Dutch Shepherd
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General Description
(Hollandse Herdershond) There are three separate varieties of the Dutch Shepherd. The first variety, the long-haired Dutch Shepherd, has a long, flat, straight, harsh coat. The second variety, the short-haired Dutch Shepherd, has a fine, dense coat. The third variety, the wire-haired Dutch Shepherd, has a medium-length coat that is wiry in texture. While the length and texture of hair will vary according to the Dutch Shepherd’s coat type, the coat colors for this breed are all the same. The coat colors for this breed include yellow, gray, silver, gold brindle, red, and blue. The body of the Dutch Shepherd is well-muscled and symmetrical. Their chest is deep and their stomach is slightly tucked up. They have small, thickly-padded feet with well-arched toes and black nails. Their muzzle is comparatively long, their small eyes are slightly slanted and dark in color, and their ears stand stiffly erect. They have a curved tail and strong, well-developed teeth. Character
The Dutch Shepherd is a highly capable shepherd dog that excels in areas of agility, obedience, guarding, herding, field training, and companionship. They are extraordinarily competent, and they approach their work with great enthusiasm. They have strong territorial instincts and will ward off unwanted visitors at lightning speed. They are very affectionate, cheerful, and playful, and they love to spend time with their family. They are a highly intelligent breed, and they are very easy to be around. They are calm, even-tempered, and loyal. This breed generally gets along quite well with other dogs and animals. They are easy to train and learn new commands quickly. They are active, alert to their surroundings, and they make fine watch dogs. They are low maintenance and can withstand harsh weather conditions and fatigue.The Dutch Shepherd is very protective of family and property. It should be well socialized when young to prevent behavior problems when older. A well socialized Dutch Shepherd will thrive in a family environment and with children. Dutch Shepherds are one of the smartest of dog breeds and learn new commands quite easily.
Size
22 – 25 inches
Weight
65 – 67 pounds
General Health
The Dutch Shepherd has no recorded health issues or concerns. This breed typically lives for 12 to 14 years.
History
The Dutch Shepherd is a cousin of the Belgian Shepherd. The two breeds are remarkably similar, but it is likely that the Dutch Shepherd possesses more German Shepherd blood in its ancestry. While the Belgian Shepherds have become popular in northern Europe and throughout the United States, the Dutch Shepherd has not attracted much of a following outside of the Netherlands. Only about 400 Dutch Shepherds are registered each year. The Dutch Shepherd is highly valued throughout Holland for its herding abilities and quick reflexes. The breed was initially utilized as an all-purpose farm guard, cart-puller, police and security dog, herder, and guard dog. The Dutch Shepherd developed in the early 1800’s in the southern part of the Netherlands, specifically Belgium and the province of Brabant.
Maintenance
All coat types of the Dutch Shepherd require regular grooming. The breed’s coat should be combed and brushed to remove any dead or loose hairs. The wire-haired variety should be professionally plucked twice per year, and it should never be brushed. Excess hair should be removed from the ears. The Dutch Shepherd should only be bathed when it is necessary. Excessive washing of this breed can lead to the removal of natural oils in the dog’s skin.Bathe when necessary. Groom the Dutch Shepherd coat with a wire or bristle brush to get any loose or dead hair. If you don't have time to bathe your Dutch Shepherd, you can get a wet washcloth and wipe down their coat to clean oils and dead hair. This breed is a medium shedder.
Ideal Environment
The Dutch Shepherd is content to live in a small household or apartment if it is given sufficient daily exercise. This breed needs plenty of physical and mental activity to keep healthy and balanced. They are happiest when they have a job to perform. They make great jogging companions, and they love to go for long walks. This breed should be allowed to run free on a regular basis. The Dutch Shepherd’s weather-resistant coat makes it a suitable pet for nearly any climate.The Dutch Shepherd needs at least two or three hours a day to play or run. If this breed doesn't get enough mental and physical exercise, it can lead to health problems like obesity, temperamental issues, aggressiveness and they may become destructive. A well exercised and well trained Dutch Shepherd makes for a wonderful companion, friend and family dog. They also serve as great protectors and will protect their family with their lives.
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