Seven Native Dogs of Belgium: Discover Beautiful Belgian Breeds

1. Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is the most well-known of the Belgian Shepherd varieties, and it’s not hard to see why. Sleek, smart, and strong, this breed is a favourite of police forces and militaries around the world. But don’t be fooled into thinking they’re all work and no play. These dogs are full of energy, loyalty, and affection for their humans.

Originating in the city of Malines (Mechelen in Dutch), the Malinois was bred for herding sheep. Today, they’ve transferred that drive and intelligence into service work, agility competitions, and high-energy homes. With a short, fawn-coloured coat and black mask, they look striking – the perfect subjects for Belgian Malinois art.

This breed thrives on mental stimulation and needs a job to do. If you’re not planning on entering a sheepdog trial, regular obedience training, scent work, or a good game of fetch will keep them sharp and happy. They’re not ideal for first-time dog owners or those with a laid-back lifestyle, but for an experienced dog person, the Malinois is a great dog. And for those who admire from afar? Our original dog prints of the Malinois capture all that focus and finesse in a fun way.

2. Belgian Tervuren

Elegant, intelligent, and effortlessly beautiful, the Belgian Tervuren is another Belgian Shepherd. Known for their longer coats with a black overlay, they’re the artists’ muse of the canine world – and an absolute joy to draw. No surprise then that they feature in my Belgian dog wall art collection.

Tervurens are thinkers. They’re intuitive and sensitive, and form deep bonds with their families. But don’t expect a couch potato – these dogs love to work. They shine in obedience, herding, tracking, and even therapy roles. It’s important to keep them both physically and mentally engaged, or else that clever brain of theirs might invent their own version of fun (usually involving your socks).

Historically, they were used for both herding and guarding flocks in the village of Tervuren. Today, they make devoted companions and protective watchdogs. With their flowing coats and intense gaze, they make stunning subjects for original dog prints that blend power and grace in every line.

3. Belgian Laekenois

The rarest of the Belgian Shepherds, the Laekenois (pronounced “Lak-in-wah”) is a true hidden gem. With its rough, tousled coat and loyal nature, it’s a breed full of character and charm. Originally used to guard linen drying in the fields around the Royal Castle of Laeken, these dogs were trusted protectors with a keen eye and brave heart.

Their rough coat, the hallmark of the breed, gives them a scruffy, endearing look that stands out among their more polished cousins. But don’t let the tousled hair fool you: these dogs are alert, agile, and ready for action. Laekenois are incredibly loyal, forming deep attachments to their families and being naturally reserved with strangers.

They’re best suited to active homes where they can be both physically and mentally challenged. Think long walks, scent games, and structured training. And yes, they may be rare, but that just makes them all the more special as a subject for Belgian dog wall art. When you want your home to reflect not just your love of dogs, but your appreciation for the uncommon and unique, a Belgian Laekenois print is just the thing.

4. Belgian Sheepdog (Groenendael)

The Belgian Sheepdog or Groenendael is often described as the most striking of the Belgian Shepherd family, all-black, elegant, and with a coat that flows like silk in the breeze. These dogs are intelligent, protective, and incredibly devoted. Named after the village of Groenendael near Brussels, they were bred to herd sheep and guard the farm.

Today, they remain alert and responsive companions who love to work. Like their fellow shepherd cousins, the Groenendael needs daily stimulation and consistent training. Without it, their quick minds and strong instincts can get the better of them.

Physically, they’re a showstopper. With their dark eyes and majestic coats, they look like something out of a fairy tale. And they’re just as lovely on the inside, affectionate, eager to please, and deeply loyal. It’s no wonder they’re a favourite for our original dog art prints, capturing the drama and grace of this noble breed.

5. Bouvier des Flandres

Big, brawny, and bearded – the Bouvier des Flandres is a proper working dog with a heart of gold. Originating in the Flanders region (shared with parts of France), these dogs were bred for herding cattle, pulling carts, and guarding the farm. They’re all-rounders, capable of doing just about anything you ask of them.

Bouviers have a thick double coat that gives them a slightly shaggy look, along with a serious moustache and beard that add to their rugged charm. But under all that fluff is a strong, muscular dog with surprising agility. They’re calm, loyal, and incredibly brave, making them excellent companions and even better protectors.

Despite their size, Bouviers can be gentle giants in the home, especially with the right training and socialisation. They thrive in active homes with ample space to stretch their legs and a job to do. I love capturing their stoic expressions and big-hearted personalities, and have designed the Bouvier des Flandres Appreciation Society wall art print for dog lovers.

6. Schipperke

Don’t let the small size fool you – the Schipperke packs a punch of personality in a compact, fox-like frame. Known affectionately in Belgium as “Little Captain” or “Little Shepherd,” the Schipperke was originally bred to guard barges and canal boats in the Low Countries, particularly around Brussels. Small but mighty, these dogs were prized for their alertness, independence, and ability to keep vermin in check.

Their jet-black coats, pricked ears, and bright eyes give them a mischievous look that perfectly matches their cheeky nature. Schipperkes are curious, confident, and always on the go. They’re known to be excellent watchdogs despite their size, and will happily sound the alarm if anything seems amiss. But they’re also deeply loyal and affectionate with their families.

The Schipperke thrives in households where they can explore, problem-solve, and play. They’re clever, sometimes to a fault, and need regular mental stimulation to keep them out of trouble. Don’t be surprised if they figure out how to open cupboard doors or hide your socks for a laugh. Their bold presence and bright expressions make them popular choices. I’ve created some original dog prints of the Schipperke, available in the shop. Perfect for dog for lovers of small breeds with big attitudes.

7. Brussels Griffon

Charming, comical, and full of character, the Brussels Griffon is a proud native of Belgium. These toy-sized companions have adorable monkey-like faces and are bursting with affection and personality. The breed originated in Brussels during the 19th century and was developed by crossing small terrier-like dogs with toy breeds such as the Pug and the King Charles Spaniel.

There are three closely related types:

• the Brussels Griffon (with a rough coat)
• the Petit Brabançon (with a smooth coat)
• the Belgian Griffon

Originally bred to keep stables free of rats, they eventually found favour with the Belgian upper classes and even royalty.

These dogs are fiercely loyal and tend to attach themselves to one person, following them closely. They love attention and display expressive behaviours, often resembling human emotions, such as tilting their heads or throwing dramatic doggy tantrums.

Their expressive faces, big eyes, and quizzical eyebrows make them stars in the Belgian dog wall art collection.