The dutch shepherd, or hollandse herdershond as it's called in its home country, resembles the old type of german shepherd dog in build. But unlike its german cousin, this breed is always brindle in colour! It comes in three coat lengths, just as the belgian shepherd. It may not come as a surprise that these three breeds are all related. The dutch shepherd has long been the least known of them, but is now gaining reputition and popularity around the world.
The dutch shepherd dog is mainly a worker, an active and sporty breed that needs both mental and physical exercise to thrive.
The shorthaired is the most common variety, while the others are rarer. Golden or brown brindle is the most common colour in the breed, but it may also be blue brindle, which is really closer to grey, sometimes with almost golden tints.
The breed should appear medium sized, powerfully built and lively. The head is wedge shaped, with the muzzle somewhat longer than the skull. The ears are rather small, set high and triangular in shape. The neck is rather long, powerful and dry. The chest is deep, the back short and straight. The tail is carried hanging or slightly up but not curled over the back.