Dutch Shepherds are a medium-large breed and may have a lifespan ranging from 11 to 14 years.
Confirmed genetic diseases diagnosed in Dutch Shepherds include allergies (atopy), masticatory myositis, pannus, cryptorchidism and inflammatory bowel disease. Within the rough-haired variety care should be taken to screen for goniodysplasia before breeding.
Dutch Shepherds generally tend to be more affectionate with family—and more protective. They may cling to your side or love to cuddle in your lap! It's important to get all dogs used to being alone early in life, but especially clingier breeds, as this trait can lead to separation anxiety.
Dutch Shepherds are great with family, even children and other pets, and they are very affectionate and obedient. They will, however, need plenty of exercise, both mentally and physically, to keep from becoming bored and destructive.
During World War II breeding pretty much came to a halt, and many dogs perished as a result of the fighting. These wonderful dogs almost became extinct. Although enthusiasts reestablished breeding programs after the war, the Dutch shepherd is still considered a rare breed to this day.
Coat Type: The Dutch Shepherd comes in four coat varieties: the smooth-coat, the long-coat, the rough-coat, and the inter-varieties. All varieties of coats are dense, double-coats with a woolly undercoat and protective outer coat.
Although the Dutch Shepherd's origins are somewhat muddied, it is suggested that they descend from the same herding dogs that also created the Belgian Shepherd and German Shepherd. He was originally bred in the early 1800s in the southern part of the Netherlands.
Originally used for keeping watch over sheep and cattle, the Dutch shepherd is a dog that is highly intelligent, incredibly loyal, and remarkably self-reliant. Whether you need a farmhand or loving family companion, these smart, athletic, highly trainable dogs are eager to please.
These all-purpose working dogs love to be on the move. Dutch Shepherds make great running companions and enjoy brisk walks, hiking, swimming, and trips to the dog park. These highly intelligent dogs also excel in agility, obedience, rally, dock diving, and—of course—herding. Mental stimulation is important, too.
German Shepherds are typically larger than Dutch Shepherds, though female German Shepherds are closer to the Dutch Shepherd's size. Maxing out at 26 inches and 90 pounds, German Shepherds also tend to be stockier in appearance. They likely have a stronger bite force as well, though it hasn't yet been studied.
Canine companions that follow their humans everywhere are often referred to as “velcro dogs” because of their desire to be attached to your side. “Dogs are pack animals, and we are their pack,” says Sally Morgan, author and holistic physical therapist for pets and people.
The Dutch Shepherd is a very loyal and friendly dog that bonds closely to their family. They are extremely sociable and love to be around people, which can result in some separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long.
Living Conditions. The Dutch Shepherd will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Its all-weather coat enables it to do well in cold climates.
These dogs are naturally aloof. They are not typically social to people outside their person. Aloofness is common, but they should not show fear or viciousness toward anyone.
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.
You can bathe your Dutch shepherd as necessary, but preferably no more than once a month to keep their coat shiny.
They have long muzzles and black noses, giving them that signature shepherd look. A Dutch Shepherd's coat can be one of three types: short-hair (close fitting with a wooly undercoat), long-hair (medium in length and straight with a wooly undercoat) and rough-hair (dense, harsh with a wooly undercoat).
Both the German Shepherd and Dutch Shepherd will need regular and intense training. Both the Dutch Shepherd and the German Shepherd are very loyal and intelligent, meaning they are relatively easy to train. But the German Shepherd is the better option for those who have never had a dog before.
They are calm indoors and love to run outdoors. Training and socialization, along with exercise, are extremely important. These dogs need physical and mental outlets for their high energy and stamina to prevent negative behaviors. Luckily, they're easy to train.
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.
Belgian Malinois can cost between $1,000 and $2,000 depending on each individual breeder. Dutch Shepherds will usually cost around $1,000 like Malinois.
Dutch Shepherd (224 PSI)
They are also popular as family pets thanks to their loyalty and trainability. These dogs have the strongest bite force of 224 psi, which is one of the reasons they are often used in law enforcement.
Epilepsy: Dutch Shepherds have been known to be predisposed to epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures. Proper management and medication under veterinary supervision are essential for affected dogs.
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.
When selecting what to feed your Dutch Shepherd, choose a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish.