Dutch Shepherd Puppies for Sale

Country of Origin:

Netherlands

Available Puppies

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Breed Characteristics

Average Size: Medium

Average Lifespan: 11-14 Years

Kid/Pet Friendly: Sometimes

Registry: aca,akc,other

Activity Level: high

Shedding Level: moderate

Grooming Level: moderate

Trainability: high

Good For Novice Owners: moderate

Adaptability: moderate

Prey Drive: moderate

Watchdog: very alert

Breed Information

Overview

The Dutch Shepherd is a herding dog that originated in the Netherlands in the 1800s. They are also known as the Dutch Herder or Hollandse Herder. The Dutch Shepherd was a versatile, intelligent, and independent working dog commonly used by farmers and shepherds to guard flocks of sheep, herd them, and keep them away from crops.

One of the facts about Dutch Shepherds is that they were also known to be a reliable farmhand who would herd the cows for milking and pull milk carts. The Dutch Shepherd would also alert farm owners when strangers came onto the property and even kept the chickens away from the garden that was kept for use in the kitchen. These dogs were bred to be sturdy in order to adapt to herding over harsh rural regions and so that they had few demands in a sparse environment.

The first breed standard in the Netherlands was developed in 1898. The Dutch Shepherd has been recorded in the AKC Foundation Stock Service since 2012. The American Kennel Club currently recognizes the Dutch Shepherd as a part of the Miscellaneous Class, which means the breed does not yet have full recognition. But, they have been given the Herding Group designation.

Although they have maintained their herding and farm dog skills, the Dutch Shepherd is also a versatile working dog that can handle a variety of jobs. They have proven to be a good fit for work as a police dog, search and rescue dog, tracking dog, and even a guide dog! In fact, they are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units.

Temperament

A Dutch Shepherd is a loyal, affectionate companion and a highly intelligent dog breed. They make a great addition to a family as they get along well with children and other animals. Their intuitive nature allows them to distinguish between when it’s time to work and time to play, which results in a focused, hardworking dog when on the job and a playful pooch when they’re not working. These dogs are also active, alert, and watchful, which makes them a good watchdog. Because they were bred to be guard dogs and herding dogs, they may be suspicious or wary of strangers. As with any dog, socialization early and often results in a well-rounded dog that is confident in a variety of situations and with different people.

Did You Know?

It’s no coincidence that this dog breed has an independent streak. They were often tasked with herding the sheep to pasture in the morning and bringing them back to the barn in the evening and expected to do so on their own without prodding or guidance.