Let's talk Drentsche Partridge Dogs
Dating back some 500 years, the Drentsche Partridge Dog (or Drentsche Patrijshond) is a true European of the canine world. Originating in the Netherlands, these continental pointers were bred from dogs that arrived from Spain by way of France. Proving to be incredibly versatile, they were equally successful as sporting animals, farm dogs and family pets. Affectionate, loyal and sensitive, the Drentsche Partridge Dog has certainly been a cherished companion for many. In short, these smart, sporty dogs seem able to take most things in their ample stride.Official name: Drentsche Partridge Dog
Other names: Drentsche Patrijshond, Dutch Partridge Dog, Drent
Origins: The Netherlands
| Drooling tendencies |
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Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level | |
Suited to apartment living? |  |
| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | Medium to high | Family pet? * |
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| Compatibility with other pets | |
Can stay alone?* | |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 12 months |
| Adult age: | 1 to 7 years |
| Mature age: | 7 to 10 years |
| Senior age: | From 10 years |
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about Drentsche Partridge Dogs
1. A canine tongue-twister
If you’ve been wondering how to pronounce the native name of the Drentsche Partridge Dog – the Drentsche Patrijshond – you’re not alone. Although it is a bit of a tongue-twister, it’s not so bad when broken down. In short, it’s pronounced “da’rinse-ah puh’trice-hoon”. However, as they’re often known as the ‘Drent’ for short, there’s always that option too.
2. A second home
One of the rarest pointing breeds in North America, the Drentsche Partridge Dog nonetheless has a loyal and devoted following there. In fact, there is even a dedicated club, the Drentsche Patrijshond Club of North America, formed in 2007. The club’s primary objective is to establish a sound breeding programme for the Drentsche Partridge Dog “based on adherence to the Dutch standard.”
History of the breed
Originating in what is now the Netherlands, the Drentsche Partridge Dog was bred from pointers that arrived from Spain by way of France some 500 years ago. They are also thought to be related to small Münsterländers and French spaniels. In any event, so adaptable were the resulting animals that they were soon being used for everything from sport and herding to carting.
Hailing from the east of the country – chiefly the region of Drenthe – these cherished hounds were bred only among themselves. This differed from other places where the Drentsche Partridge Dog was often mixed with foreign breeds. As such, the breed in its pure form has remained most prevalent in the Netherlands.
The Drentsche Partridge Dog was officially recognised there, by the Dutch Kennel Club, in 1943. Not long after, the country’s breed club was formed in 1948. Today, there is a growing band of loyal followers elsewhere, with breed clubs in Belgium, Denmark and Scandinavia, as well as the aforementioned one in North America. The Drentsche Partridge Dog has been recorded in the Foundation Stock Service of the American Kennel Club (AKC) since 2010.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Drentsche Partridge Dogs
1. Head
Broad head, wedge-shaped muzzle and long ears set high.
2. Coat
Dense coat, usually white with brown patches and/or spots.
3. Body
Medium-sized body, straight back and long, bushy tail.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Drentsche Partridge Dog
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Caring for your Drentsche Partridge Dog
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Although the body hair of the Drentsche Partridge Dog is fairly short and flat, they have longer fur on their neck and chest and fringing on their legs and tail. For this reason, they will need a good brush through at least once a week, as well as the occasional bath. As the Drentsche Partridge Dog is also known for shedding, they should have extra grooming during those periods. In addition, they’ll need regular checks of their ears, claw clipping as required and teeth brushing daily (the secret with that is to start them off early …).
In terms of exercise, the Drentsche Partridge Dog has a high energy level and will require at least one to three hours every day. The good news, though, is that this can be divided between long walks, games in the park or even canine sports such as agility or obedience. Although super-smart, and generally a pleasure to train, it’s worth noting that the Drentsche Partridge Dog can have a slight stubborn streak at times. Patience and positive reinforcement are the key. As well as puppy training, be sure to give your Drentsche Partridge Dog plenty of early socialisation with humans and other animals.
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All about Drentsche Partridge Dogs
Gentle and playful, the Drentsche Partridge Dog is known to be excellent with children, once trained. In fact, this is one of the things for which they are renowned. Just be sure if they’re with younger ones that the children know how to play gently and properly – and, of course, keep an eye on any very little ones. On a separate note, it’s best to keep your Drentsche Partridge Dog away from any small animals due to their natural prey drive.
Once they are fully grown, the Drentsche Partridge Dog is medium to large in size. Typically, the top height for a male is around 63.5cm (25in) and for the female it is 59.5cm (23.5in). In terms of weight, the male Drentsche Partridge Dog generally reaches between 30-35kg (66-77lb) and the female is usually in the category from 25-31kg (55-68.5lb).
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/