Longhaired Dutch Shepherd
Dutch Shepherd, Hoolandse Herdershond
Traditionally the Dutch Shepherds were used to herd sheep, take them to market and keep them away from the crops. Aside from sheep they would gather cows at milking time and pull their milk carts. Today they are often used as police dogs, search and tracking, and as guide dogs for the blind in their homeland and other parts of Europe.
Longhaired Dutch Shepherd Standards
- 22-25"
- 65-67 lbs
- medium-sized shepherd
- erect, triangular ears and long tail
- long, straight, harsh coat
- golden brindle
- silver brindle
- may have black mask
History of the Longhaired Dutch Shepherd
The Longhaired Dutch Shepherd has been herding sheep in Holland since at least the 18th century. It is one of three different varieties (not breeds), the other two being the Wirehaired and Shorthaired, which were divided at the end of the 20th century. All types were decimated after WWII and although breeding continued afterward there was a need to diversify the breeding pool. Some unknown dogs were used, but the German Shepherd and Belgian Shepherds are both close relatives and were likely used to revitalize the Longhaired. Today it is the rarest of the three and could possibly face extinction.
Related Breeds: