Grooming the Belgian Sheepdog

COAT

The Belgian Sheepdog has a true double coat developed for endurance, protection, and adaptability. The outer coat consists of long, straight, well-fitting guard hairs that are abundant but never silky or wiry. Correct texture is a medium harshness—softening the coat through over-conditioning or incorrect grooming products compromises both appearance and function.

The undercoat is extremely dense and adjusts seasonally with climate and daylight. This breed is particularly adaptable to extremes of temperature, relying on proper coat care rather than clipping for comfort. Hair is shorter on the head, outside of the ears, and on the lower legs. Tufts of hair protect the ear openings and should be preserved rather than stripped away.

CHARACTER

The Belgian Sheepdog reflects intelligence, courage, alertness, and deep devotion to its handler. Originally bred as a guardian of flocks, the breed retains strong protective instincts toward people and property.

This is a watchful, attentive dog—often in motion when not under command. With strangers, the Belgian Sheepdog should be observant and vigilant without being fearful or reactive. Shyness, fearfulness, or unwarranted aggression are incorrect for the breed.

With those it knows well, the Belgian Sheepdog is affectionate, loyal, and highly bonded. Grooming sessions should be calm and consistent, as this breed is sensitive and highly aware of handling and environment.

RECOMMENDED CINDRA GROOMING PRODUCTS

COMMON BELGIAN SHEEPDOG COAT PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS

Problem	Cause	Solution
Detangling / Dematting	Dense undercoat and friction	Apply Moisture Plus conditioner full strength directly to the mat. Allow to sit for 15 minutes, then gently separate with fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
Dry, damaged coat	Environmental exposure or improper grooming	Wet the dog with warm water, apply Moisture Plus liberally, wrap in a warm towel for 15–20 minutes, then shampoo with Texturizing Shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
Increased undercoat	Seasonal coat cycle	Regular line brushing combined with controlled blowouts once shedding has begun. Lightly mist with Maxi Care leave-in coat conditioner to reduce static and brushing friction.
Shedding around the house	Normal coat cycle	Spray lightly with Maxi Care coat spray and brush daily down to the skin. Incorporate regular line brushing and controlled blowouts. Shedding cannot be eliminated completely—it is a normal, necessary process.
Matting behind ears & pants	Friction and undercoat buildup	Light, frequent brushing in high-friction areas. A light mist of Maxi Care helps prevent breakage and coat snapping.
Dull black coat	Buildup or harsh detergents	Gentle cleansing with a residue-free texturizing shampoo and meticulous rinse technique to restore natural shine without softening coat texture.
Extra volume needed	Humidity or coat timing	Use Super Coat diluted 50:50 with water while line brushing. In very humid conditions, reduce product and rely on brushing technique.

HOW TO GROOM THE BELGIAN SHEEPDOG

Belgian Sheepdog grooming is about preservation, not transformation. Parent clubs and experienced breeders emphasize maintaining a natural, functional coat with correct texture, density, and outline.

Line Brushing: The Foundation of Coat Care

Line brushing is essential for the Belgian Sheepdog and should be done correctly to protect coat integrity. Begin by misting the coat lightly with Maxi Care leave-in conditioner. This reduces static, minimizes coat breakage, and allows the brush to glide down to the skin without snapping guard hairs.

Working in small sections, brush from the skin outward, ensuring dead undercoat is released without stripping healthy coat. Focus on friction zones first—behind the ears, armpits, pants, and the base of the tail. Consistency matters more than force; aggressive brushing damages texture and increases matting over time.

Bathing

Bathe every four to six weeks or as needed based on activity level. Use Cindra Texturizing Shampoo to clean thoroughly while maintaining proper coat feel. Rinse until the coat feels completely residue-free.

Conditioning (With Restraint)

Conditioning should support coat health without softening texture. Use Reconstructor sparingly for environmental stress or coat repair. Over-conditioning will compromise weather resistance.

Drying & Blowouts

Controlled high-velocity drying helps release dead undercoat and keeps skin healthy. Always dry in the direction of coat growth to preserve lay and outline.

Trimming

Trimming should be minimal—feet, hocks, and pasterns only. The body coat should never be shaved, thinned, or sculpted, as this disrupts insulation and alters regrowth.