Dog breed popular in World Wars nears extinction with only 1,000 left globally

The Belgian Laekenois, the rarest of the Belgian Shepherd breeds, is at risk of extinction, with only around 1,000 left across thw rold.

The Belgian Laekenois, a once-celebrated breed renowned for its sheep herding skills, is now facing the threat of extinction. A passionate dog lover, @TheDoomydogs on TikTok, has stepped up to raise awareness about the rare breed, using her platform to showcase the beauty and charm of the Belgian Laekenois (pronounced “Lak-in-wah”).

As the rarest of the four Belgian Shepherd varieties, the Laekenois has become the focus of a growing effort to preserve its lineage. This has been further emphasised by the American Kennel Club’s recognition of the breed in 2020, as well as the establishment of responsible breeding initiatives to safeguard its future, Express reports.

With only a few thousand Belgian Laekenois remaining worldwide, estimates suggest around 1,000, with just 200 in the United States, the breed is exceptionally rare.

Thanks to a series of engaging videos by ParadePets, which highlight the Laekenois in various settings, including play, work, and bonding moments, awareness of this endangered breed is on the rise. The initiative aims to shed light on the alarming decline in the Laekenois population, as reported by the Irish Star.

As one of the four Belgian Shepherd breeds, the Belgian Laekenois may look familiar to dog enthusiasts, but it stands apart from its Malinois, Tervuren, and Sheepdog relatives. The Laekenois is distinct for its rough, wiry, and curly coat, typically in shades of red or fawn, often speckled with black.

Named after the town of Laeken, which played a key role in its development, the Laekenois was originally bred for tasks like herding, hunting, and even serving as messenger dogs during both World Wars. This medium-to-large breed requires dedicated grooming because of its unique coat, along with at least two hours of daily exercise.

On TikTok, @TheDoomydogs has warned that these intelligent, active dogs need constant mental stimulation, otherwise, they will find their own way to pass the time, and it may not always be ideal. While the Laekenois is not a breed for every owner, those who have them appreciate their loyalty, protectiveness, intelligence, and affectionate nature.

However, their need for engagement and strong work ethic can make them a handful. Despite their protective instincts, they have a low prey drive but remain capable of biting if not properly managed. Without sufficient exercise, a Laekenois may start herding people or other animals. They are particularly vigilant at night, constantly assessing potential threats.

Standardised in the late 19th century, the Belgian Laekenois has steadily grown in popularity, evolving into a versatile breed that now serves as both a beloved family pet and a reliable service dog.

Legend has it that Belgian Queen Marie Henriette had a special fondness for the breed, often enjoying watching them work alongside shepherds in the fields, protecting flocks and herds.

In addition to their role as guardians of livestock, Laekenois were also entrusted with guarding linen left out to dry in fields, further demonstrating their strong protective instincts.