Dutch Shepherd Dog Breed Overview
One of the most searched dog breeds on the internet, Dutch Shepherd belongs to the large sized dog. Also known as Hollandse Herder, this breed was discovered first in the Netherlands. The average lifespan of this dog breed is 12-15 years and is associated with the Herding Dogs Group.
| Dog Breed Name: | Dutch Shepherd |
|---|---|
| Other Names: | Hollandse Herder |
| Size: | large size dog |
| Average Height: | Male: 22-25 inches (56-63 cm), Female: 21-24 inches (53-61 cm) |
| Average Weight: | Male: 61-70 pounds (27-31 kg) Female: 52-61 pounds (23-27 kg) |
| Energy: | high energy levels |
| Origin: | Netherlands |
| Group: | Herding Dogs |
| Life Span: | 12 to 15 years |
| Dog Breed Overview: | The Dutch Shepherd, as you might imagine, started out as a shepherd's working dog. Dutch Shepherds were used for all kinds of tasks on farms in the Dutch countryside. Not only were they capable of herding sheep and other livestock, but they also kept chickens out of the gardens, pulled carts, and acted as watchdogs. Originally, there was very little to distinguish Dutch Shepherds from German Shepherds or Belgian Shepherds other than coat color, although the breeds have diverged a bit more in the past 100 years and have their own breed standards. The Dutch Shepherd has become more rare in modern times. The development of modern farming techniques made these dogs unnecessary for herding and other farm work, and during World War II, breeding in the Netherlands stopped. Many dogs died of starvation, and some were taken by the German military because they were highly trainable for work in the armed forces. After the war, breeders continued the effort of breeding Dutch Shepherds and mixed in dogs of unknown origin. Though the breed is still rare today, Dutch Shepherds are used for police work, search and rescue, and as guide dogs because they are so highly trainable. They also compete in dog sports and have retained their herding abilities from their days on the farms. |
| Colours: | Blue,Brindle,Golden,Grey,Silver,Yellow,Salt & Pepper |
| Temperament: | Affectionate,Alert,Loyal,Obedient,Reliable,Trainable |
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Dutch Shepherd Dog Breed Price
Dutch Shepherd from regular breeders cost you from $1000 to $1200 per puppy.
Dutch Shepherd Dog Breed Size
The Dutch Shepherd varies in size: males are normally about 22-25 inches (56-63 cm), in height and around 61-70 pounds (27-31 kg) in weight, while females are normally around 21-24 inches (53-61 cm) in height and 52-61 pounds (23-27 kg) in weight.
Dutch Shepherd Dog Breed Temperament
The Dutch Shepherd is a lively, athletic, alert and intelligent breed, and has retained its herding instinct for which it was originally developed. Having an independent nature, it can be slightly obstinate and have a mind of its own.
The average lifespan for a Dutch Shepherd is 12 to 15 years. That’s because these are medium-sized dogs with a good mix of genes in their blood.
Interesting Facts about Dutch Shepherd Dog
- The Dutch Shepherd comes in three coats–short hair, long hair, and wire hair. Short haired Dutch Shepherds are the most commonly used for police work, and wire haired Dutch Shepherds are quite rare in general.
- Originally, the main thing that separated Dutch Shepherds from German Shepherds or Belgian Shepherds was coat color. All three breeds have gained more distinguishing features and breed standards since then.
- Dutch Shepherds were almost pushed to the brink of extinction after World War II when breeding in the Netherlands was stopped and many dogs were taken for service in the German military.
- Unlike other shepherd dogs, Dutch Shepherds have relatively few health problems.
- The Dutch Shepherd is an excellent watchdog and very loyal to their families. They are not known to be overly vocal, but they will bark if a stranger enters their territory.
- The coat of the Dutch Shepherd is brindle with colors that range from sandy gold to red chestnut. Too much black or white in the fur is seen as a fault.
FAQ’s on Dutch Shepherd Dog
Are Dutch Shepherd Dangerous Dogs? Are Dutch Shepherd naturally aggressive?
Dutch Shepherds are not typically an aggressive breed, but they can nip and snarl at strangers if they’re not trained and socialized sufficiently – particularly from the time that they are a young age. As working dogs, some herding behaviors are somewhat instinctive to the breed.
Are Dutch Shepherds smart?
Yes, Dutch Shepherds are a highly intelligent dog breed.
Are Dutch Shepherds trainable?
They are highly trainable, have the ability to learn complicated tasks, and perform excellently as search and rescue dogs.
Can Dutch Shepherd be kept with other dogs?
A Dutch shepherd can have one of three coats: short, long, or rough-haired. Though not used for the task much anymore, the Dutch shepherd’s instinct is still as a herding dog, so they work and live well with other dogs and livestock.
Can a Dutch Shepherd attack its owner?
No, Dutch Shepherd are a highly loyal breed. If this ever occurs it is due to poorly raising and socializing the dog and would be a very rare instance.
Do Dutch Shepherds kill people?
No, Even when raised improperly, Dutch Shepherd will not kill a person. When they attack, it is due to them being raised and socialized improperly by the owner. The reason that they can hurt people more than most other dog breeds is the fact that they have strong jaws and have a bad reputation due to which victims are in shock.
Do Dutch Shepherds have locking jaws?
No, they do not have locking jaws.
Are Dutch Shepherds safe to keep with kids?
Yes, Dutch Shepherds are great family dogs! While they may look intimidating, they’re a friendly and playful breed who’s ideal for families with children.
What should I feed my Dutch Shepherd?
Dutch Shepherds are known to piling on the pounds, however, so their diet should consist of biologically appropriate proteins, healthy fats, ground bones and vegetables – which are packed with essential vitamins and minerals – for optimum health and performance.
At what age is a Dutch Shepherd fully grown?
Dutch Shepherds will typically be full grown at around two years of age, but the maturing process can continue for up to another year.
When do Dutch Shepherds lose their teeth?
6 months and older. Once your puppy is about six months old, they should have lost all of their baby teeth and grown their adult teeth. It may take a little longer than six months for some dogs to grow all of their adult teeth, but your pup should have about 42 teeth when they’ve all erupted.
How long does a Dutch Shepherd live?
Dutch Shepherd can live anywhere from 12 to 15 years.
