The Laekenois is one of four types of dog from Belgium known as the Belgian Shepherd Dogs, the other three being the Groenendael, Malinois, and Tervuren. The Laekenois is the most rare of the four, and is the only one that does not have full recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

A medium sized dog, the Laekenois stands between 22-26 inches and weighing in at 61-63 pounds. Their wiry, harsh coat can range from cream to tan to mahogany, and sometimes with a black mask, reminiscent of the Malinois. The tail of the Laekenois is long and bushy, but without a distinct feathering.

The history of the Laekenois is shared with the other Belgian Shepherd Dogs, although it is believed it is the oldest of the four. Traditionally these dogs were used with livestock, but unlike its “cousins” had another task it was often used for, guarding crops and linens that were left out in the sun. The shaggy, Laekenois was once a favorite of Queen Henrietta of Belgium, and was named after the Chateau de Laeken, a place she often visited.

*For information on temperament, health, and care, see Groenendael.