Group 1 · Sheepdogs & cattle dogs
Dutch Shepherd Dog
The Dutch Shepherd Dog is a versatile, intelligent working dog with a brindle coat that can be short, long or rough. It is loyal, watchful and hard-working, and is happiest with someone who keeps it meaningfully busy every day.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Hollandse Herdershond - Korthaar Hollandse Herdershond - Ruwhaar Hollandse Herdershond - Langhaar by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 3 examinations:
- 1 DNA test
- 2 X-ray examinations
The breeding programme also recommends 2 further examinations.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (3)
-
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
X-ray Once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- X-ray (CT may be recommended, but is not mandatory)
-
Hip dysplasia (HD)
X-ray Once at least 1 year (laxity views: at least 6 months)
Official description
- Method
- X-ray: VD view and laxity view (Vezzoni or PennHIP)
-
Von Willebrand disease type 1 (VWF1)
DNA test Once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- VWF: c.7437G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
Recommended examinations (2)
-
Spongy degeneration with cerebellar ataxia 2 (SCDA2)
DNA test Once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- ATP1B2: c.130_131ins[LT796559.1:g.50_276
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Eye disorders
Eye examination Valid for 2 years at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- General eye examination
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Hollandse Herdershond - Korthaar Hollandse Herdershond - Ruwhaar Hollandse Herdershond - Langhaar, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 17/07/2026.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Elbow dysplasia (ED), Hip dysplasia (HD) and Von Willebrand disease type 1 (VWF1). The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Spongy degeneration with cerebellar ataxia 2 (SCDA2) and Eye disorders. A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Dutch Shepherd needs plenty of daily exercise and a job, such as tracking, obedience or dog sports. Grooming depends on the coat: short hair is easy, long hair needs regular brushing and rough hair is hand-stripped now and then.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- What are the results of both parent dogs for Elbow dysplasia (ED) and Hip dysplasia (HD)?
- Is the general eye examination of both parent dogs still valid? According to the breeding programme: Valid for 2 years.
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
The Dutch Shepherd is clever, watchful and hard-working, and wants a purpose. Without enough work and structure it can become restless. It suits someone who enjoys training with it every day.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
