The Hollandse Herdershond: The versatile Dutch shepherd dog
Character and temperament
The Hollandse Herdershond is known for its alert and eager-to-learn character. These dogs are extremely intelligent, loyal and have a strong will to work. They are courageous and alert, but at the same time friendly and even-tempered. Due to their herding dog past, they have a strong protective instinct, which makes them excellent guard dogs.
Appearance
Hollandse Herdershonden are of medium size and have a strong but elegant build. They have a dense, weatherproof coat that comes in three varieties: short-haired, long-haired and rough-haired. The coat colors vary from brindle to different shades of brown with black accents. Their appearance radiates agility and strength, which makes them impressive and attractive dogs.
Care and health
The grooming of a Hollandse Herdershond varies depending on the coat type. Short-haired dogs require regular brushing to remove loose hair, while long-haired and rough-haired varieties require more grooming to prevent matting. All varieties benefit from occasional baths and regular dental and ear care.
In terms of health, Hollandse Herdershonden are robust and not prone to many hereditary diseases. Nevertheless, it is important to watch out for hip dysplasia and eye diseases, as these can occur in many medium-sized breeds.
Height and weight
This dog breed reaches a shoulder height of 55 to 62 cm and a weight of 25 to 30 kg. They have a muscular build, which is necessary for their working tasks, but still offer sufficient agility.
Exercise and training
Hollandse Herdershonden are very active dogs that need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They are not suited to life in a small city apartment unless they have sufficient access to daily long walks and training sessions. These dogs love to perform tasks and excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience and Schutzhund.
Training recommendations
Training a Hollandse Herdershond should start early and be consistent. Because of their intelligence and eagerness to please, they learn quickly, but they need clear leadership and regular challenges to avoid being underchallenged. Positive reinforcement is the key to successful training.
Behavior and interactions
Hollandse Herdershonden are generally good-natured and get along well with children and other pets if they have been properly socialized. However, their protective instincts can sometimes make them territorial, so early socialization is important. They are loyal and affectionate towards their family and love to be part of family life.
Recognition and interesting facts
The breed is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and belongs to Group 1, the herding and driving dogs. What many people don't know: The Hollandse Herdershond is not only an excellent working dog, but also a loyal family companion. Its versatility and adaptability make it a fascinating and rewarding choice for experienced dog owners.
