Origin of the Dutch schapendoes
The Dutch Schapendoes is a sheepdog originating in the Netherlands It was a very popular breed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, however, was on the verge of extinction during World War II. With the end of the war in 1945, serious development of this breed began, until in 1947 the Schapendoes breed club of the Netherlands was founded.
Since its origins, has been a sheepdog used to guard flocks of sheep, given its great perseverance, speed and agility of him. His strength to jump and his intelligence to act independently make him a great sheepdog.
Characteristics of Dutch schapendoes
The Dutch Schapendoes is a long-haired, medium-sized, lightly built dog. Females usually weigh between 12-20 kg and have a height of between 40-47 cm, while males weigh between 12-25 kg and measure between 43-50 cm.
The International Cinological Federation (FCI) classifies it within group 1, of sheepdogs and cattle dogs. Specifically, it is part of section 1, of shepherd dogs. You can consult the Classification of dog breeds according to the FCI, here.
Below, we mention the main characteristics of its racial standard:
- Head: It has abundant fur on the head that gives the impression that it is much larger than it really is it is. In addition, the fronto-nasal depression (stop) is well developed, although not steep.
- The eyes: They are large, round and brown, and occupy a fairly frontal position on the face. The gaze, open, loyal and lively, is very characteristic of this breed.
- The ears: they have a fairly high insertion and hang on both sides of the head. They have long fur and are quite mobile.
- The neck: strong and thin, it joins a body with light and flexible bones.
- The tail: it is long and well covered with fur and feathers. Its position varies depending on the state of the animal. Thus, when the dog is at rest, the tail hangs very low. During the trot, it carries it quite high, swinging from side to side. During the gallop, it takes it horizontal, which serves to redirect the jump.
- The fur: This is undoubtedly one of the most striking features of the Dutch schapendoes. It has long, wavy, thick, fine and dry hair. In the areas where it is longer, it tends to form cords.
Colours of Dutch schapendoes
The coat of the Dutch Schapendoes can be any color (white, black, grey, beige, chocolate), although the darker shades The usual ones are those that vary from grayish blue to black.
Dutch schapendoes character
As a good sheepdog, the Dutch Schapendoes is an intelligent, cheerful and lively dog, which tends to remain always alert and vigilant. He has a friendly and spirited character, although at the same time he has quite a temperamentIn addition to being a good herding dog, it is also an exceptional companion animal, as they develop a great loy alty and affection towards their family and other acquaintances.
Dutch schapendoes care
Like any other breed, the Dutch Schapendoes need a series of basic care to stay he althy:
- Grooming: The coat of the Dutch Schapendoes should not be cut, as it has a protective and insulating function. To keep the hair he althy and free of tangles, it is necessary to perform a brushing a week Nails are fast-growing, so they should be trimmed regularly. Ears should be cleaned weekly and teeth brushed every 2-3 days.
- Exercise: The Schapendoes is a very active dog that needs daily exerciseto stay physically and mentally he althy. In addition to taking a couple of long walks a day, they need good mental stimulation at home, since they are dogs that tend to get bored easily.
- Food: the ration of a Dutch schapendoes can be both commercial and homemade, but in any case, it must be adapted to the age and activity level of the animal. If you have doubts, we leave you the following post on our site about I think or homemade food for dogs: what is better?
Dutch schapendoes education
The Dutch Schapendoes is a cunning and intelligent dog who loves to learn. In general, it is an easy-to-train breed, as it has a strong desire to please. However, can be quite stubborn, so positive training must be continuous and disciplined. In addition, they are intelligent dogs and capable of making decisions on their own, so it is common for them to try to trick their trainers if they have the opportunity.
The breed is suitable for families with children and other pets, although it is important to carry out correct socialization from an early age to avoid behaviors unwanted in adulthood. The Schapendoes is a dog that loves to work. In addition, due to its intelligence and ability, it is an ideal breed for practicing dog sports such as Agility or flyball.
You may be interested in the following article on how to Get Started with Agility.
He alth of the Dutch schapendoes
Overall, the Dutch Schapendoes is a he althy breed, with a life expectancy of around 12-15 years. However, like any other breed, the Schapendoes is not exempt from disease. One of the most common is progressive retinal atrophy, an inherited disease caused by a genetic mutation.
To learn more about Progressive Retinal Atrophy in dogs: treatment and symptoms, you can consult this article that we suggest.
Where to adopt a Dutch schapendoes?
The Dutch Schapendoes is not a common dog in Spain, so finding a specimen for adoption can be a complicated task. If you want to include a dog of this breed in the family, you can contact a club of this breed to guide your search. In any case, remember that what is truly important when adopting a new member of the family is not that they meet any racial standard, but that you can adapt to their needs and lifestyle.
