QUESTIONS
1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)
First time owner of this breed
2. Where and why was the breed first developed?
Initially defined amongst the greatly differing herding dogs of Belgium in the late 1800s
3. How common is it in Australia?
Not very common, but they are around
4. What is the average lifespan?
12-15 years from what I've read
5. What is the general temperament/personality?
Wary of strangers initially, constantly busy, playful and cheeky, strong desire to please, can be destructive if not stimulated enough (mental stimulation is needed as much as physical). VERY intelligent and respond quickly to training if done correctly.
6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?
Not 100% sure yet as mine is not yet an adult but going on what she requires now I would say at least a half an hour to an hour walk each day with mental stimulation also.
7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?
Probably not an ideal first dog.
8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?
Not recommended as they can become destructive without enough mental stimulation
9. How much grooming is required?
Surprisingly less than you would think, as far as tervurens and groenendaels are concerned, only a decent brush once maybe twice a week unless shedding. (I am unsure of what a laekenois grooming requirements would be and could only assume that a malenois would require the least).
10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?
As puppies they do have a very strong tendency to jump when excited and due to the fact that they grow quite quickly they could unintentionally knock small children over. Other than this though, they are good with children with regards to their temperament if they are introduced to them regularly as puppies.
11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?
Hip and Elbow scores of the parents should be checked, the breeder should also ask if either parent has suffered seisures and the parents should have their eyes tested for PRA too
12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)
Personally I wouldn't buy a puppy that had parents with scores of over 8 in their hips (prefer under 5) and 1 in elbows. Their eyes should be rated "clear"
