The name of this breed is pronounced Laekenwa, as is the other Belgian shepherd the Malinois pronounced malinwa.
All four Belgian shepherd dogs are intelligent, alert and respond well to training, but the Laekenois can be more sensitive and prone to anxiety if not socialised and given basic training, according to owners of this rare dog breed.
The American Kennel Club recognises the four types of Belgian shepherds as separate breeds, but others do not.
The Laekenois are known for their loyalty and protective instincts which makes them excellent guard dogs. They are still used as police dogs today.
In appearance this dog is distinguished by its curly coat and somewhat charmingly, tussled appearance.
They have a distinctive beard on the muzzle and come in shades of fawn and red. Many have traces of black on the muzzle and tail.
The coat may look like a poodle, but they are not considered hypoallergic, it is a double coat and sheds, although less than some other double coated breeds.
The undercoat is soft while the top coat is wiry, which requires at least a weekly brush.
The Laekenois dog’s claim to fame originated in the Laeken area of Belgium, specifically the Chateau de Laeken where Queen Marie Henrietta resided and owned a few of these dogs that guarded their sheep and protected the Chateau from intruders.
These dogs also served as messenger dogs during times of war.
These dogs were used for herding cattle as well, and as pets they may try to herd up other pets, including children, and they have been known to nip at heels.
They are very trainable but do not respond to authoritarian or dominant training methods.
The Laekenois may suffer the same possible diseases as other Belgian shepherd dogs such as epilepsy, allergies, eye disease, hip and elbow dysplasia.
Generally, they are healthy and may live 12-15 years.
