What They Are Like to Live With

Highly protective of its family and territory, the Dutch Shepherd is a passionate but restrained watchdog. An alert and watchful companion to children, the Dutch Shepherd is also easy to train and eager to please, learning and responding to the most complex commands.

Things You Should Know

The Dutch Shepherd can live as long as 14 years with relatively few genetic health problems. Grooming is fairly easy for all coat types. Brush the short and longhaired varieties regularly, but use a comb for the wire-haired. The Dutch Shepherd likes to be busy. From an early age, keep it active and socially challenged.

Dutch Shepherd History

Developed in 19th century Holland as an all-purpose working dog, the Dutch Shepherd was commonly used as a herder, farm dog, security/police dog and guard dog. Still very popular in their home country, Dutch Shepherds are harder to find elsewhere.

The Look of a Dutch Shepherd

Dutch Shepherds have long, muscular and well-balanced frames covered in three different coat varieties: short, long or wire-haired. (The long and wire-haired varieties are rare). Dutch Shepherds come in solid blue and brindle shades of gray, gold, silver, red and blue. They have powerful, flat-topped heads with long muzzles, black noses and triangle-shaped ears that point straight up. Their dark brown eyes have an alert and intelligent expression. They have thick necks, level backs and low-hanging tails that curve up slightly. Overall, the Dutch Shepherd exudes beauty and balance.