Belgian Shepherd (Laekenois)
Male: 25-30 kg, Female: 20-25 kg
Male: 60-66 cm, Female: 56-62 cm at the shoulder
10-14 years
Belgium
About the Belgian Shepherd (Laekenois)
The Belgian Shepherd (Laekenois) is the rarest of the four Belgian Shepherd varieties, distinguished by its unique rough, wiry coat and rustic appearance. Unlike its smooth or long-haired cousins, the Laekenois was traditionally utilized not only for herding sheep but also for guarding valuable linen drying in the sun at the Royal Chateau of Laeken. It is a square-proportioned, hardy dog that embodies strength and elegance without heaviness. This breed is renowned for its intense loyalty and keen intelligence, often described as 'always in motion' when working. While they are deeply affectionate with their immediate family, they maintain a watchful and sometimes reserved demeanor with strangers. Their high trainability and athletic prowess make them exceptional candidates for advanced dog sports, including agility, obedience, and tracking.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Laekenois is celebrated for its 'rustic' elegance and its distinctive wiry, tousled coat which must never appear curly or silky. Its movement is effortless and ground-covering, characterized by a light-footed gait that suggests tireless endurance. Its dark, almond-shaped eyes possess an unparalleled intensity and 'enquiring' expression that captures the very soul of the working Belgian breeds.
Bred For
Herding sheep and guarding fields used for drying linen.
Temperament
Alert, intelligent, protective, courageous, and highly devoted to its family.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Grooming Needs
Moderate; requires regular brushing and professional hand-stripping twice a year to maintain coat texture.
Good with Kids
Good with children, especially when raised with them; best suited for older, dog-savvy children due to high energy.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs if socialized early; may exhibit high prey drive toward smaller animals.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please; requires consistent, positive-reinforcement training and a confident handler.
Coat & Colours
Rough, wiry, and dry texture; approximately 6cm in length.. Fawn with black overlay (charbonné), primarily around the muzzle and tail.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Laekenois is a high-octane working breed that requires a dedicated owner. They are more likely to experience hip and elbow dysplasia—while not every dog is affected, choosing breeders who score joints is vital. Because they are deep-chested, they are predisposed to bloat (GDV); feeding smaller, frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise after eating can help manage this risk. Their unique rough coat is prone to matting if not brushed, and it requires hand-stripping twice a year to remain healthy—owners should be prepared for this specific grooming demand. As a herding breed, they can have a high prey drive and may attempt to 'herd' moving objects or children, which can be managed with focused training. They are 'velcro dogs' and can be predisposed to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods without mental engagement. Some Belgian Shepherds are more likely to have sensitive digestive systems and may develop skin irritations or gas when fed low-quality commercial fillers; they often thrive and show improved skin health when transitioned to a clean, fresh raw diet like Majestik.
Feeding Guide for Your Belgian Shepherd (Laekenois)
Healthy Weight
20-30 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
500-750 grams
Adult Laekenois should be fed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight in fresh food daily. For a 25kg dog, this equates to 500g to 750g per day, split into two meals. Puppies and highly active working dogs may require up to 4-5% of their body weight.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
Highly digestible, high-protein diet rich in omega fatty acids for skin health; thrives on fresh, raw whole foods.
A balanced raw diet for a Laekenois should include lean proteins like Majestik Kangaroo or Beef to maintain muscle mass without excess weight. g., chicken necks or lamb ribs), and 10% organ meat (liver and kidney). Inclusion of green tripe is excellent for digestive enzymes, while leafy greens and blueberries provide essential antioxidants. Because they are predisposed to joint issues, supplements like green-lipped mussel or Majestik’s omega-rich fish oils are highly recommended.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Belgian Shepherd (Laekenois) Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Belgian Shepherd (Laekenois)? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-10 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.