Dutch Shepherd history and information

Dutch Shepherds have been distinguished from the other varieties of working line shepherds in a relatively short period of time, a little over a hundred years. Originally used by human shepherds to herd, guard and defend flocks of sheep on the flat fields of Holland, they were prized for their workability and guard drive.

The Dutch Shepherd dog is fairly rare in North America, and is also limited in their local country, Holland. This breed is greatly admired for their fast reflexes and capabilities.

The late nineteenth century brought a reduction in the amount of sheep herds in Holland and therefore a loss of work for shepherds and their Dutch Shepherd dogs alike. Interest started to develop in owning and showing these highly intelligent dogs and the Nederlandse Herdershonden Club (Dutch Shepherd Dog Club) was formed as a result. Early members included founders of the K.N.P.V.

Attention started to be paid toward creating standards for the breed, including color, coat length, bone density and size. Formal breeding practices evolved to produce dogs that met the criteria. "Undesirable" traits, especially pertaining to coloration, were bred out as much as possible. As a result, Dutch Shepherds became more common in appearance.

Traits that have always been a part of the Dutch Shepherds' genetic makeup include a high degree of intelligence, adaptability, courage and natural born guard drive. With the proper training foundation, they make excellent protection dogs. In fact, one of my clients insists that her Dutch Shepherds are better protectors than her human bodyguards.  Also great with children, they love to socialize and especially exercise with their handler. 

Versatile, beautiful and most of all protective, Dutch Shepherds have proven themselves to be among the best of the working line shepherds.

Temperament

The Dutch Shepherd is one of the most competent shepherd dogs there is, and does very well at jobs such as catch, obedience competitions, guard work, herding and field trailing. This breed is very fond of its territory and a very keen worker. These dogs are warm, content, clear-headed and very faithful to their families. Being friendly, affectionate, good-humoured and highly energetic these dogs are in general very happy and smart. The Dutch Shepherd can be good friends with children if they give them some time to be alone. These dogs will greet friend and family excitedly, but will b hostile toward unwanted visitors. This breed will get along with other animals, but also enjoys the company of their own kind. Owners will find these dogs to be clever, easy to train in obedience train and very keen on learning. The Dutch Shepherd makes excellent watch and guard dogs and is always alert.

Care

Both the long and short-haired Dutch Shepherd dogs are very high maintenance when it comes to grooming. They should be brushed often to remove any dead and loose hairs. The short-haired coats should be trimmed by professionals two times a year. It recommended that the surplus hair on the ears should be removed. The wire-haired variety should not be brushed ever, but they can be combed once in a while. This breed has an all-weather coat that should be bathed only when it is really necessary otherwise the natural oils on the skin will be removed.

Training

The Dutch Shepherd will need a dominant trainer but at the same time they also learn very quickly. It is important that their training sessions are varied; otherwise they will loose interest quickly. They do extremely well in obedience, police work, military work and guarding. The training environment for the Dutch Shepherd should be firm, fair and consistent.

Health problems

There are no recorded health issues for the Dutch Shepherd, and they will typically live for 12 to 14 years.