Let's talk Dutch Shepherds
With their almost wolf-like good looks, the Dutch Shepherd is a real beauty of the canine world. Intelligent and obedient, they are also incredibly versatile animals. Hailing from the Netherlands, they were originally used as sheepdogs, but now assist with everything from police work and search-and-rescue to serving as guide dogs for the blind. Both gentle and affectionate, they make an excellent companion, too. The looks of a wolf, the stamina of a sheepdog and the heart of a lion (well, metaphorically at least) ... it must be hard having it all.Official name: Dutch Shepherd
Other names: Dutch Herder, Hollandse Herdershond
Origins: The Netherlands
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| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | High | Family pet? * |
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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.
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57 - 62 cm
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12 - 25 kg
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55 - 60 cm
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12 - 25 kg
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| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 15 months |
| Adult age: | 15 months to 5 years |
| Mature age: | 5 to 8 years |
| Senior age: | From 8 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 Dutch Shepherds
1. Hair of the dog
Within the Dutch Shepherd breed, there are actually three different varieties. Depending on the length of the coat, the breed can be distinguished as short-haired, long-haired or rough-haired (sometimes called wire-haired). For tips on grooming your Dutch Shepherd, keep reading.
2. Adopt if you can
Though the Dutch Shepherd is a relatively rare breed, even in their native homeland, there is nonetheless a small but growing number elsewhere, including in the U.S. If you’re interested in adopting one there, you may wish to have a look at the North American Dutch Shepherd Rescue, a non-profit that specialises in finding homes for the breed.
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History of the breed
Originating in the Netherlands in the late 1800’s, the Dutch Shepherd was traditionally known there as a sheepdog. However, their versatile skills meant they were soon helping out with many other aspects of farm life too. Formally recognised in 1898, the Dutch Shepherd breed could initially be any colour, but this was later limited to brindle to distinguish them from the German and Belgian Shepherds.
Unfortunately, as time went on, modern farming techniques meant the Dutch Shepherd was no longer in such demand. Coupled with the pressures of World War II, they looked in a precarious position for a while. However, while still a comparatively rare breed, numbers have since recovered somewhat.
Nowadays, the Dutch Shepherd is used as everything from police dogs and search-and-rescue animals to guide dogs for the blind. They can also do well in canine sports such as herding, agility and obedience. The Dutch Shepherd has been recorded by the American Kennel Club in its Foundation Stock Service since 2012.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Dutch Shepherds
1. Head
Pricked ears, intelligent expression and alert, bright eyes.
2. Body
Powerful, muscular body, deep chest and long, curved tail.
3. Coat
Brindle coat can be short-haired, long-haired or rough-haired (wire-haired).
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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 Dutch Shepherd
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Caring for your Dutch Shepherd
Grooming, training and exercise tips
The grooming process for your Dutch Shepherd will depend on which type of coat they have. While the short-coated dogs require only an occasional brushing, the rough-haired variety will need a gentle combing more often (plus sessions at the groomer) and the long-haired type should have a good brushing at least once a week. During shedding season, your Dutch Shepherd will also require extra attention. All three types should have their teeth brushed daily, claws clipped as required and ears checked regularly. A dog that loves to be on the move, the Dutch Shepherd will need a good amount of exercise each day. This can be divided between activities such as walking, running and swimming, games in the garden and canine sports. Hugely intelligent, Dutch Shepherds pick up commands quickly and easily, so training is generally a pleasure. Just watch out, though, for their independent streak as this is a dog that knows their own mind. The key is to keep them interested and engaged, so avoid overly repetitive activities. As with all breeds, puppy-training classes and early socialisation are strongly recommended.
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All about Dutch Shepherds
Though similar breeds, there are some important differences between the Dutch and German Shepherd dogs. Most notably, Dutch Shepherds are slightly smaller in size, have a more wedge-shaped head and have distinctive brindle coats. In terms of their temperament, however, both breeds share many of the same traits. Like German Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds tend to be intelligent, loyal and dependable.
A very versatile breed, along with all their other various skills, the Dutch Shepherd makes an excellent watchdog. So, while it’s true that they will bark to sound the alarm if a stranger enters their territory, they are not otherwise known to be overly vocal dogs.
Read more on this topic
How to adopt a dog
Things to consider before getting a dog
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/