German Shepherds and Dutch Shepherds are two popular breeds of dog that bear many similarities in their temperament, physical appearance, and trainability.
While German Shepherds are widespread in the United States, Dutch Shepherds have a limited presence and mostly exist within their native Netherlands.
Both breeds were originally developed for herding. As a result, they are intelligent and loyal dogs that can excel in a variety of jobs—provided you give them the mental and physical stimulation needed to keep them happy.
German and Dutch shepherds differ mostly in size, coat, lifespan, popularity, and cost.
Because German Shepherds are larger than their Dutch counterparts and live shorter lives (meaning breeders can produce more litters before they die) most charge less for puppies—though there are exceptions to this rule!
Dutch Shepherds are rare dogs that you don’t come across every day. However, if you do, you are lucky enough!
Dutch Shepherd Vs. German Shepherd: History and Origins
The Dutch Shepherd and German Shepherd are two breeds with exciting and unique histories; each developed for a specific purpose.
The Dutch Shepherd has a long history, with records dating back to the 16th century in the Netherlands.
The breed was initially developed for herding and guarding livestock and also served as a versatile working dog that was used for various tasks, such as hunting, tracking, and even as a cart-puller.
In the early 20th century, breeders began to standardize the Dutch Shepherd, which led to the development of the three coat types seen today – short, long, and rough.
Despite the breed’s long history, the Dutch Shepherd is still relatively rare outside of its native country.
The German Shepherd, on the other hand, is a more recent breed developed in Germany in the late 19th century by a man named Max von Stephanitz.
Von Stephanitz wanted to create a breed of intelligent, versatile, and trainable dog that could be used for various working roles, such as herding, police work, and military service.
He took inspiration from local herding dogs and began to breed them selectively, eventually creating the German Shepherd as we know it today.
The breed quickly became popular in Germany and worldwide and remains one of the most popular dog breeds today.
One exciting aspect of the Dutch Shepherd and German Shepherd is their use in the two World Wars.
German Shepherds were used extensively by the German and Allied forces during World War I and II, thanks to their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility.
The Dutch Shepherd was also used in World War II by the Dutch Resistance, who used them to transport messages and supplies and to help downed Allied pilots escape.
Dutch Shepherd Vs. German Shepherd: Appearance and Physical Characteristics
The Dutch Shepherd and German Shepherd may look similar at first glance, but there are several critical differences in their appearance and physical characteristics.
One of the most apparent differences is their size. The Dutch Shepherd is typically smaller and lighter than the German Shepherd, with males standing around 22-25 inches tall and weighing 50-70 pounds. The German Shepherd can be up to 26 inches tall and weigh 90 pounds.
Another difference is their coat types – the Dutch Shepherd can have a short, long, or rough coat, while the German Shepherd has a distinctive double coat that is typically black and tan or sable in color.
The German Shepherd’s coat is also thicker and plusher than the Dutch Shepherd’s, which gives them a more imposing appearance.
Dutch Shepherd Vs. German Shepherd: Temperament and Personality
Dutch Shepherds are harder to educate and handle than German Shepherds since they are more independent and energetic.
They are ideal security dogs because they are renowned for being fiercely loyal to their family and home.
Inappropriate socialization can occasionally result in aggressiveness because of this feature.
The German Shepherd is known for being more loyal and obedient than the Dutch Shepherd.
This breed, which is typically easier to train and handle than its Dutch counterpart, has been used as police dogs since the early 20th century due in large part to their intelligence, versatility—and courage!
While they can be protective of their families and territory, they are generally less aggressive with strangers than other breeds.
Dutch Shepherd Vs. German Shepherd: Training and Exercise Needs
The Dutch Shepherd and German Shepherd are intelligent and energetic breeds requiring plenty of training and exercise to stay happy and healthy.
They excel at obedience training and are often used for police work, search and rescue, and other demanding roles.
However, the Dutch Shepherd can be more challenging to train and handle than the German Shepherd due to their independent nature and high energy levels.
They require plenty of socialization and early training to prevent behavioral issues like aggression or excessive barking.
They also need plenty of physical exercises to prevent destructive behavior, such as chewing or digging. Daily walks, runs, or hikes are essential for this breed, and they also enjoy playing games such as fetch or tug of war.
The German Shepherd, while still requiring plenty of training and exercise, is often easier to handle and train than the Dutch Shepherd.
They are eager to please their owners and thrive on positive reinforcement training. Daily walks or runs are essential for this breed, as are regular playtime and training sessions.
German Shepherds also enjoy participating in agility or obedience competitions, which can provide mental stimulation and physical exercise.
Dutch Shepherd Vs. German Shepherd: Grooming and Care
The Dutch Shepherd and German Shepherd have double coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking and feeling great.
They shed moderately year-round, and during shedding season, they require more frequent brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
For the Dutch Shepherd, weekly brushing is usually sufficient, while the German Shepherd may require brushing two to three times per week.
Regular bathing is unnecessary, as it can strip the natural oils from their coat and lead to skin irritation. However, they should be bathed when dirty or have a strong odor.
Both breeds require regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing to prevent infection and maintain overall health.
Living Arrangements: Ideal Homes for Dutch and German Shepherds
The Dutch Shepherd and German Shepherd are active breeds requiring plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
They need to be better suited for apartment living and require a home with a large yard or outdoor space where they can run and play.
While both breeds can adapt to different living arrangements, they thrive in homes with plenty of attention and exercise.
They are loyal and protective of their family and do their best when included in daily activities and given a job.
Dutch Shepherd Vs. German Shepherd: Suitability for Families
Dutch Shepherds and German Shepherds can make great family dogs, but their suitability for families depends on various factors such as their temperament, energy levels, and training.
Both breeds are highly intelligent and trainable, making them great with children when socialized and trained correctly.
However, due to their high energy levels, they may unintentionally knock over small children or play too roughly.
Therefore, it’s important to supervise interactions between young children and these breeds.
Although Dutch Shepherds and German Shepherds can coexist peacefully with other animals if socialized from a young age, their instincts to herd may make them prone to chasing and nipping at smaller pets such as cats or rabbits.
Final Words?
Both Dutch Shepherds and German Shepherds are intelligent breeds that need plenty of exercise, training, and attention; deciding which one is best for you depends on your lifestyle.
The Dutch Shepherd makes a good companion and working dog for active and dedicated owners.
If you’re looking for a dog with slightly smaller size, high drive, and independent personality—the Dutch Shepherd may be perfect!
On the other hand, if you prefer a larger dog with a strong work ethic and an even temperament, perhaps the German Shepherd would be right for you.
Whatever breed you choose, you must make sure it receives lots of exercise, socialization, and training to keep it happy and well-behaved.
Both breeds benefit from routine grooming and care to keep them looking and feeling their best. They also flourish in homes where they get lots of love and mental stimulation.
FAQs:
Q: Which breed is easier to train?
A: Both breeds are highly intelligent and trainable, but Dutch Shepherds may be slightly easier to train due to their high energy level and eagerness to please their owners.
Q: Which breed is better suited for families with children?
A: Both breeds can make great family dogs when socialized and trained correctly.
However, due to their high energy levels, they may unintentionally knock over small children or play too roughly. Therefore, it’s important to supervise interactions between young children and these breeds.
Q: Which breed requires more exercise?
A: Both breeds require plenty of exercises, but Dutch Shepherds may require slightly more due to their higher energy levels.