History
Earlier the Dutch Shepherd was used by the farmers to protect crops from cattle and hens to say away from the kitchen garden of the farm. In the mid-twentieth, its population decreased because of the usage of advanced farming techniques, and its breeding program was stopped. Currently, the numbers have improved and have gained recognition since 1995 from UKC and in 2012 from AKC's Foundation Stock Service.
Temperament and Personality
The Dutch Shepherd has the characteristics of reliability, watchfulness, and royalty. Since they are active work dogs, they work independently. Their faithful, willing, and loving nature makes them excellent family dogs. It gets along with other pets while herding. When provoked, they attack and do not show any chances of shyness, fear, or viciousness.
Care
Exercise
As the breed is a hard-working one, they require jogging, running, or walking regularly. They are good at playing games like fly ball, weight pulling, jumping, agility, disc dog, and tracking.
Grooming
It requires frequent brushing to remove dead hair. Pluck its rough fur with a stripped knife, but avoid brushing. Instead, use a coarse comb for occasional combing and bathe them only when necessary to prevent dirt accumulation.
Health Problems
The dog rarely suffers from health issues, but might suffer from genetic problems like hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, inflammatory bowel disease, cryptorchidism, myositis, and masticatory. Their rough hair can also be prone to goniodysplasia, an eye disease.
Training
Train and socialize them initially with people and other pets. Make sure they are meeting with new ones and indulging in fun-filled activities. Their independent and aggressive nature can make teaching difficult. So teach them to be obedient, but with positive techniques.
Feeding
Serve them with 2 to 4 cups of high-quality dry dog food split into at least two meals every day. Sometimes give them a mix of broth, dry, canned food, and water to balance their diet.
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