and your dog’s bowl). All our recipes are suitable for all breeds and lifestages including your Laekenois, so here's why our recipes are worthy of your pooch:

High-Quality Ingredients: Laekenois dogs are like the Olympic athletes of the dog world—active, hardworking, and always on the go. They need food that works as hard as they do. Our Chicken Dry Dog Food is packed with top-notch protein and natural ingredients to fuel their busy days, from herding sheep to herding you off the sofa.
Coat and Skin Support: Let’s talk about that signature wiry coat. It’s weatherproof, yes, but it also needs a little TLC. Our Salmon Dry Dog Food, rich in omegas, helps keep their coat looking sharp and their skin healthy—because even tough-working dogs deserve to look fabulous.
Digestibility: Laekenois might be tough on the outside, but their tummies can be a little delicate. That’s why we pack every recipe with gut-loving prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Healthy digestion means they get the most out of their food (and you get less mess to clean up). If your Laekenois has a particularly fussy gut, our Sensitive Stomach Dog Food is a lifesaver.
Joint and Mobility Support: These dogs are built to move, so keeping their joints in good shape is crucial. Our Salmon Dry Dog Food is enriched with a joint care mix including glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM for healthy joints.

IS THE BELGIAN SHEPHERD DOG (LAEKENOIS) THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU?

If you’re after a loyal, intelligent, and hardworking companion with a dash of scruffy charm, the Laekenois might just be your perfect match. These energetic dogs thrive in active homes where they can put their brains and brawn to good use, whether that’s through exercise, training, or canine sports.

Protective yet playful, they’re natural watchdogs who balance affection with a healthy dose of vigilance. With plenty of stimulation and a sense of purpose, a Laekenois will be your devoted sidekick for years to come. Ready for wagging tails and endless loyalty? This remarkable breed delivers it all!