Characteristics
Large
55–62 cm
23–32 kg
12-15 years
Shepherds and cattle dogs, except for Swiss cattle dogs
Brief information
Character
Dutch shepherd or, as it is also called, Herder is a close relative of Belgian shepherds. Despite the fact that officially the breed was recognized only at the end of the 19th century, it appeared much earlier. Long before that, the shepherds helped Dutch farmers of the mouth of sheep and cows. Today, Herder is still a work dog, although it is successfully exhibited at the most prestigious exhibitions.
The Dutch shepherd is a worthy representative of the family and a real rural resident, a working, serious and responsible. Thanks to his alertness and incredulity to strangers, he can become an excellent guard and defender of the house. It is interesting that Herder does not attack uninvited guests, but he will not let them into his territory he has such tactics.
Dutch shepherd needs human society. Without a beloved owner and family, she begins to yearn, her character spoils, and the dog becomes uncontrollable.
Herder is not the easiest to train a pet, despite his attentiveness and quick learning. Like any shepherd, it requires a strong hand. A person soft and quiet dog simply will not listen. However, too hard methods for the dog are not suitable. The newcomer is unlikely to cope with Herder’s temperament on his own, it is better to seek help from a dog handler. A professional will help find a dog approach.
Herder is a fascinated dog. He is always busy with something. Sitting for a long time, representatives of this breed are not able to lie and be lazy. Therefore, if you do not provide a pet with long walks and physical exercises, its behavior can become a destructive. Simply put, master’s boots, legs of tables and chairs and furniture upholstery all this will be destroyed.
By virtue of his intelligence, Herder treats children with understanding, but it is unlikely that he will endure an unceremonious attitude towards himself. Therefore, the child should be able to communicate with animals.
The Dutch shepherd is calmly subject to early socialization to relatives. It is important to show a little puppy that there is nothing dangerous in the world around us. You can start socializing a pet already in 2-3 months.
Care
Caring for the Dutch shepherd depends on its type of wool. The most difficult thing is to contain longhaired pets, they must be combed every three days.
The wool of hardhaired pets does not fall on its own, so it is recommended to be taken to professional glory during the molt of dogs.
The easiest way to care for shorthaired dogs: just wipe their wool with a damp cloth or just with your hand to remove the dropped hairs.
The Dutch shepherd is one of the few breeds that have not yet detected a single genetic disease. This is a very healthy and strong dog.
Conditions of detention
Dutch shepherd is unlikely to feel comfortable in a city apartment. These are freedomloving dogs, and the best habitat for them is the courtyard of a country house. You can’t put them on a chain in any case. But your own insulated aviary and free walking is the key to Herder’s happy life.
