A native of the Netherlands, the Drentsche Patrijshond is a purebred canine. These puppies have some of the best attributes of any dog breed, including being smart, loyal, and emotionally attuned. Besides Drentsche Patrijshond, you may know this breed as the Dutch Partridge Dog, Drent, or perhaps just Drent.
These fantastic canines make wonderful companions. They can get along with city inhabitants in apartments, but larger homes with a yard are more ideal for them so they can run off some steam. These dogs are suitable for any type of family, from couples living alone to big clans. The Drentsche Patrijschond could be the perfect dog for you if you're looking for a devoted friend who is eager to please. For more information about the Drentsche Patrijshond, including a look at some examples of this breed's physical traits, please continue reading!
Highlights
- There is a wide variety of color combinations seen on Drentsche Patrijshond jackets. Primary colors include the tricolor, orange and white, and brown and white. As such, they are not recommended for anyone with allergies.
- These canines are full of life and enthusiasm for play, particularly when presented with a ball or frisbee. They can move quickly and deftly.
- Drentsche Patrijshonds are very trainable because they are smart and eager to please their owners. They treat everyone, even total strangers, with kindness.
- The Drentsche Patrijshond is an extremely active breed. Walk your dog for at least 30 minutes to an hour every day, with some vigorous playtime and shorter walks sprinkled in for good measure.
- Acclimating them to other animals early on is recommended. However, the Drentsche Patrijschond have a high prey drive and aren't very fond of tiny pets like hamsters and rodents.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighborhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
40 to 60 pounds
Lifespan
11 to 14 years old
Height
21 to 25 inches
History
The Drentse Patrijshond is a breed with an unproven but likely ancient history, dating back hundreds of years at the very least. It wasn't until the 16th century that the Drentse Patrijshond began to emerge in official records. There was a rise in the importation of various spaniel-type dogs into Holland from France, Italy, and Spain about this time. Numerous canines that looked quite similar to modern-day Drentse Patrijshonds began appearing in 17th-century Dutch artwork.
The moniker "Partridge dog" comes from the bird's popularity as a target for hunters in Holland. In most of Europe, hunting was reserved for the wealthy, but in the northern Dutch province of Drenthe, hunters came from all walks of life and included both commoners and aristocrats.
The Dutch Partridge Dog was more often utilized as a lone hunter than as part of a pack, making adaptability a high priority. Dutch owners put them to use pulling carts and slaying pests, in addition to helping in hunting. Even though they were working dogs, these pets were raised alongside the human members of the household.
The Drentse Patrijshond was formally recognized by the Dutch Kennel Club in 1943. During WWII, when Dutch Nationals were eager to distinguish themselves from the Germans and cherish all things "Holland," this was a potent symbol. Among Dutch hunters, they continue to be a top choice because of their skill as gun dogs. Their friendly disposition also means they are frequently kept as companion animals rather than working animals, and while they are gaining popularity in continental Europe, they are still rather uncommon elsewhere.
The Drentse Patrijshond is a useful hunting companion because of its ability to sniff out game birds hiding in tall grass and draw them out for the hunter. Once the hunter fires, they will seek for the game and then point out where it is till the hunter comes. They are just as capable of retrieving game from land as they are from the ocean. These hunting companions take their time and stay close to their master during the entire hunt.
Personality & Temperament
Due to the fact that the Drentse Patrijshond has never been bred to be kept outside or in outbuildings, these dogs are extremely sociable and eager to please their human companions. These dogs will have a high degree of dependency on their owners and will develop deep, lifelong attachments to them. Due to their intense need for human interaction, dogs can develop separation anxiety if they are abandoned for long periods of time.
If the Drentse Patrijshond is properly socialized from an early age, it will be comfortable around strangers. Effectively known for their ability to work well with young children, they are patient and tolerant of those in need. They make good watchdogs since they are vigilant and protective of their families, yet they are not likely to fight an intruder unless provoked.
Despite their solitary hunting style, they get along great with other dogs. Despite their seeming gentle nature, they nonetheless pose a danger to smaller creatures because it is in their nature to hunt them. They are focused and diligent while hunting, but once they get home, they are content to kick back in front of the fire and rest.
Care
Drentsche Patrijshonds that are well-cared for like couch-hopping and giving the impression that they are completely blameless. The majority of people with dog allergies can safely pet him. He will suffer because of his lack of exercise. While he prefers to be with a hunter, even long walks in the park can satisfy him. It's best to socialize them with other pets so they won't mistake them for prey and attack.
Be mindful of what they eat and how they feel. Use Cooling Vests for Dogs and keep them out of hot areas during the summer. If they start acting strangely, consult a veteran for advice. You can prevent any signs of violence by training and communicating with them softly.
Health
This breed is so uncommon that few health studies have been made public, so information on its general health is limited. In general, they are considered a healthy breed of dog that may expect to live into its early teens. Although hard data on their health is lacking, anecdotal evidence suggests they have a number of problems. That includes, but is not limited to:
Hip Dysplasia
Incorrect weight-bearing on the hips, leading to osteoarthritis and other hip problems later in life due to improper hip growth. Affected dogs may benefit from dietary and behavioral changes, medicine, and even orthopedic surgery.
