Overview

Dutch Shepherd dogs were begun in the Netherlands during the 1800s intended for all-purpose uses. They make great police dogs, cart pullers, guard dogs and herders. These dogs are thought to be quite rare in North America and are typically limited in Holland, their native land. They're valued highly for their capabilities and fast reflexes.

Activity

Dutch Shepherds aren't good for sedentary owners. They thrive on activity, exercise and having a task to complete. Apartment living isn't the best for these dogs and they need a large yard with a secure fence or a rural setting. It's vital that they get physical and mental stimulation. Dutch Shepherds excel in herding, field trailing, agility, and obedience competition. They're excellent companions for jogging and walking as long as they have a secure leash on them.

Care

There are both long hair and short hair varieties with Dutch Shepherd dogs. These need to be brushed regularly to remove loose and dead hair. Dutch Shepherd dogs with wire hair coats require professional plucking twice yearly. Don't bathe unless it's necessary. As the Dutch Shepherd is a rare breed, there aren't any known health concerns.

Character

The brindled coat of the Dutch Shepherd dogs is their most distinctive feature. This is a very powerful, balanced, well-proportioned and muscular breed. They also have a very intelligent expression.

Coat

Dutch Shepherds come in 3 varieties: Long, short, and wire. The Wire Hair breed has a coarse, medium length coat. The Long Hair breed has straight, harsh, long, and flat coats. Short Hair Dutch Shepherds have a coat that's short in length, fine, and dense. All 3 of these types of coats are weather resistant.

Temperament

Dutch Shepherd dogs are lively, reliable, affectionate, faithful and obedient. Usually, they choose one family member to bond closely to, but they love their whole family. This breed is attached to their family, territory and home. This protectiveness makes them wonderful guard dogs. They're active, enthusiastic and alert workers. A home with well-behaved children works best for the Dutch Shepherds. They get along well with other dogs as well and household pets, but can get destructive if lonely or bored.

Training

Dutch Shepherds must have dominant handlers. They learn fast so you must vary training methods to keep them from getting bored and keep them occupied. They're excellent for police work, guarding, military work, and obedience. Training must be conducted with fairness, consistency and firmness.