Welcome to the Gowyth Belge Kennel's Homepage. The kennel, home of Group and in Show winning Belgian Shepherd (Groenendael) and Whippet, is situated near Leeston, 50 minutes' drive south of Christchurch, New Zealand.
We strive for excellence of type and soundness without compromising health. Our breeding philosophy is to breed only when a new pup is needed and not for the sake of breeding. Consequently, litters are infrequent!
Like the other three varieties of Belgian Shepherd, the Groenendael is a very active breed which does not suit everyone. They are a 'people' dog- demanding a great deal of the owner's time and energy. The breed is happiest when with their family but they must have a job to do. A bored Belgian is likely to be a destructive one. The breed excels in obedience, agility, flyball, tracking, and in the show ring. They are a sensitive breed which should not be handled in a harsh manner. The Belgian is intelligent, full of life and energy and makes an extremely loyal companion.
The Whippet is a small to medium sized sighthound bred originally to hunt rabbits and was later developed into the keen racing dog that we know today. They make excellent pets- being clean, naturally obedient and very easy to live with. Like the Belgians, Whippets are sensitive by nature so careful, kind handling is usually rewarded with the utmost loyalty. Unlike the Belgian, they are not a particularly demanding breed and will take as much or as little exercise available. However, it is advisable to let the Whippet run free in a large safe area at least once a week.
