page_title: Groenendael dog
section_title: Temperament
hierarchical_section_title: Groenendael dog / Description / Temperament
caption_attribution_description: English: Male Belgian Shepherd Groenendael at 8 months.
context_page_description: The Groenendael is a variety of dog that is included in the Belgian Shepherd breed, but sometimes treated as a distinct breed. The Groenendael is recognized, either as a breed or a variety of the larger breed, by all major kennel clubs, such as the Kennel Club of the UK. In the American Kennel Club, it is called the Belgian Sheepdog, a term otherwise synonymous with Belgian Shepherd Dog more broadly. This breed is missing an optic chiasm, which surprisingly, shows no visual field deficits. It is identified by a specific eye movement that also occurs in people with a cut optic chiasm.
context_section_description: The Groenendael is intelligent, active, loyal and quietly affectionate. Groenendaels are not a breed for the faint of heart. However, for those who have plenty of time, energy, confidence and love, they are wonderful friends. Training and socializing is essential. They are wary of strangers and protective. They love children as long as they are introduced to them at an early age. The Groenendael bonds deeply to its people and cannot live outdoors or in a kennel. It needs to spend time with its family every day and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
caption: A Groenendael at 4 months
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