The Dutch shepherd, called canine herder, belongs to shepherd dogs, but due to its qualities it is often used as a service dog. Unfortunately, this breed is not widespread and can be considered rare.
Breed history
Actually, it’s clear from the name in which country the Dutch shepherd was formed. You can see the photo of the dog in the article.
It is difficult to say why the breed is not widespread. An amazing parallel, which dog handlers will probably never give an explanation, is the recognition and dissemination of the dog in the homeland and the non-recognition of its features. Perhaps this situation can be attributed to the lack of clear divisions of the shepherd dogs: each country preferred its own variety. The second reason is probably hiding in the plain appearance of the dog. Herder (Dutch Shepherd Dog) was an exclusively working dog, and the selection criteria did not list external (external) qualities, but workers. Purity of blood was the second thing.
It is believed that the Dutch shepherd began to acquire its present appearance only by the beginning of the 18th century. Although descriptions of this dog come across in documents dating much earlier. Some call the Belgian Shepherd ancestor of Herder , others - German. In any case, both breeds are directly related to the formation of the Dutch Shepherd.
At exhibitions, the herder was listed as a “local shepherd” or “local breed”. This also indicates a low prevalence of the breed. The Dutch shepherd received the recognized name in 1878. Some kind of standard was not discussed until 1935. It was then that the question was raised about the exterior and working qualities. But the official standard adopted by the FCI cynological organization was approved only in 1960.
Prevalence today
Surprisingly, the situation with the breed has not changed since the sixties of the last century. How common is the Dutch shepherd today? Puppies of this breed most often remain inside the country and rarely travel abroad. That is why we have so few nurseries dealing with herders.
It is impossible to understand why the breed still has not occupied a worthy position in the world of working dogs. Over the past decades, herders have taken a more noble appearance, and in terms of working qualities and endurance they can give odds even to German shepherds.
a brief description of
The Dutch Shepherd is considered a rural dog. Herders are very active and hardy. They are faithful, calm, affectionate with children. Very attached to the owners. In relation to strange dogs can be aggressive.
The Dutch Shepherd is essentially a guard, but is great for working in the police and army. Herder is a great choice for sports lovers with a dog. This dog can be a companion, and a guard, and a shepherd, and a guide. Almost universal. Well trained.
Exterior
A long, not massive head, which is slightly larger in coarse-haired dogs, with a mild transition to the muzzle. Convex forehead. The parietal part is somewhat shorter than the muzzle itself. The eyes are almond-shaped, medium in size, preferably dark. Small ears should be upright. Sinks "look" forward. The ears are triangular, the roundness of the tops is unacceptable. The case is quite strong, proportionately folded. Ribs slightly convex. The chest is deep. Neck without visible suspension. The straight back is short, strong, with a good strong lower back. The limbs are muscular. The backbone is strong. The legs are rounded, arched, always gathered in a lump. The licentiousness of the metacarpus is not welcome. Claw pads should be black. The low-set tail hangs freely (at the end - a slight bend) and touches the hock joints (if the dog is not aroused), in movement it can rise.
The most common type of herder is short-haired, with a fairly thick undercoat. Stand out “tail-feather”, “collar”, “pants”.
The second variety has a long, but tight-fitting, thick and straight coat. Waviness and curl are not welcome. The type of coarse outer hair is rigid, wire-like, loose fitting. The undercoat is shaggy. The background color of the wire-haired dogs is blue-gray or the so-called pepper-salt. Tigerness is either golden or silver. In other species, the main color is brown or gray, with vertical stripes. A black mask is welcome. Male growth up to 62 cm, female - up to 60 cm.
Care
Herder (Dutch Shepherd) is unpretentious in nutrition, but, like any dog, should receive a sufficient amount of not only meat, but also vitamins and minerals. The Dutchman has immunity hardened over the centuries, but this does not cancel the obligatory regular veterinary examinations and vaccinations.
The dog requires regular combing (at least once a week and daily - when molting). Haircut is contraindicated.
Preferred content is aviary. Living space should be thought out. The booth is made insulated, without drafts. Concrete (cement) floors in the aviary are not allowed. Undesirable location in direct sun (ideally - 50x50).
Mandatory daily exercises (long walks).