Understanding Dutch Shepherd Colors and Patterns

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Posted Oct 12, 2024

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Young Shephard
Credit: pexels.com, Young Shephard

The Dutch Shepherd is a breed known for its distinctive coat colors and patterns. There are two main types of coats: the wolf sable and the blue sable.

The wolf sable coat is characterized by its dark brown to black color with a golden sheen, often with a black mask on the face. This coat type is the result of a specific genetic combination.

The blue sable coat, on the other hand, is a lighter blue-gray color with a black mask on the face. It's also the result of a specific genetic combination, but one that produces a different effect.

The Dutch Shepherd's coat color and pattern are determined by the interaction of multiple genes, making each dog's coat unique.

If this caught your attention, see: Boston Terrier with White Face

Breed Origin

The Dutch Shepherd breed has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s in the Netherlands. It originated from the Netherlands, where it began to diverge from its cousins, the German and Belgian Shepherds.

Credit: youtube.com, Dutch Shepherd Dog Breed Profile

In the 1800s, the Dutch Shepherd was used as a multi-purpose farm dog for herding and livestock control. This included keeping chickens out of gardens.

The breed's adaptable skills made it an ideal candidate for military and guard dog roles. The Dutch Shepherd nearly became extinct during World War II, but enthusiasts reestablished breeding programs after the war.

The breed standard for the Dutch Shepherd was first recognized in 1898, and it has changed very little since then. In fact, the breed's first appearance in the US was also in 1898.

Here's a quick rundown of the Dutch Shepherd's size and weight:

The Dutch Shepherd's lifespan is around 11-15 years, making it a long-term companion for active families and singles.

Dutch Shepherd Colors

Dutch Shepherds can come in a range of brindle colors, with gold and silver being the most common.

The gold brindle can appear in various shades, from a light sandy color to a deep red.

A unique perspective: Yorkshire Terrier Blue and Gold

Credit: youtube.com, Dutch Shepherd Dog Breed Information

Silver brindle can appear in a range of shades as well, from light to dark.

Blue Dutch Shepherds are not recognized by breed standards, but they are becoming more popular.

Dutch Shepherds can only have brindle coats, which was decided when the breed standard was created in 1898.

Yellow is the only other color that Dutch Shepherds can come in, but it's not an official color.

For your interest: Labrador Chocolate Color

Dutch Shepherd Colors

Dutch shepherds come in a variety of colors, but their high energy level and exercise needs are the same regardless of their coat color.

Their high intelligence and trainability make them a popular choice for many dog owners, but their tendency to bark can be a challenge for some.

The Dutch shepherd's temperament is one of its most notable characteristics, with a high affection level and friendliness that makes them a great addition to many families.

Here are some common Dutch shepherd colors:

Their high exercise needs and playfulness make them a great match for active families, but their high amount of shedding can be a challenge for some owners.

Color

Credit: youtube.com, Blue the Dog at Five Months Old. Malinois-Dutch Shepherd Cross. Blue Nemesis Dog Diaries #002.

Dutch Shepherds come in a variety of brindle colors, including gold and silver, which can appear in different shades.

Gold brindle colors can range from a light sandy color to a deep red.

Silver brindle colors can appear more or less dark.

The breed standard for Dutch Shepherds requires brindle coats, which were chosen to differentiate them from other similar dogs.

Brindle is the only official color for Dutch Shepherds, although a yellow coat is also possible but not officially recognized.

Dutch Shepherds that are not brindle (or yellow) are likely to be a mixed breed or misidentified.

Explore further: Thai Ridgeback Colors

Bertha Hauck

Senior Writer

Bertha Hauck is a writer with a passion for sharing knowledge about canine companions. With a focus on Dutch Shepherds and other breeds originating in the Netherlands, Bertha's articles provide in-depth information for dog enthusiasts. Her expertise in herding dogs and FCI breeds has earned her a reputation as a trusted authority in the field.