Grooming tips for the Belgian Laekenois

"Time"

Lonerock & StarBright’s I’ve Waited For You
FSXs, PT, JHD, RATI, NHAT, FDC, HSAs

Coat:

The coat should have a rough, coarse texture that creates a naturally untidy, tousled appearance. A silky or soft texture, or the absence of a double coat, should be heavily penalized. Hair length across the body should measure roughly 2½ inches. A beard is required on the muzzle, and the hair on the head must not be overly long, ensuring the eyes and the natural lines of the head and skull remain visible, avoiding a square or heavy appearance. The tail must not form a plume.

Character:

The Belgian Laekenois is a square, well-balanced, and elegant dog, exuding strength, agility, and alertness with an impressive, proud carriage of the head and neck. Both males and females should reflect depth and solidity without bulkiness, with males appearing more grand and females distinctly feminine. Their temperament is a blend of intelligence, courage, and devotion to their master, with a natural protectiveness that enhances their role as guardians of flocks and property. Always attentive, watchful, and active unless commanded otherwise, the Laekenois is observant and vigilant with strangers while maintaining a confident demeanor. This breed is affectionate and friendly with those it knows, deeply loyal and eager for their attention, yet not prone to fear, shyness, or unwarranted aggression. Extreme shyness is undesirable and should be penalized, while viciousness is a disqualification, as it contradicts the breed’s inherently noble and reliable nature.

RECOMMENDED CINDRA PRODUCTS:

Texturizing Shampoo

Texturizing Mist

Reconstructor

Problem	Solution
Soft Coat	Mist with full strength Texturizing Mist and brush
Dry, damaged Coat	Our version of a hot oil treatment: Wet dog with warm water, apply Moisture Plus. Wrap in hot towel for 15-20 minutes. Shampoo with Moisturizing Shampoo and rinse.
Showing on a hot, dry day	Use Maxicare as your only coat dressing
Showing without full undercoat	Texturizing Mist (diluted 50:50 with water) while line brushing will hold coat up long enough for judging.
Thin leg furnishings	Spray diluted Texturizing Mist into a damp coat and fluff dry with a blow dryer.
Extra Volume	Super Coat (diluted 50-50 (or more) with water) while line brushing. If very humid try Texturizing Mist instead.
Mustache/ Facial furnishings	Apply Sculpting Gel and comb into position

Key Coat Elements of the AKC Breed Standard for Laekenois

To distinguish the Laekenois from other breeds in the Conformation Breed Ring, it’s essential to focus on the key coat elements outlined in the AKC Breed Standard. Proper grooming ensures the Laekenois is presented as per the standard. Below are the essential coat features and related grooming practices:

Key Features of the Coat

Rough and Coarse Texture
The coat should feel rough and coarse, maintaining a natural, tousled appearance. Regular bathing is infrequent to preserve this texture. Use harsh coat products (never softening conditioners). Rinse thoroughly, as the rinse is the most critical part of the process. A diluted Listerine rinse can also maintain a crisp coat.
Disorderly, Tousled Look
The coat should not be overly shaped. Avoid scissoring, shearing, or clipping, as these practices conflict with the standard. Minimal trimming is acceptable, such as on the bottom of the feet for traction or around sensitive areas. For the beard, strip to maintain its natural parallel bottom line.
Length of 2½ Inches Across the Body
Proper coat length is achieved through timely hand-stripping, typically twice a year. Depending on the dog, timing may range from 6 weeks to 3 months before the desired coat length is achieved.
Beard on the Muzzle
The beard is a defining feature of the Laekenois and must be present. Ensure it is preserved during head-stripping. Leave enough length to maintain balance and proportion. Strip the bottom line of the beard parallel to the jaw for a polished look.
Head Proportions
The head should not appear excessive or overly hairy, which might obscure the eyes or skull lines. Groom the head by stripping a few weeks after body stripping, ensuring the head coat grows to the proper shorter length.
Tail Without a Plume
A plumed tail is not acceptable. The tail’s coat must be hand-stripped to maintain its proper appearance.

Preparing the Coat for Grooming

Evaluate the coat’s condition before starting the stripping process. If the coat is “blown” (ready to shed), hairs should release easily without causing discomfort. If pulling is difficult or painful, stop and reassess.

Planning for Grooming

Timeline: Begin stripping 8–10 weeks before a show or establish a biannual schedule.
Method: Hand-stripping is preferred. Avoid scissors or clippers on the body, face, or legs.
Duration: Start with short sessions (around an hour), gradually increasing as the dog becomes accustomed to the process.

Stripping Techniques

Work methodically, pulling hairs in the direction of growth for the dog’s comfort.
Use corn starch or finger cots to improve grip.
Choose a starting point: either the tail forward or the head backward.

Head and Face Grooming

Maintain a natural, tousled look, ensuring the eyes and skull lines remain visible.
Strip the cheeks, jawline, and ears to enhance the head’s triangular shape.
Avoid scissoring or clippering. Use a pumice stone or hands for precision.

Furnishings (Beard and Legs)

The beard should be stripped and brushed regularly to prevent matting and maintain cleanliness.
Legs typically require minimal attention. If needed, use a pumice stone or stripping tool rather than scissors.

Rolling the Coat

Rolling involves selectively pulling the longest hairs to encourage new coat growth. This technique can extend the coat’s life between full strips and is dependent on the individual dog’s coat type.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can present a Laekenois that meets the AKC Breed Standard, ensuring it stands out in the Conformation Breed Ring with its distinct and proper appearance.