Dutch Shepherd Breed Profile: Essential Facts
Energetic and loving, Dutch Shepherds date back to the 1800s, and they look the same today as they did then.
- AKC Group: Foundation Stock Service (Herding Group upon full recognition)
- Weight: 50–70 lbs.
- Height: 21–26 in. (male)20–25 in. (female)
- Life Span: 15 years
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Key Characteristics
Dutch Shepherds are medium-sized, muscular herding dogs from the Netherlands.
They have wedge-shaped heads and almond-shaped eyes. Their ears stand upright. The tail hangs down with a slight curve at the end when resting. The feet have arched toes.
The double coat has a woolly undercoat. There are 3 coat lengths/varieties: Short Long Rough (wirehaired)
Coat colors include gold or silver brindle with some white and black marking possible.
Note that the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists a yellow brindle color, which contradicts the breed standard and breed club.
Where They Came From
Dutch Shepherds originated in the Netherlands in the 1800s.
They herded sheep, cows and other livestock as well as protected farms and signaled the presence of strangers. These versatile dogs were loyal and intelligent companions and workers.
When industrialization prevailed later that century, the need for these dogs decreased.
To keep the breed thriving, Dutch shepherd fans created the Nederlandse Herdershonden Club in 1898, along with the first breed standard.
In subsequent decades, attempts at changing the breed standard and the dogs, such as crossing them with German Shepherd Dogs, did not yield favorable results, and fanciers spent years breeding out the undesirable characteristics.
Today, Dutch Shepherds look identical to those of centuries past.
The AKC added the breed to its Foundation Stock Service in 2012. The Dutch Shepherd moved to the Miscellaneous Class in 2017. Eventually, if the breed reaches full recognition, the dogs will be listed under the Herding Group.
How Friendly Are They?
Dutch Shepherds are great guard and watch dogs.
They are also smart and energetic, making them ideal for active families. They are loyal and protective, love children, and get along with other animals. 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.
Because of the family loyalty and high energy, avoid kenneling your Dutch Shepherd whenever possible.
Is the Dutch Shepherd the Right Dog for You?
Exercise Needs
HIGH: This versatile dog can run all day, just as his ancestors did on Dutch farms.
Take your Dutch Shepherd on walks and jogs daily to help them expel energy. Even better, let your dog run all day -- every day -- in a private, enclosed but sizable space, such as a large yard.
The breed also excels at performance events and agility, so consider adding these to your dog's exercise routine.
Grooming Needs
MEDIUM: Weekly brushing with an occasional bath will keep your Dutch Shepherd's coat -- whether short or long -- in good shape.
A rough or wirehaired coat needs frequent brushing as well as stripping twice a year. Don't forget about the teeth, ears and nails.
All coat varieties have an undercoat and can experience seasonal shedding biannually, so brush your dog's coat more often during these periods.
Health Problems
LOW: According to the Dutch breed club, this dog "has no serious physical or mental hereditary illnesses." The few health concerns include: Hip dysplasia Goniodysplasia
If you get a Dutch Shepherd through breeders, make sure they have performed health screenings on the dog for hip and eye issues. Check out this Dutch Shepherd's stellar agility:
Where to Adopt One
We found more than 150 Dutch Shepherds and mixes available for adoption throughout the country. Check your local shelters and rescues. You could also try searching our Pet Adoption Center now for a Dutch Shepherd to adopt.
If you contact a breeder, watch for signs of any puppy mill operations. And, again, ask for health clearances on the hips and eyes.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, the Dutch Shepherd and Belgian Malinois are different breeds. Dutch Shepherds have a brindle coat and are more versatile herding dogs, while Malinois are typically tan with a black mask and are primarily used for police and military work.
Yes, Dutch Shepherds can be great family dogs for experienced owners. They are intelligent, loyal, and protective but require consistent training, socialization, and plenty of exercise.
Dutch Shepherds are rare because they were originally bred as farm dogs, and modernization reduced the need for their herding skills. Limited breeding and competition from other working breeds have kept their numbers low.
Dutch Shepherds are a naturally developed breed and not a mix. They share ancestry with Belgian and German Shepherds but have remained a distinct breed with strong herding and working instincts.
Additional Resources
- The American Kennel Club's Dutch Shepherd Page
- American Dutch Shepherd Association
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale Dutch Shepherd Dog Standard
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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