Elbow Dysplasia
Dogs can suffer from a number of different elbow-related orthopedic disorders. Affected dogs may take longer to get up and may be lame in one or both front legs.
Entropion & Ectropion
Incorrect positioning of the eyelids can cause inward curling (entropion) or outward curling (extropion) (ectropion). Both ectropion and entropion can lead to dry eye and corneal ulceration due to incorrect rubbing and blinking. Certain conditions may call for surgical intervention.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
A type of eye degeneration that can cause permanent blindness. Breeding dogs should be checked for this fatal disease as there is currently no therapy or cure.
Hereditary Stomatocytosis
An very rare disorder characterized by hemolysis due to the loss of red blood cells and release of salt ions.
Otitis Externa
Due to their anatomical form, Spaniel-type dogs frequently suffer from ear infections. A trip to the vet is in order when Fido develops an ear infection; there, a proper diagnosis may be made and treatment can begin. A dog's ears must be cleaned regularly to prevent infections.
Recommended Health Test
- Opthamologist Evaluation
- Renal Disease DNA Test
- PRA Optigen DNA Test
- Hips & Elbows
Nutrition
The Drent needs a diet with adequate protein because he is an active dog. Your Drent's protein needs will increase significantly if it regularly engages in canine sports or hunting. Most dogs need about 25% protein to maintain their health, while active dogs, working dogs, and hunting dogs need at least 30%-35% protein to thrive.
If this hunting breed is fed too much and doesn't get enough activity, it will grow overweight like any other breed. You need to weigh your dog and feed it based on its weight. To keep your dog the same size, offer him or her the appropriate amount of food for his or her current weight. Adjust this up or down accordingly to help your dog gain or lose weight.
Keep in mind that the calorie content of training and feeding treats should be factored into the total amount of treats given to your Drentse.
Keep a bowl of clean, fresh water for your dog nearby at all times.
Grooming
Drents are known to shed twice a year due to their single-layer, half-long coat. Comb all the dead hair, and then use a pin brush to make sure your dog is completely at ease.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that the Drent is hypoallergenic, and its dander production is high, particularly during shedding seasons. Other than a weekly brushing, the Drent does not require a lot of attention.
At a minimum, you should brush its teeth three times weekly, and you should start doing so when it's still a puppy. Nails should be trimmed as well. Every two months, you'll want to do this. Most dogs' nails will require less maintenance if you walk them on rough surfaces like concrete.
Exercise
This breed requires regular exercise and is not suited to a sedentary lifestyle. An hour to 90 minutes of exercise per day is required. Taking the dog on walks and hikes is great, but it would also benefit from mental and physical stimulation through an activity like canine sport or agility.
Training
In other words, the hunting breed can be trained to do what it's supposed to do since it's smart. As a pet, it is anxious to please its owners and will quickly pick up on these new commands and do them for you.
Unfortunately, the breed has a tendency to be headstrong and easily bored. This means that it responds well to shorter training sessions, and that you'll see the best results if you can make training into a quick game. Also effective are goodies, however if you decide to use treats as part of your training, remember to avoid those that are too rich in fat or calories when figuring out how much food to give your dog on a regular basis.
This breed is generally well-behaved and docile, although it can still benefit from early socialization. Introducing a dog to people is just the beginning of the socialization process. That the dog can adapt to novel surroundings in a way that is both safe and acceptable. Both you and your dog will experience less stress and worry, and your dog's life will be richer and more satisfying as a result.
Children and Other Pets
The Drentsche Patrijshond, despite its medium size, is great with kids of all ages. But make sure older kids know how to play well with younger ones. However, the Drentsche Patrijshond may be a wonderful and energetic companion for children who learn early on how to properly approach and play with a dog.
Early socialization will go a long way toward ensuring that your Drentsche Patrijshond gets along well with other pets. Getting them used to different animals as soon as possible is ideal. However, the Drentsche Patrijschond, who have a high prey drive, aren't particularly fond of small pets like hamsters or rodents.
Training, socialization, and even chance can all play a role, as many Drentsche Patrijshond get along quite fine with other dogs and cats.
Puppies
Before introducing a Drentsche Patrijshond puppy into your home, you should know that these dogs have a high level of energy and require daily, rigorous exercise. Starting the day you bring your dog home, you should plan to devote at least one hour every day to exercise. These dogs will require some form of exercise starting at a young age, since their boundless energy will need to be channeled.
You should also know that these dogs are easily startled and will bark at any new noises or people passing by your home. Their constant barking is a result of their desire to keep your home safe from intruders. It follows that people who live in noisy environments, such as apartments, should avoid getting one of these dogs. There is a chance you may reduce their barking through training, but it's unlikely you could eradicate it entirely.
Puppies of the Drentsche Patrijshond breed aren't exactly common in the United States, so finding one can be challenging. Puppy prices, if purchased directly from a breeder, are typically between $500 and $700.
Breeds Similar to Drentsche Patrijshond
- Dutch Sheepdog
- Deutscher Wachtelhund
- Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
- Small Munsterlander
- Stabyhoun
- Boykin Spaniel