Character & Temperament

The Dutch Shepherd is known for its bright and active character. These dogs are very intelligent and learn quickly, making them excellent working dogs. But they also know how to impress in the family with their devotion and their sweet nature. Like most herding dogs, Dutch Shepherds are very active and require lots of exercise and mental stimulation. They love completing tasks and feel most comfortable when they have a task to work on. Boredom and lack of challenge can lead to restlessness and undesirable behavior in this breed, so it is important to keep their mind and body well-used. In general, Dutch Shepherds are very people-oriented and form strong bonds with their family. They are loyal and protective, which makes them good guard dogs. At the same time, they are also playful and enjoy spending time with their people. They typically get along well with children and can also get along well with other dogs and pets if properly socialized. Although they are very attached to their people, Dutch Shepherds can learn to stay alone if they are trained to do so from an early age. However, like all dogs, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Despite their herding background, Dutch Shepherds do not have a strong tendency to exhibit hunting or prey-catching behavior. However, they should always be well supervised and kept safe, especially when around smaller animals. Their alertness and strong protective instincts can cause them to react to unknown animals or people in their territory. Overall, the Dutch Shepherd is a versatile, intelligent and loyal dog that can excel as both a working dog and a family dog. His energy and intelligence make him an excellent choice for active people who have the time and commitment to take care of his needs. With the right care and training, the Dutch Shepherd can be a wonderful companion who will share his life with you full of loyalty and love.

What Awaits You

Dutch Shepherds are intelligent dogs with lots of energy. They must be exercised according to their type and are not beginner dogs.

Housing & Care

Dutch Shepherds are active dogs that feel most comfortable when they have enough space to run and play. This makes them less suitable for living exclusively in an apartment in the city, unless you can provide them with enough exercise and activity. They typically get along well with children and can also get along well with other pets provided they have been properly socialized.

Training & Education

Dutch Shepherds are intelligent and eager to learn, which usually makes training a joy. They love completing tasks and learning new things. However, their eagerness can sometimes make them "ball junkies." make or tempt them to work too much. It is therefore important to teach them to calm down and learn to tolerate frustration and impulse control. It is important to encourage this breed's natural need for exercise and mental stimulation to ensure their happiness and well-being. They are ideal for various dog sports such as agility, obedience, flyball and much more. However, it is also important to give them alternatives and prevent them from becoming too obsessive.

Nutrition & Care

Dutch Shepherds require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and energy levels. You can either choose high-quality commercial dog food or consider a balanced raw diet, but in either case it is important that the diet provides all the necessary nutrients. In terms of care: The Dutch Shepherd (Longhair) has a beautiful, long coat with an undercoat that requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and skin problems. They shed moderately, but can shed more intensively during the shedding phases in spring and autumn. They are adapted to the climate in the Netherlands and also cope well with the German climate.