Dog Breeds - Dutch Shepherd

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection displayed by a breed towards family members or individuals they know well can vary from breed to breed. While some breeds tend to exhibit a certain degree of aloofness towards everyone except their owner others are known to treat everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, can vary from breed to breed. It's important to note that dogs should always be supervised when interacting with young children or children who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
When assessing the general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs, it is essential to recognize that individual temperament and socialization play significant roles. While certain breeds may have a reputation for being more inclined to get along with other dogs, it is crucial to understand that each dog is unique and there can be variations in behavior within breeds.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to leave behind can vary significantly. Some breeds are known for minimal shedding and therefore may leave less fur around the house. These breeds generally require less frequent brushing and are less likely to trigger allergies or necessitate extensive vacuuming and lint-rolling.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming requirements, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance, can vary greatly depending on the breed. When considering the grooming effort needed, it's essential to take into account the time, patience and budget you have available for this type of care. Additionally, regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency to drool can vary among different breeds. For those who prioritize cleanliness and may not be comfortable with dogs that leave ropes of slobber on their arm or create big wet spots on their clothes, it's important to consider breeds that are less prone to drooling.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming a breed tends to be towards strangers can vary from breed to breed. While some breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers, regardless of the location, other breeds are generally more open and eager to meet new people.Certain breeds are known for their friendly and social nature, often happy to greet and interact with strangers. They may show a higher degree of approachability and may not display apprehension or wariness towards unfamiliar individuals.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed tends to have for play can vary from breed to breed. While some breeds maintain their playfulness and enjoyment of activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, others may have a more relaxed and laid-back approach preferring to spend their time relaxing on the couch with their owners.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Some breeds have a strong instinct to alert their owners when strangers are around. These breeds tend to be more vigilant and responsive to potential threats, whether it's the arrival of the mailman or the sight of a squirrel outside the window. They are often quick to sound the alarm and make their presence known. It's important to note that breed tendencies vary and individual dogs within a breed can also exhibit variations in their alertness levels. While some dogs may react more strongly to strangers others may be more relaxed and less prone to alarm barking.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle changes can vary from breed to breed. Some breeds are known for their easygoing nature and flexibility making them more capable of handling changes in various aspects of daily life. Others may be more sensitive to change and may require more time and support to adjust.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary between breeds. While some breeds are known for their intelligence, trainability and desire to please their owners, others may be more independent-minded and less motivated by pleasing their human companions.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs can indeed vary significantly. Some breeds are considered high energy and require ample exercise and mental stimulation to thrive and remain content. These breeds often enjoy activities that involve running, jumping, playing and engaging in various physical exercises. They have a higher drive for adventure and may require extended periods of exercise each day to meet their energy requirements.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization, including barks or howls, can vary from breed to breed. While some breeds are known for being more vocal barking at every passer-by or even at birds outside a window others tend to be quieter and may only bark in specific situations or when necessary. It's worth noting that even barkless breeds can still be vocal in other ways using different sounds to express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed needs to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, as you mentioned, often have specific jobs that require decision-making, problem-solving concentration, and other mental skills. These breeds typically have a high need for mental stimulation to keep their minds active and engaged.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection displayed by a breed towards family members or individuals they know well can vary from breed to breed. While some breeds tend to exhibit a certain degree of aloofness towards everyone except their owner others are known to treat everyone they know as their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, can vary from breed to breed. It's important to note that dogs should always be supervised when interacting with young children or children who have limited exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

When assessing the general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs, it is essential to recognize that individual temperament and socialization play significant roles. While certain breeds may have a reputation for being more inclined to get along with other dogs, it is crucial to understand that each dog is unique and there can be variations in behavior within breeds.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to leave behind can vary significantly. Some breeds are known for minimal shedding and therefore may leave less fur around the house. These breeds generally require less frequent brushing and are less likely to trigger allergies or necessitate extensive vacuuming and lint-rolling.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming requirements, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance, can vary greatly depending on the breed. When considering the grooming effort needed, it's essential to take into account the time, patience and budget you have available for this type of care. Additionally, regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency to drool can vary among different breeds. For those who prioritize cleanliness and may not be comfortable with dogs that leave ropes of slobber on their arm or create big wet spots on their clothes, it's important to consider breeds that are less prone to drooling.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming a breed tends to be towards strangers can vary from breed to breed. While some breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers, regardless of the location, other breeds are generally more open and eager to meet new people.Certain breeds are known for their friendly and social nature, often happy to greet and interact with strangers. They may show a higher degree of approachability and may not display apprehension or wariness towards unfamiliar individuals.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed tends to have for play can vary from breed to breed. While some breeds maintain their playfulness and enjoyment of activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, others may have a more relaxed and laid-back approach preferring to spend their time relaxing on the couch with their owners.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Some breeds have a strong instinct to alert their owners when strangers are around. These breeds tend to be more vigilant and responsive to potential threats, whether it's the arrival of the mailman or the sight of a squirrel outside the window. They are often quick to sound the alarm and make their presence known. It's important to note that breed tendencies vary and individual dogs within a breed can also exhibit variations in their alertness levels. While some dogs may react more strongly to strangers others may be more relaxed and less prone to alarm barking.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle changes can vary from breed to breed. Some breeds are known for their easygoing nature and flexibility making them more capable of handling changes in various aspects of daily life. Others may be more sensitive to change and may require more time and support to adjust.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary between breeds. While some breeds are known for their intelligence, trainability and desire to please their owners, others may be more independent-minded and less motivated by pleasing their human companions.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs can indeed vary significantly. Some breeds are considered high energy and require ample exercise and mental stimulation to thrive and remain content. These breeds often enjoy activities that involve running, jumping, playing and engaging in various physical exercises. They have a higher drive for adventure and may require extended periods of exercise each day to meet their energy requirements.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

When Necessary

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation a breed needs to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, as you mentioned, often have specific jobs that require decision-making, problem-solving concentration, and other mental skills. These breeds typically have a high need for mental stimulation to keep their minds active and engaged.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Gold Brindle	485
Silver Brindle	303
Yellow	232

PATTERNS

About The Breed

The Dutch Shepherd exhibits traits of being lively, athletic, alert, and intelligent, which are common characteristics of herding breeds. Their independent nature and obstinacy suggest a dog with a strong sense of individuality and potentially some challenges in training.

