Drentsche Patrijshond Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Drentsche Patrijshond?

The breed descended from the Spioenen (also known as Spanjoelen) who arrived in Holland via France in the 16th century. They were known as Partridge Dogs in the Netherlands. These dogs were preserved purebred in the eastern half of the Netherlands, particularly in the province of Drenthe, and were not mixed with foreign breeds.

The agricultural region of Drenthe was unique in that it granted the privilege to hunt even the common gentry. As a result, the population required a dog to assist them in their quest for various small wildlife. 

The Raad voor Beheer op Kynologisch Gebied in Nederland acknowledged the breed on May 15, 1943. Baroness Van Hardenbroek, Mr. Van Heek Jr., and Mr. Quartero all pushed hard for this. The Epagneul Français and the Small Münsterländer are related breeds. The Vereniging "De Drentsche Patrijshond" a Dutch kennel club, was established on June 5, 1948.

The Drent breed standards were developed on three "pillars" by the Dutch Drent breed club: hunting, pet traits, and watchdog. The Drent has had to do three jobs throughout its long and rich history.

Unlike many other hunting breeds, the Drentse Patrijshond was expected to hunt all game as well as serve as a watchdog, child playmate, and other duties. Some were even employed to draw the dog carts.

Not just was the breed supposed to assist in the preparation of meat, but it was also required to alert the family of any visits to the farm or estate, as well as to be a "pet extraordinaire."

This is why the Drent is such an excellent and popular hunting breed in the United States. They are not only clever enough to help hunt a wide range of animals, but they are also wonderful family members. The Drent is a multi-talented hunting dog.

Who are Drentsche Patrijshond dogs best for?

Originally bred as a hunting dog, this is an excellent breed for pet lovers, the sportsman who wishes to hunt calmly in a range of areas without exerting too much or partake in other dog sports such as dog sledding. Also, the dog patrols within gunshot range of the hunter and look for the game without getting very far away.

They appear to need to keep in contact with the hunter. When approaching the game, it maintains a rock-solid pointing posture and a reasonable distance. When the dog is pointing, it waits for the shooter to approach; if this takes a long time, it will return its attention to its owner. 

How much grooming does a Drentsche Patrijshond need?

It's no surprise, given their heavy coat, whenever this breed sheds, it will do it in a big way. Apart from their dense coat, they are low-maintenance when not shedding and just need grooming every few days.

Ear infections are common in Spaniel-type dogs, and the Dutch Partridge Dog is the same. It's critical to examine their ears frequently to make sure they're not red, stinky, or full of discharge. Cleaning should be done regularly. To prevent the risk of infection, ear passages must be dried after swimming or bathing. 

Do Drentsche Patrijshond bark much?

Drentse Patrijshond dogs, in the judgment of experienced Drentse Patrijshond dog experts, score 2.5 out of 5 on a scale of how much they bark.

Do Drentsche Patrijshond bite?

Patrijshond dogs are incredibly gentle when it comes to people and they are not prone to bite people. Early socialisation will easily prevent this from ever occurring.

What is the temperament & personality of a Drentsche Patrijshond?

The Patrijshond is a very human-oriented breed because it has always lived with people and hasn't been kept outside or in barns. These dogs will be extremely reliant on their families and will bond closely with them. If a dog is left alone for an extended period, it may develop separation anxiety and will need mental stimulation.

This breed must be thoroughly socialised from an early age for them to welcome newcomers without reluctance. They are well-known for their patience and kindness with small kids, and they do exceptionally well with children.

They can serve as protectors since they are attentive and defensive of their families, and while they are reluctant to attack an intruder, they will bark to alarm their master.

They do well in the company of other hounds, despite their habit of hunting alone. Given their reputation, they should not be left with other pets, since they might start chasing and hunting them instinctively. When they're out hunting, they're motivated and focused, but once they get home, they're content to unwind.

What is the weight & size of a Drentsche Patrijshond?

The male will be between 58cm - 63cm tall at the withers, while the female will be between 55 cm - 60 cm tall. When fully mature, they weigh between 21 kg - 30 kg.

How much training does a Drentsche Patrijshond need?

Drentsche Patrijshonds are devoted and clever dogs. Whereas these two characteristics usually indicate an easily trainable puppy, this may not be the case with these canines.

They learn orders, and cognitive games fast and are very susceptible to obedience training, but they need their trainers' conviction, investment of time, and gentle tenacity before the knowledge they gain is absorbed.

Drentsche Patrijshonds are soft and delicate dogs who do not respond well to harsh or forceful training or punishment of any type. To assist your dog to become the finest version of themselves, you'll need to follow a very loving, understanding, and persistent training schedule rich in mental stimulation.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Drentsche Patrijshond?

Because this purebred dog is so scarce, it hasn't been the subject of many publicised health studies, therefore there's little information on its general health.

They are seen to be generally healthy dogs, which are, nevertheless, known to suffer from a variety of medical issues, these are some of them:

• Hip Dysplasia - A condition that affects the hip joint. Dysfunction of the hip joints to fully form, culminating in improper weight-bearing and the onset of osteoarthritis later down the line.

• Elbow Dysplasia - A condition that affects the elbow joint. A collection of orthopedic problems that affect the dog's elbow. Affected dogs may take a long time to get up and are mostly lore on one or even both legs.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy - A condition in which the retina gradually deteriorates, a form of eye degeneration that can lead to blindness. There is no therapy or cure for this debilitating disease, and breeding dogs should be tested for it.

What is the lifespan of a Drentsche Patrijshond?

If given the proper care and diet this wonderful breed can live up to 14 happy active years.

How much should you feed a Drentsche Patrijshond?

Considering its medium size, your Drentsche Patrijshond will have a pretty voracious appetite and will need to be fed roughly 2 measured bowls of food per day. Owing to their high volume of engagement and desire for activity and fun, you would like to feed your dog a high-protein diet, as this is where the majority of their fuel will come from.

Foods that include a lot of carbohydrates, such as corn and wheat, are bad for your dog and should be prevented.

Two to three meals a day will suffice from the time they're 12 weeks old until they're about a year old.

If your dog is putting on weight beyond the breed's approved weight range, reduce the amount of food served at mealtimes or visit your veterinarian for additional advice.

What is the price of a Drentsche Patrijshond in Australia?

This breed can be purchased in Australia from a reputable breeder for anywhere up to $800.