Belgian Laekenois, a Unique Dog Breed, Faces Extinction with Only 1,000 Remaining Worldwide
A once-popular dog breed, the Belgian Laekenois, known for its sheep herding abilities, is now facing the threat of extinction with only around 1,000 remaining worldwide. A passionate advocate for this unique breed has taken to TikTok to raise awareness about the Belgian Laekenois, prononunced “Lak-in-wah.” The woman behind the account @TheDoomydogs has captured the attention of dog lovers, sparking engaging conversations in the comments section where users share anecdotes of their own rare canine companions.
The Belgian Laekenois is the least common of the four Belgian Shepherd dogs, making them exceptionally rare compared to their counterparts. Efforts are underway to protect this breed, evidenced by the American Kennel Club’s recognition of the Belgian Laekenois in 2020 and initiatives to establish responsible breeding programmes to safeguard their future. With only a few thousand of these dogs left globally, and an estimated 200 residing in the US, the urgency to preserve the breed is evident.
To raise the visibility of the Belgian Laekenois, ParadePets has been sharing various clips showcasing these lively dogs in action, whether at play, work, or bonding moments. Their distinctive rough, wiry, and curly coats, often in red or fawn hues with black speckles, set them apart from their Malinois, Tervuren, and Sheepdog relatives. Named after the town of Laeken, closely tied to their origin, these dogs have historically been bred for tasks like herding, hunting, and even serving as messenger dogs during wartime.
The Laekenois breed, characterised by a medium to large build, demands meticulous grooming due to their unique coats and requires a solid two hours of daily exercise. @TheDoomydogs emphasises the importance of mental stimulation for these dogs to prevent undesirable behaviours stemming from boredom. While the breed is recognised for its protectiveness, loyalty, affection, and intelligence, their need for mental engagement and strong work ethic can make them a handful for some owners.
Despite their protective instincts and low prey drive, Laekenois dogs may exhibit herding behaviours or even mild aggression if not adequately exercised. Known for their vigilance, particularly at night when assessing potential threats, this breed has gained popularity since being standardised in the late 19th century. Today, Belgian Laekenois serve various roles, from family pets to service dogs, with a historical connection to Belgian Queen Marie Henriette, who took delight in observing them work with shepherds.
In conclusion, the plight of the Belgian Laekenois serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between preserving rare breeds and ensuring their future survival. With dedicated advocates and growing awareness, there is hope that these unique dogs will continue to enchant and contribute to the world of canine companionship for generations to come.
As efforts intensify to protect and promote the Belgian Laekenois, their distinctive attributes and historical significance remain a testament to the enduring bond between humans and their faithful canine companions.