The breed's herding instinct and ability to work all day are reflections of their original purpose as farm and livestock dogs. Their physique and structure likely contribute to their endurance and agility allowing them to fulfill their working duties effectively.

Being a naturally occurring shepherd's dog discovered in rural areas, the Dutch Shepherd possesses a connection to its wild ancestors as suggested by the resemblance to a wolf mentioned in historical writings. This connection may contribute to certain characteristics and instincts exhibited by the breed.

While the Dutch Shepherd may not be widely known, it is recognized as a loyal companion and competent working dog, with various applications in obedience, dog sports, herding, tracking, search and rescue and police work. These activities help provide the mental and physical stimulation necessary to keep the breed satisfied and fulfilled.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A DUTCH SHEPHERD

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Dutch Shepherd: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The Dutch Shepherd, being relatively less renowned and bred in accordance with Dutch regulations, typically exhibits good overall health. However, similar to every breed there can be sporadic occurrences of other ailments. Researchers are presently conducting examinations to ascertain the requirement for supplementary mandatory tests. Breeders must prioritize screening for hip dysplasia in all coat variants. Additionally, long-haired Dutch Shepherds should be screened for thyroid problems, whereas rough-haired individuals should be tested for Gonio dysplasia. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Thyroid Evaluation Goniodysplasia (for the rough-haired) Hip and Elbow Certification

Grooming

	The Dutch Shepherd possesses two coat variations: the gold brindle and the silver brindle. Additionally, there are three distinct coat types available: short-hair, long-hair, and rough-hair. For the short-hair variety, occasional brushing is sufficient. However, during the seasonal shedding periods in spring and Fall it is advisable to switch to daily brushing. On the other hand, long-haired Dutch Shepherds require grooming sessions once a week, or more frequently if their activity level and environment demand it. As for the rough-hair types, they need monthly combing, along with a semi-annual hand-stripping of the coat. Bathing should be done as necessary. To prevent overgrowth splitting, and cracking, it is essential to trim their nails when needed utilizing a nail clipper or grinder. Regular checks should be performed on their ears to prevent wax and debris buildup, which could lead to infections. Finally, proper dental hygiene is recommended, including regular brushing of the teeth.

Exercise

	The Dutch Shepherd, originally developed as a versatile farm dog, has also distinguished itself in roles as a police and military canine. Consequently, it has been selectively bred to endure demanding tasks and plenty of them. Motivated to perform its designated duties this dog possesses the ability to distinguish between work, play and relaxation adjusting its energy levels accordingly. Instead of being left alone as a mere pet this breed aspires to become your life companion. When provided with the appropriate mental and physical stimulation the Dutch Shepherd proves to be an excellent choice for an active family already acquainted with canine companions.

Training

	A highly intelligent breed that thrives on challenges, the Dutch Shepherd is known for its readiness to obey. Due to their sharp intellect, this breed responds better to shorter training sessions, incorporating minimal repetitions, while becoming increasingly motivated by mentally stimulating tasks. Without proper training, this breed can exhibit high independence and may begin making autonomous decisions, underscoring the importance of obedience training. Endowed with a genuine shepherd temperament this versatile breed excels in various disciplines such as herding, scent detection, scent tracking, IPO, obedience and agility among others.

Nutrition

	The Dutch Shepherd, known for its innate athleticism, benefits from a diet consisting of high-quality food, tailored to their specific activity level. Numerous dog food companies offer formulas designed for different breed sizes, including small, medium, large, and extra-large. As a medium-large breed, the Dutch Shepherd typically has a lifespan ranging from 11 to 14 years. While the choice of what to feed your dog is ultimately a personal decision, consulting with your veterinarian and/or breeder is crucial in determining the appropriate meal frequency during the puppy stage and establishing an adult diet that promotes longevity. It is essential to ensure your Dutch Shepherd has constant access to clean and fresh water.

Historiography

The Dutch Shepherd a land-breed originating in The Netherlands, was developed centuries ago to fulfill multiple roles in the challenging and austere conditions of that era. Shepherds and farmers required a versatile dog capable of adapting to their harsh environment. Besides herding livestock, Dutch Shepherds safeguarded the kitchen garden by keeping hens at bay gathered and guided cows for milking, and even pulled carts loaded with milk and produce to market. In addition, they acted as vigilant caretakers watching over children and alerting farmers to any unwelcome visitors on the farmyard.

The breed's first standardized description dates back to June 12, 1898. Initially, any coat color was permissible, but in 1914, it was decided that the Dutch Shepherd should exclusively exhibit a brindle coat, differentiating it from other similar breeds of that time such as the German shepherd and Belgian Shepherd. With the transformation of agriculture and the reclamation of land for alternate purposes around 1900, sheep flocks in The Netherlands declined consequently reducing the need for shepherd dogs. However, the versatile skills of the Dutch Shepherd proved invaluable in new vocations including police work search and rescue operations and serving as guide dogs for the blind. Despite these diverse roles the breed has managed to retain its original herding capabilities and is still employed for this purpose today.