Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison

Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) is originated from Belgium but Cao de Fila da Terceira is originated from Portugal. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) may grow 9 cm / 4 inches higher than Cao de Fila da Terceira. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) may weigh 46 kg / 101 pounds lesser than Cao de Fila da Terceira. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) and Cao de Fila da Terceira has same life span. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) and Cao de Fila da Terceira has almost same litter size. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) requires Moderate Maintenance. But Cao de Fila da Terceira requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Molosser dogs
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Belgium
Portugal
Height Male:
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
53 - 57 cm
20 - 23 inches
Height Female:
56 - 61 cm
22 - 25 inches
53 - 57 cm
20 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
29 - 34 kg
63 - 75 pounds
70 - 80 kg
154 - 177 pounds
Weight Female:
27 - 32 kg
59 - 71 pounds
67 - 80 kg
147 - 177 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 10
3 - 8
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Belgian Tervueren Chien de Berger Belge
Rabo Torto
Colors Available:
Fawn, red, grey with black overlay
Fawn, yellow, brindle, red or black
Coat:
Dense with long, straight outercoat
Short and dense
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

belgian shepherd dog tervurenReferred to as the ‘Terv’, this dog from Belguim was created in the late 19th century. He is one of 4 varieties of Belgian Shepherd and he has a long, fawn colored coat. It was in 1892 that the first show for Belgian Shepherds took place and it was the Tervuren variety that won.

Breeders of these dogs gave each of the four varieties their own name, and the name Tervuren comes from a Belguim village. This is where M.F. Corbeel bred dogs, believed to be the foundation of the Tervuren breed.

In World War I, many of these dogs were used by the military for war related jobs. Some of these dogs were imported to America for breeding and in 1959 it was considered a separate breed from other Belgian Sheepdogs.

The Cao de Fila da Terceira Mastiff hails from Portugal and is also known as the Rabo Torto.The dog actually comes from the isle of Terceira in the Azores. The dog descends from mastiffs, bulldogs and local dogs.

It was in the 1960s that there was an attempt to revive the dwindling numbers of the breed. The dog was declared extinct in the 1970s but there were some people in the Azores who wanted to see the breed restored, and it remains a mystery as to if the dog is in fact still available. The breed isn’t recognized by kennel clubs.

Description

Attractively Elegant

belgian shepherd dog tervuren puppy - descriptionThe Tervuren is a medium to large sized, well muscled dog achieving heights of up to 66cm. He has an attractively elegant, regal look to him. The dog has a double coat which is weather resistant. The overall length of the coat which is fawn to mahogany is medium to long and the outer coat is straight with black tips. The males have almost like a mane of hair around the neck that you won’t necessarily find with the females. The tail is long and feathery

The Tervuren is Full of Beans

The Belgian Tervuren is alert and intelligent. His has a long-shaped face with a black mask and upright ears that are sharp and receptive to every sound. He is a herding dog and is full of energy – used to having a job that keeps him busy.

If you don’t want your Tervurens to become destruction, you will need to keep him busy and not just keep him cooped up in the back yard. This particular dog breed is a devoted, loyal pet and forms a strong bond with his human family. However, he will need to be trained and socialized if you want him to behave well around children and pets in the home.

The Cao de Fila da Terceira is a medium sized molosser, recognized by his weird tail – short and twirled. In fact, the dog’s other name, Rabo Torto, actually stands for ‘twisted tail’, which is a trademark of this dog and which is thought to come from the mix of bulldog in him.

The dog’s coat is short and smooth and the color is usually fawn or yellow while other colors such as brindle, red or black are also available but less acceptable. You may also find small white markings on the chest and feet.

Standing at about 55cm, the dog is muscular and powerful with a broad head, medium sized floppy ears, wide chest and strong muzzle.

The Cao de Fila da Terceira is a good guard dog and while he doesn’t like strangers, he is a dog who is loving and devoted with his human family. See that he gets socialized and trained and he is capable of establishing a deep relationship with all members of the family, children and other pets included. He relies on his owners to provide him with warmth and communication.

Characteristics

belgian shepherd dog tervuren dog - characteristicsWith his beautiful face and lustrous coat, this is a pet that you’re always going to be proud of. Not only that, he is active too, a great watchdog and a fantastic family companion.

To keep your Tervuren spritely and contented, ensure he has a high quality diet designed for active herding dogs. He is intelligent too and training and socialization will turn him into an exceptional pet for you. Provide him with lots of human companionship, give him nutritious food and see that any ailments he has are attended to by the vet and you’ll have your attractive pet around with you for up to 12, 13, 14 or 15 years.

If only dog owners would realize that when it comes to a dog’s characteristics, that while there are some traits inherent in a dog, essentially it’s a case of you reap what you sow with a dog. Treat your dog badly, ignore him and abuse him and you get an aggressive, volatile dog who is a threat to the very humans who created the monster in him.

The Cão de Fila da Terceira will certainly need excellent training and socialization, and when he receives plenty of loving attention from his human family he becomes an amazing, relaxed pet. He becomes patient and sweet-tempered so that you can ultimately call him guardian and friend.

Health Problems

belgian shepherd dog tervuren puppies - health problemsYour Tervuren is a robust, healthy dog breed and with the right food, love and attention, you’re not going to have major health concerns with him. Skin allergies, eye problems and hip dysplasia might be something you want to be aware of.

Skin Allergies

A dry, itchy skin with incessant scratching from your pet might require a visit to the vet. If left untreated, an itchy skin and a scratching dog can lead to secondary skin infections and even hair loss. Check for allergies or fleas, and remember that apart from medical management of fleas and ticks, dogs with a dull coat will require a supplement with omega 3 fatty acids.

Hip Dysplasia

A common skeletal disorder with malformation of the hip brought on by environmental- and genetic factors. Recognizing the signs of hip dysplasia is important for your dog to help him with pain.

The Cão de Fila da Terceira is a healthy dog breed, but even so, you need to be looking out for some ailments which can threaten the comfort and wellbeing of any dog.

Constipation:

This can often be brought about by the wrong diet. When you see your pet battling to clear out the bowels, it can often be rectified by altering your dog’s diet. Speak to your vet if it continues. Your vet may suggest adding some form of nutritious oil to your pet’s diet.

Heart Problems:

Dogs can also suffer from heart disease, especially when there is an obstruction to the flow of blood to the brain which can cause your pet to collapse. Veterinary attention must be sought without delay.

Kidney Failure:

Frequent passing of water can be indicative of a kidney problem. Veterinary advice will be needed.

Caring The Pet

Regular Brushing is Required

belgian shepherd dog tervuren dogs - caringYour Terv is a double-coated dog and he will shed his hair throughout the year. Brushing him at least twice in the week will be necessary to get rid of the hair he sheds. Apart from brushing him and keeping his beautiful coat shiny and healthy, other grooming needs will include clipping his nails and dental hygiene. Brushing his teeth 2 or 3 times a week with specialized dog toothpaste and toothbrush will help with keeping plaque and bacteria at bay.

Feeding

Speak to your vet about feeding your Tervuren puppy as he will need at least 4 bowls of food while he is so tiny. By the time he is a year old, he will be able to have 1 or 2 meals a day. Always make sure you feel him high quality food which can be home-made food or commercially manufactured food.

To ensure he doesn’t suffer with any skin allergies, he will need to have some raw meat mixed into his food from time to time. Always provide fresh water for him and make sure to wash the bowls out often.

Companionship is important for the Cao de Fila da Terceira, and if you don’t have another dog in the home, as a pack animal, your dog will rely on you for being an active part of his life. A dog that is well treated becomes thoroughly loyal to his owner.

Diet:

A balanced diet is important for health and for a shiny coat. If you’re unsure of how to feed your Terceira, speak to your veterinarian first. Your vet will know that protein for instance, is essential for your dog. The vet will also speak to you about how to feed a puppy, an adult dog, a pregnant female dog and also feeding your senior dog. Your vet will also explain the hazards of overfeeding and how raw meat also needs to be included in your pet’s diet.

Fresh, cool water is your pet’s life-blood and should be available to your dog night and day. Every dog can benefit too from taking a daily supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acid.

Grooming:

The grooming of your pet will depend on the breed. The Cão de Fila da Terceira has a short coat so he will be easy to maintain. Brush him twice a week to remove loose hairs.

Areas which also need checking daily are the eyes to see that there is no discharge. It is also important to inspect the ears as there should be no build-up of wax inside the ear. Toenails also need attention and should be clipped if they grow long from the pet not walking on hard surfaces.

Comparison with other breeds

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  26. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  28. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison