Dutch Shepherd Dog Breed Story at Dog Grooming!
Dutch Shepherd Dog Breed Story at Dog Grooming! The Dutch Shepherd is an athletic, independent, and clever breed with a strong herding drive. Originally, these dogs were developed to keep flocks of sheep in a certain region. As a result, it is a breed that is alert and robust, making it an ideal all-around farm dog.
They are robust and nimble, with a reputation for herding, obedience, and protection. Though these high-energy dogs will demand constant physical and mental stimulation, they are devoted and protective of their families.
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The uncommon Dutch Shepherd, which comes from the Netherlands as its name indicates, is sometimes mistaken with German Shepherds. Despite their shared history, this less popular species is said to be simpler to train and may make excellent family companions in an active environment.
Dutch Shepherd History:
The Dutch Shepherd, like the majority of Shepherd dogs, was bred for herding purposes. Dutch Herders are another name for them. Because of the huge amount of arable and livestock farming1 in the Netherlands in the 19th century, they were in great demand. Because of their versatility, they were frequently used as farm security dogs. Their strength allowed them to pull carts.
In 1898, the first breed standard was established, and in 1914, it was modified to include exclusively brindle colouring. This let them to be distinguished from their German and Belgian Shepherd relatives.
Land reclamation was prevalent in the early twentieth century as farming became more mechanised. The talents of the Dutch Shepherd were no longer in need due to contemporary farming practises. During WWII, dog breeding almost came to a standstill, and many dogs died as a result of the conflict. These lovely dogs were on the verge of extinction.
Despite the fact that after the war, enthusiasts rebuilt breeding programmes, the Dutch Shepherd is still an uncommon breed. They retain their wits, temperaments, and working abilities. They are frequently utilised by law enforcement and the military for search and rescue, as well as as support dogs.
How to Care Dutch Shepherd:
A household that is lively and stimulating is ideal for a Dutch Shepherd. They aren’t meant to be left alone for lengthy periods of time. If kids do not receive adequate enrichment, problem behaviours are likely to emerge.
They require regular walks and, ideally, will live with a family who would let them to ‘work.’ Agility, nose work, and obedience are just a few of the competitive canine sports they excel at.
When they have enough mental and physical stimulation, they become quiet and peaceful around the house, and they aren’t seen as high-maintenance.
They are a loving, faithful, and loyal dog who builds deep bonds with their family, and they get along with other dogs and children given the proper introductions.
Their innate guarding tendencies may cause them to be protective and territorial, and training will be necessary to ensure that this behaviour is channelled properly. You should also be aware of their natural herding inclinations. If they begin to focus too much on herding and chasing, be prepared to ask for other behaviours.
They can be stubborn and self-reliant. This, paired with their strong intelligence, implies that if they do not given explicit teaching, they will devise their own method of doing things. It will be necessary to provide early, appropriate, and continuous beneficial training and socialising. You’ll be surprised at how fast they catch up on your cues and like learning when you work on their training.
The brindle coat of the Dutch Shepherd occurs in three varieties: short, smooth, long-haired, and wire/rough-coated. The wire-haired variant is in short supply. Weekly grooming will be necessary for the smooth and long-haired kinds to eliminate stray hair and keep their coat and skin in good shape. You may need to use a decent de-shedding instrument like a Furminator and have the vacuum cleaner handy during their yearly moults!
Health Issues:
Unlike its more well-known relative, the German Shepherd, the Dutch Shepherd has few inheritable diseases and is generally considered a relatively healthy breed.
There are just a few circumstances that can be problematic, and they occur in small numbers. A competent breeder will have done all of the necessary health checks on the parents.
Hip dysplasia affects many large breed dogs, notably Shepherds, and the Dutch Shepherd is no different. However, a competent breeder will do health checks.
Goniodysplasia is a condition in which the flow of fluid from the eye is impaired. It can result in blindness in extreme situations. The rough-haired variation of the breed has been proven to be affected by this ailment, which is unusual. Again, excellent breeders will look for this issue in their parents.
Inflammatory Myopathy:
Inflammatory Myopathy is a new inheritable illness that affects only Dutch Shepherds, according to recent research. It is a progressive disease characterised by fast muscle deterioration. There is no treatment, however parents can be health-screened to prevent their puppies from acquiring the disease.
Nutrition and Diet:
It’s critical to feed your Dutch Shepherd a high-quality, portion-controlled food, just like any other dog. If they live a very active lifestyle, you may want to consider feeding them a higher-protein diet or one that is specifically developed for active dogs.