Country of Origin: Belgium Bred for: Watchdog, ratter, companion Group: Non-Sporting, Companion Dog Color: Black outercoat; dark grey undercoat Life span: 15 to 16 years Grooming Needs: Brush every few days, bathe every three to four weeks Coat: Doublecoated, with an abundant, straight, slightly harsh outer-coat, and a dense, soft, short undercoat. The distinctive coat forms a longer neck ruff and shoulder cape. Size: Males: 11-13 inches 18 pounds Females: 10-12 inches, 18 pounds Temperment: Inquisitive, protective, loyal, confident, independent, alert, vocal Training: Highly trainable Energy: High Children: Good with children Compatibility with other dogs: Good Health Concerns: Epilepsy, and MPS-IIIB, a progressive, ultimately fatal cellular disorder