ShepherdEnthusiast

Hi, I'm considering a belgian shepherd (Groenendael) as a first time dog and was wondering on people's experience with them. I understand that in Australia this particular variety of the shepherd only comes in show-lines and am cautious about the energy and temperament of the dog. Are they still active and driven like working lines or more inclined to rest for the day. I intend on making the dog a regular running partner eventually, and am a dog enthusiast so it would receive regular obedience training as well as time at the park (at least 2- 3 hours a day out of the house plus obedience work). Also, has anyone had experience with Graebelge kennels in Bunyip Victoria? or lumineux kennels. thanks

With the show-line belgian shepherds, is there as much difference between working and show lines as in the GSD? Are they still highly athletic and durable or just couch potatoes? Also, are the show lines more hyperactive and do they have an 'off-switch'? I've heard that show lines of working dogs can be more difficult than working because they have as much energy as working but with less focus etc (I've heard this of some border collies etc)

For the people who have moved to the belgian malinois, how have they fared as family companions? I looked at them initially but many said they're ill suited to family living and are predominately for working only, and can be fear-aggressive. I'm after an athletic and intelligent dog that could become a regular running partner, in conjunction with lots of time spent at the dog park and obedience training. Also, is there a great difference in temparerament between the variations of the breed, i.e groenendael, tervuren etc?

Has anyone had experience with a healthy shepherd? I feel like all I've read on the internet is of dogs with hip dysplasia, bad backs, and early deaths. Finding one that can live as a normal dog seems almost a rarity and gamble.

Are the health issues really that bad? I love the breed but am really concerned about having a puppy that can barely walk.

Hi, I was wondering if anyone had any experience with Von Zane Kennels in Victoria? I'm considering purchasing a working line shepherd from there primarily as a companion. thanks