Skip to content The Dutch Shepherd Dog was bred in the 19th century in the Netherlands and was intended for versatile duties. Dogs of this breed successfully pulled carts, served as shepherds, police dogs, and were good guards. The Dutch Shepherd is a very rare breed not only outside Holland; even in their homeland the number of these dogs is significantly limited. They are tremendously prized for their quick reflexes and unique abilities.
Characteristic
A distinctive feature of the Dutch Shepherd is its variegated color. This is a strong, muscular, extremely well-proportioned breed of dog with a balanced temperament. It is easy to appreciate the outstanding intelligence of the Dutch Shepherd Dog even by its appearance.
Character
The Dutch Shepherd is affectionate, lively, obedient, reliable and loyal dog. As a rule, she chooses one master from the family, although she loves all its members. This Shepherd is ready to defend its family, home and territory at any time; this breed makes excellent watchmen. They are attentive, active, and always ready to go. Get along well with children, provided that they treat the dog correctly, do not tease it or cause pain. The Dutch Shepherd Dog quickly finds a common language with other dogs and other domestic animals. It should not be left alone for long periods of time, otherwise the dog may become depressed, and then it will begin to spoil the surrounding objects.
Wool and care
There are three varieties of this dog: wire-haired, long-haired and short-haired. In the wire-haired subspecies, the coat is coarse, of medium length, in the long-haired one, it is straight, smooth and long. The Short-haired Dutch Shepherd Dog is dressed in a short, soft and thick coat. In all three subspecies of this breed, wool perfectly protects them from any bad weather. Short-haired and long-haired Dutch Shepherds require regular brushing in order to remove loose and dead hairs. Wirehaired subspecies needs professional trimming twice a year. You can bathe your dog only if absolutely necessary. Due to the extreme rarity of this breed, no data on characteristic diseases for it have yet been obtained.
Training
The Dutch Shepherd needs an active dominant owner. Dogs of this breed show great learning abilities; therefore, variety is extremely important in the structure of activities in order to keep and warm up their interest. This dog displays special talents in disciplines such as obedience, policing, military service and security. Training should be conducted with firmness, fairness and consistency.
Activity
The Dutch Shepherd is not a suitable breed for those accustomed to a sedentary lifestyle. These dogs strive to be constantly busy with something and to do the work assigned to them. You should not keep them in a city apartment; a house in a rural area with a well-fenced spacious yard or a farm will suit them best. The Dutch Shepherd desperately needs constant physical training and mental stimulation. Invite her to compete in agility, grazing, obedience or field work and she will show everything she is capable of. These dogs make excellent companions for long walks and jogging, of course on a secure leash.
