Charlotte Foster
The Dutch Shepherd Dog is a former herding dog and was later used as a guard dog or police dog. The animals are self-reliant because of their previous job and need a loving but consistent hand. Their character is loyal, willing to work, obedient, intelligent, and persistent. With appropriate socialization and training, the Dutch shepherd dog is a great companion in everyday life and is also suitable as a family dog if used appropriately.
From herding dog to family dog
Like its close relative, the Belgian Shepherd, the Dutch Shepherd originated in the “Noord-Braband” region of Belgium. When Belgium separated from the Netherlands, the working dog population also split, resulting in two breeds that are closely related.
The Dutch Shepherd’s original job was herding the flock of sheep. This activity requires a certain autonomy, which is still part of the nature of dogs. The breed has been recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) since 1960.
The character of the Dutch Shepherd
Dutch Shepherds are people-friendly and extremely studious and will happily carry out any task assigned to them. For this reason, the animals offer themselves as protection and guard dogs, but also as therapy dogs. The intelligent and loyal four-legged friend also makes a great family dog, provided you use it in a manner appropriate to its species and make a sovereign “pack leader”.
The active dogs enjoy exercise and also want to keep themselves busy mentally. With optimal socialization and consistent training, Dutch Shepherds prove to be loyal and attentive best friends to their people.
Training and keeping of the Dutch shepherd dog
The people-friendly and independent dog by nature needs good socialization from the breeder, which you as the owner must continue. Attending puppy lessons and dog school are important so that the dog can fully develop its wonderful nature. The following applies to training: The animals need loving and consistent training by a strong leader who can also deal with the independence of the dogs. If the dog trustingly follows you as the owner, it is an absolutely loyal and protective family member.
The Dutch Shepherd Dog will generally obey its main caregiver, but it respects the rest of the family. Ideally, the Dutchman who is willing to work can do training as a protection dog or therapy dog after basic training. As a companion dog or family dog, he otherwise needs his daily balance in the form of sufficient exercise and intellectual activity. Long walks in nature, jogging or cycling, mentally demanding games, and dog sports are ideal for keeping the active Dutchman busy. At best, he lives in a big house with a garden that he can guard.
Dutch Shepherd Dog Grooming
The Dutchman is quite easy to care for and does not make any special demands in this regard. You should brush him regularly during the change of coat. Long-haired German Shepherds require a little more intensive grooming.