Quick Facts
- Weight: 65 – 67 pounds
- Height: 22 – 25 inches
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.
Traits
- Active
- Intelligent
- Alert
- Protective
- Easygoing
Ideal Human Companion
- Active, sporty types
- Farmers and ranchers
- Families
- Experienced dog handlers
What They Are Like to Live With
Not just an exceptional worker, the Dutch Shepherd is also a loyal, friendly and affectionate friend that craves companionship and family time above everything else. If left alone for too long, the Dutch Shepherd can get bored and lonely. It really flourishes when given a steady dose of good-natured play and affection.
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.
