The Groenendael is one of four types of dogs from Belgium known as the Belgian Shepherd Dogs, the other three being the Laekenois, Malinois, and Tervuren. In some countries, each type is recognized as its own breed, while in others they are all simply a different variety of the same standard. Of these four types, the most popular, and therefore common, is the Groenendael.

Groenendaels are a medium sized dog that stand between 22-26 inches and weigh in at 61-63 pounds. They have a long, thin, double coat that is even thicker around the shoulders, neck, and chest forming a ruff. They have prick ears, a feathered tail, and a long muzzle. Although true Groenendaels are completely black, it is not unlikely for a brown and black Tervuren to be born in a Groenendael litter. As with all Belgian Shepherd Dogs, the original history of the Groenendael has been lost in time. It is believed that these types of dogs have existed throughout Belgium, and much of Europe since the Middle Ages. True selective breeding began in the late 1800s, when individual breeds were being listed into a group of dogs known as the Continental Shepherds. This group included German, French, and Dutch shepherd dogs, which included other breeds such as the German Shepherd Dog, Beauceron, the Bouviers, Dutch Shepherd Dog, and Briard. Eventually a club known as the Club du Chien de Berger Belge (Belgian Shepherd Club) was formed and they began the process of finding and breeding dogs that were found only in Belgium. The Groenendael specifically was developed by Nicholas Rose, in the town of Groenendael, from where the breed gets its name.

The Groenendael is a highly intelligent, obedient dog that can be easy to train with an experienced, dominate owner. Early socialization is also a must, as this is a very protective breed if not socialized it can lead to issues later. This breed is mostly a companion dog, although they still can be found working with livestock, and are frequently used by law enforcement and the military as well, particularly in their homeland. If socialized Groenendaels generally get along with children and other pets, but tend to show dominance toward other dogs.
Groenendaels can adapt to apartment life, provided they receive plenty of exercise. They do best with a yard, but if taken on daily long walks they can do without one. They are happy when given a task to do, and excel at sports such as agility.

Generally a hardy breed, the Groenendael has few major health issues. Minor concerns are skin allergies, eye problems, hip and elbow dysplasia. Life expectancy is around 12-13 years.

The coat of a Groenendael requires daily brushing to avoid matting. They are also heavy shedders, and shed their coat twice a year.