by Angie Pollock

Created on: August 04, 2009

For many years, the Dutch Shepherd was utilized as a herding dog. Their popularity declined as the need for these types of dogs became lessened. Just as the German Shepherd is used in the United States, the Dutch Shepherd is filling an important role in its native land as a guide dog, house pet, guard dog, and right alongside the police force.

History

Also known as the Hollandse Herdershond, this breed is believed to have evolved during the 19th century in the Netherlands. Due to their physical attributes that resemble the Belgian Shepherd, the Dutch Shepherd could also be a descendent of some type of sheepdog breed. Because their appearance is so closely to that of the Belgian Shepherd, there has been some dispute if these are actually two different breeds. In Holland, the Dutch and Belgian Shepherd are categorized as two separate breeds but are sometimes grouped together in other countries.

Characteristics

The Dutch Shepherd can be found in three different varieties - Short-haired, Long-haired, and Wire-haired. Physically, this breed is quite similar to the Belgian Shepherd. They also have a resemblance to the German Shepherd but are a unique breed in itself. Sources within the US describe the coat color of the Dutch Shepherd as brindle. In their native country, the colors vary depending upon the coat length and texture.

Short-haired and Long-haired Dutch Shepherds have a gold or silver coat with streaks of black while the Wire-haired is blue-black or grey-black. The coat is stiff on all three varieties and the Wire-haired will also have some waviness to the hairs. The coat of the Wire-haired will molt twice yearly which must then be plucked. These canines average in shoulder height from 21 to 25 inches with males being taller. Average weight is approximately 65 pounds. A black mask is not required but is preferred by breeders.

Temperament

The Dutch Shepherd's personality is true to the "Shepherd" persona. This is an obedient, reliable, lively, and intelligent breed. The breed is debatable as a "family pet" just like the German Shepherd. Like many owners of other Shepherd breeds have noted - when trained correctly, given ample space, and sufficient amounts of exercise, this breed makes an excellent house pet. Those that do not get the exercise they need may display behavioral issues due to the pent up energy.

The Dutch Shepherd is currently recognized by the CKC, FCI, NKC, APRI, and ACR. There are many who have never seen or even heard of this breed outside of its native country. The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not currently recognize the Dutch Shepherd as an official breed. However, several clubs, organizations, and rescue groups are located within the United States.

References:

THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DOG BREEDS, by Joan Palmer, copyright 1994.

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/dutchshepherd.htm

http://www.dutchshepherdrescue.org/aboutDS.html

http://vcristel.members.atlantic.net/history.htm

http://www.dogster.com/breeds/Dutch_Shepherd

Learn more about this author, Angie Pollock.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.