The Dutch Shepherd (Hollandse Herder) has seen growing interest in recent years within professional K9 units.

Physical characteristics

  • Height: 57-62 cm at the withers (males), 55-60 cm (females)
  • Weight: 23-32 kg
  • Coat color: brindle, gold, or silver
  • Three coat types: short, long, rough

Temperament

Lively, intelligent and deeply attached to its owner, with a reputation for being somewhat calmer than the Malinois after exertion.

Remarkable health

The breed escaped extreme cosmetic selection, with dysplasia prevalence generally lower than in the German Shepherd.

Roles and disciplines

Police, customs, security, search and rescue, mondioring, IGP, agility, traction sports.

A demanding breed

Under-stimulated, it quickly develops restlessness or reactivity.

Training with finesse

Sensitive despite its rugged appearance, it responds poorly to force.

This article is one of the first fully translated into English on our blog — also available: cyanobacteria in stagnant water, the Bernedoodle and choosing a dog club. To structure a working dog's training from the very first months, our K9 handler selection and training service is here to help.