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Intro
Are you searching for a dog that excels in agility or one that can be a fun, energetic playmate for your children? Look no further than the Dutch Shepherd! These remarkable dogs are versatile and intelligent, making them an excellent choice for both families and active individuals. While they might not be as famous as some of their shepherd cousins, Dutch Shepherds are among the healthiest and easiest Shepherd breeds to train. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Dutch Shepherd, the ideal family pet for active homes, to help you decide if this dog is right for you.
History
The Dutch Shepherd’s origin dates back to the Netherlands, where these dogs were initially used as working animals on farms. They were tasked with herding sheep and other livestock, keeping chickens out of gardens, pulling carts, and serving as watchdogs. However, as modern farming techniques evolved, the need for such working dogs declined.
During World War II, the breed faced severe challenges. Many Dutch Shepherds died due to starvation, while the German military took others for their high trainability in military operations. Despite their relative rarity today, Dutch Shepherds continue to serve in police work, search and rescue operations, and even as guide dogs due to their exceptional training capabilities.
Personality
Dutch Shepherds are known for their intelligence and versatility. They excel in almost every area, including:
Agility
Watchdog duties
Search and rescue
Herding
Police work
Guide dog tasks
Though naturally protective of their family, Dutch Shepherds are also friendly and well-socialized, especially when introduced to new people early on. They can switch to guard dog mode if they sense a threat but are generally loving and loyal to their owners. If properly socialized, they get along well with other animals, including other dogs.
Appearance
The Dutch Shepherd closely resembles its cousins, the German Shepherd and Belgian Shepherd, often described as a brindle version of these breeds.
Physical features include:
Medium-sized, well-balanced body
Wedge-shaped head with a slightly elongated skull
Black nose and dark, almond-shaped eyes
Triangular, erect ears
Dutch Shepherds can grow up to 25 inches (63 cm) tall and weigh up to 71 pounds (32 kg). Their bodies are slightly longer than their height, contributing to their athletic build. Their coat may be short, long, or wire-haired, with the short-haired variety being the most common. The wire-haired version is extremely rare.
Trainability
Dutch Shepherds are highly trainable, making them a pleasure to work with. They are often considered the most competent of all shepherd breeds, excelling in areas like obedience, agility, guard duty, and herding. This high intelligence also makes them ideal for service dog work, police work, and search and rescue missions.
Since Dutch Shepherds are so smart, establishing yourself as the pack leader early on is essential. Though they may have a stubborn streak, patience and the right training approach will prevent training challenges.
Health issues
Unlike the more common German Shepherd, the Dutch Shepherd is known for being a healthier breed with fewer hereditary issues. However, like any breed, they may be prone to certain health conditions, such as:
Hip dysplasia
Goniodyplasia
Inflammatory myopathy
To maintain optimal health, ensure your Dutch Shepherd is fed a high-quality, well-balanced diet. If they’re particularly active, a higher-protein food designed for active dogs may be necessary. The average lifespan of a Dutch Shepherd is between 11 and 15 years.
Cost
The cost of adopting a Dutch Shepherd is significantly lower than purchasing one from a breeder, with adoption fees typically around $300. This fee helps cover the expenses of caring for the dog before adoption.
Buying a Dutch Shepherd from a breeder can be quite expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on their lineage. Additionally, you can expect to spend between $500 and $1,000 annually for veterinary bills, food, toys, leashes, and other essentials.
Time investment
Dutch Shepherds require both physical and mental stimulation to stay happy. They are high-energy dogs that love to run, and combining this exercise with a mental challenge will help tire them out. Activities like frisbee, fetch, or fly ball are perfect, and you should aim for at least 30-60 minutes of playtime daily
Regarding grooming, Dutch Shepherds shed, and the long-haired variety sheds more than the short-haired type. Regular grooming is necessary, particularly after outdoor activities. Nail checking and trimming should also be part of your routine.
Best homes for Dutch shepherds
Dutch Shepherds are friendly, affectionate, and great with children and other animals, provided they have been properly socialized from a young age.
While these dogs are generally good-natured, it’s essential to supervise interactions between children and dogs to prevent rough play. Children should also be taught how to interact with dogs to ensure safe, positive experiences.
if you’re a fan of the Dutch shepherd, you might also enjoy these similar breeds:
