Longhaired dutch shepherd
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The longhaired Dutch shepherd is similar to the shorthaired version used in many working dog facilities worldwide including police departments, military installations and of course herding farms in certain areas of the world. The obvious difference is characterized by a longer coat. These dogs originated in the Netherlands and although rare worldwide have remained a popular breed in the Netherlands as herding and working dogs.
The longhaired variety of Dutch Shepherd Dog is less common than the smooth coated variety, although it has made a few more steps toward becoming popularized in other countries such as Switzerland, Finland, and Sweden, as well as an interest in the United States after classification by the United Kennel Club or the UKC.
The first longhaired Dutch shepherd to reach champion status in the United States is UKC Ch Kayla van Oscarli CGC (pictured at right) of Van De Stem Longhaired Dutch Shepherds.
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[edit] Characteristics
The longhaired Dutch shepherd dog characteristics include longer hair than the smooth variation, but not nearly as long as a collie's hair. The proportions are not square in that the longhaired dutch shepherd is longer than its height with a ratio of about 10 to 9.
The height for males is between 22 and 25 inches ( 57 to 62 centimeters)
The height for females is between 21 and 24 inches ( 55 to 60 centimeters)
Weight of the dogs range from 60–70 pounds
There are two accepted colors: Gold Brindle and Silver Brindle which are available in both the smooth and longhaired variety.
[edit] Health and Activity
Longhaired Dutch shepherds are very adaptable dogs that are well suited for many different homes including those with small children and with limited space as long as plenty of exercize is available.
As a working, herding breed, this breed is moderately active and does require enough exercize to prevent restlessness and poor health.
With proper diet and exercize, this breed can easily live up to 12 or 14 years old.
[edit] Care
The longhaired version does require to be groomed about once a week, or more frequently depending on work and environment. Avoid over bathing this breed to prevent dryness in the coat which may cause the dog to chew or scratch. The longhaired variety also is well suited for cooler climates as long as it has shelter. Avoid freezing temperatures for long periods of time even with the long coated breed.
