Dutch Shepherd Dog
Summary
The Dutch Shepherd is a shepherd breed from the Netherlands that, despite being less well-known than its cousin the Belgian Shepherd, is equally capable and versatile. Existing in three coat varieties (short, long and rough), it is easily identifiable by its brindle coat pattern, which distinguishes it from other European shepherd breeds. Today it is widely used as a police, military and service dog, although it is still rare outside the Netherlands and Belgium.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 57–62 cm
- Height (female)
- 55–60 cm
- Weight (male)
- 23–32 kg
- Weight (female)
- 20–25 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Three varieties — short coat (dense and harsh), long coat (straight and close-fitting), and rough coat (woolly and curly)
- Common Colors
- Golden brindle, silver brindle, blue-grey brindle (in short and long coat varieties); grey salt and pepper (rough coat)
Temperament & Personality
The Dutch Shepherd is an active, intelligent and extremely versatile dog, combining devotion to its owner with the independence necessary for work. It is energetic, alert and quick to learn — qualities that make it excellent for police and military work. With the family it is affectionate, but can be reserved with strangers. Its high energy and need for work require a committed owner.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 5400–120 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate
- Shedding
- Moderate to heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Inflammatory myopathy (necrotizing — breed-specific)
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- Myopathy test
- OFA orthopedic evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
