Dutch shepherd dog called dog handlersHerder, refers to the 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.
History of the breed
Actually, already from the name it is clear in what country the Dutch shepherd was formed. Photos of the dog you can see in the article.
It is difficult to say for what reason the breed is notgot spread. An amazing parallel that dog handlers will probably never give an explanation for is the recognition and spread of a dog in its homeland and non-recognition of its features. Perhaps this situation can be attributed to the lack of clear divisions of sheepdogs: each country preferred its own variety. The second reason is hiding, probably in the unsightly form of a dog. The herder (Gollan Sheepdog) was exclusively a working dog, and the selection criteria were not exterior (external) qualities, but workers. Purity of blood was the second thing.
It is believed that the current form of the DutchShepherd began to acquire only by the beginning of the 18th century. Although the descriptions of this dog come across in documents dating from much earlier. Some people call the Belgian Shepherd's ancestor Herder, others - the German shepherd. In any case, both breeds are directly related to the formation of the Dutch Shepherd Dog.
At exhibitions, the herder was listed as “localShepherd "or" local breed. It also speaks about the low prevalence of the breed. The recognized name Dutch shepherd received in 1878. It was not a question of any standard until 1935. That was when the question of exterior and working qualities was raised. But the official standard adopted by the canine organization FCI was approved only in 1960.
Prevalence today
Surprisingly, since the sixties of the pastcentury the situation with the breed has not changed. How common is the Dutch shepherd today? Puppies of this breed most often remain inside the country and rarely go abroad. That is why we have so few nurseries dealing with herders.
Понять, почему порода до сих пор не заняла worthy position in the world of working dogs, impossible. Over the past decades, the herders have taken on a more noble appearance, and in terms of working qualities and endurance they can even give odds to German shepherds.
a brief description of
The Dutch Shepherd Dog is considered a rural dog.Herderas are very active and hardy. They are loyal, calm, affectionate with children. Very attached to the owners. In relation to other dogs can be aggressive.
The Dutch Shepherd is essentially a guard,however, it 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, a watchman, a shepherd, and a guide. Almost universal. Well trained.
Exterior
A long, not massive head that is slightlylarger in coarse-haired dogs, with a mild transition to the muzzle. Non-convex forehead. Parietal part somewhat shorter than muzzle itself. The eyes are almond-shaped, medium in size, preferably dark. Small ears should be in a standing position. Sinks "look" forward. Ears are triangular, roundness of tops is inadmissible. The case is quite strong, folded in proportion. Ribs slightly arched. Chest deep. Neck without visible dewlap. Straight back short, strong, with a good strong loin. Limbs muscular. The backbone is strong. Paws rounded, arched, always gathered into a lump. Laxity of pasterns is not welcome. Claw pads should be black. The low-set tail hangs loosely (at the end is a slight bend) and touches the hock joints (if the dog is not excited), it can rise in motion.
The most common type of herders is a short-haired one, which has a rather thick undercoat. There are “tail-feather”, “collar”, “pants”.
The second species has a long but tightadjacent, thick and straight coat. Waviness and curliness is not welcome. In the type of wire hair, the guard hair is hard, wire-like, loosely fitting. The undercoat is shaggy. Background color of hairless dogs is gray-blue or so-called “pepper-salt”. Cruelty either golden or silver. In other species, the main color is brown or gray, with vertical stripes. Black mask is welcome. Growing males to 62 cm, females - up to 60 cm.
Care
In the food herder (Dutch Shepherd)unpretentious, but, like any dog, should receive a sufficient amount of not only meat, but also vitamins with minerals. The Dutchman has a hardened immunity for centuries, but this does not cancel the mandatory regular veterinary examinations and vaccinations.
The dog requires regular combing (at least once a week and daily - when shedding). Haircut is contraindicated.
The preferred content is captive.Living space should be thought out. Booth make warmed, without drafts. Concrete (cement) floors in the aviary are not allowed. Undesirable location in direct sun (ideally - 50x50).
Required daily exercise (long walks).