Active
Loving
Alert
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Inquisitive

Active
Confident
Hard
Working
Stubborn
Intelligent
Alert
Friendly
Protective
Watchful

Bluetick Rat Terriers are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Belgian Sheepdogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

United States

Belgium

Rat Terrier and Bluetick Coonhound

Shepherd Dog

Unknown

1800s

Brown

Brown

Black

Black

Blue
Black
White

Black
Fawn
Sable

A Bluetick Rat Terrier can have a litter of 6-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Belgian Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Bluetick Rat Terriers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

While the Belgian Sheepdog breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Usually Very Healthy

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Cancer

Ear Infections
Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Cataracts
Epilepsy

Ear Examination
Orthopedic
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)

Blood Test
Hip X-Rays
Thyroid Tests
MRI
Eye Examination

Playing fetch

Playing Ball, Walk, Run, Keep away, Hike, Swim, Frizbee, Canoeing, Chase, Long walks, Hiking, Eating Snacks

In general most Bluetick Rat Terriers usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Belgian Sheepdogs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

The Bluetick Rat Terrier is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

The Belgian Sheepdog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

For an average 38-60 pound (17 - 27 kg) Bluetick Rat Terrier feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 55-75 pound (25 - 34 kg) Belgian Sheepdog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Bluetick Rat Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Belgian Sheepdogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Bluetick Rat Terriers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Belgian Sheepdogs are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Bluetick Rat Terriers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Belgian Sheepdogs are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Bluetick Rat Terriers are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Belgian Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Bluetick Rat Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Belgian Sheepdogs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Bluetick Rat Terriers have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Belgian Sheepdogs are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.