Thinking About Getting a Dutchie

[gwyn-vh]

Hello everyone, I am very excited to now be a part of this forum!

I have been doing research for a while now and, once I have moved and settled, I would like to get a dog. While I can't say I was responsible for medical bills/training/etc with the dogs I have lived with in the past (since I was younger) I feel ready to start that soon. I have had some experience with dachshunds, springer spaniel, boxers, poodles and mixes of the breed- which are of course very different from a dutch shepherd My favourite experiences I have had with dogs are with german shepherds.

I currently help take care of my significant others' dogs who are almost seniors now- a husky/labrador and cairn terrier mix. Training them has been lots of fun and I find myself interested in dogs who need a mental challenge, and lots of it!

Anyways, I have been extremely interested in the intelligence of the Dutch Shepherd and many other qualities they tend to have. I have been seriously considering a DS for some time now, but wasn't sure if a German Shepherd would be a better choice. I have a faulty knee I am in the process of re-strengthening after 3 dislocations and a torn ligament and need foot surgery which will be completed before getting a dog. I would like to see some comparisons in strength, habits, affection level, health issues, and needs between DS and GSD.

I would be living in a flat at the time, and would have time to take it out frequently for walks and training time. I am unsure if I would get involved in sports straight away (aside from obedience), but tracking, agility, and flyball have caught my interest. I couldn't find any dutch shepherd rescues in the UK area unfortunately, but have found a very good German Shepherd rescue. I am considering reaching out to working dogs UK to see if they can help for picking up either from a breeder. For now however, I would love anyone's input for which breed could work best for me. Tell me about your experiences, mistakes, tips, anything!

[Dutchringgirl]

How much time per day can you devote to the dog? exercise? will he be home alone? how long? who will be training?

A flat, is that like an apt? they dont do well in that setting, they need alot, and I mean alot of excersise.

Sorry this is short, I am short on time and I spotted your post.

[gwyn-vh]

This is all hypothetical since I have not moved yet, so I do not have specific information. For right now I enjoy a Dutch Shepherd as a possibility in the future, that is in 2+ years time.

And yes, a flat is an apartment. I have read topics on here with people saying that they have done fine with having Dutchies in apartments as long as they get out enough. Typically with a university schedule my dog would most likely be alone between 2-4 hours in intervals since classes would be at different times of the day and it's possible to get two back to back, and even only one class a day which would mean I could dedicate lots of time to giving attention to the dog. Most apartments in the UK are dog friendly so finding one that is okay with dogs isn't an issue but I would make sure to pick a place with the best access to locations for exercising my dog. I could give them walks throughout the day and this could especially offer me time for training but I wouldn't get onto a waiting list for a pup until I have settled in someplace and know my situation.

One of my biggest concerns while considering a dog like this breed is how to work around my faulty knee. I can't run long distances for leisure because it makes it worse but that doesn't mean I'm not willing to figure out other options! I've been considering walks, sports, bicycling and the like.

[cordeliandemon]

i dont think you should get a DS, a rescue german shepherd could possibly work as they are much cuddlier, easier and chill than a DS.
you wont find pet-quality dutch shepherds in the uk, theyre all working dogs and theres no guarantee theyll even like being touched, mines still learning after a year.
2-4 hours alone in a flat and the ceiling will be on the floor (mine likes to eat doors and walls when unsupervised, not landlord friendly) not to mention i dont think it would be wise to be near one of these dogs with a recovering leg. mine has no breaks and hits you like a truck, ive even been knocked unconscious via a demon headbutt and had nausea/heavy concussion for 3 months, and thats when hes trying to be friendly.
its genuinely hard to imagine how high energy- borderline manic these brutes are, even when you CAN get a handle on them its like being a tiger keeper at the zoo, theyre beautiful amazing beasts you love to have in your life but every once ina while someone gets eaten during feeding time...

i really think a GS is your best bet for a stress free and positive dog owning experience in the situation youve described (and there are a great number of other breeds,mixes and lovable mutts you could rescue that would fit it too! ) good luck and take as much time as possible to choose your future friend

[gwyn-vh]

Ok, thank you for your input! I find myself very intrigued by Dutch Shepherds but I've seen that there are really only KNPV lines and such in the UK. I really admire breeds that are eager to work and don't tire easily- especially mentally.

I have found a lovely GS rescue without obnoxiously strict entry requirements. I also have an anxiety disorder, and it was recommended to me that I get a working line dog because I need to get out there, interact with people and keep myself busy in a social way. Somebody recommended Czech line GSDs to me but I think a rescue may be best for the situation. I think regardless of whether or not I get a DS in the near future I will stick around to learn more about this amazing breed.

[Raven]

Sorry for the brevity of this post; short on time. I do want to comment on getting a dog to help combat/aid in assistance to various types of anxiety------------especially in unskilled/relatively unskilled hands.

Dogs-----------especially the DS---------------pick up on your signals (stress, fear, etc.). Bringing in a new dog of any breed, you need to show them how to interpret the world around them; it's part of the training. So bringing in a dog on an unaided/unassisted recommendation to have a dog help with anxiety always concerns me. I know its done, but without assistance for you and the dog to begin the journey....? The dog is looking to you for how to behave, what to react to, etc.

I'm not boo-kooing. I would just like for people in such situations to have a knowledgeable guided hand. Your anxiety shouldn't stress the dog, or create unwanted behaviors based on your cues (which you'll relay unknowingly). Just take care when selecting a dog when you'd like it to be back-seat comfort provider.

While I don't have anxiety, I don't like being around people, but being around them usually raises my anxiety. While non-working breeds I've had USUALLY let it slide...........working lines.............not so much. So, unless I'm calm and good to go for REAL, they won't be. Dogs, especially the DS, are the devils who read your soul when the world can't---or when the world thinks it has but is mistaken.

I hope some of this made sense and helps define your search.

Welcome to the forum! And thank you SO much for your honesty and open-mind. Until later....

[Raven]

Forgot to add:

College is more demanding than high school. Even if a student ends up in a stable living situation, a working line needs LOTS of physical and mental stimulation. So consider this not only as a responsible dog owner, but a responsible college student who owns a dog that needs training, and lots of physical and mental stimulation during the process.

You can work around a faulty knee in a regular average-Joe life with commitment and time and plenty of patience, but you'll be busy student. Food for thought.

[Dutchringgirl]

I would have to agree that at this point in your life, a DS is not a good fit, college, flat, not really a good match. I know many have said that it works but do you get the whole story? and over a longer period of time? I have two and even my "quieter" girl would not do well in that environment. I would also not get a GSD either, even though they are less needy, they still need alot and they are big.

If you have anxiety, then that will set them off as well. mine get very upset when I am upset.

Maybe concentrate on your studies now.

[gwyn-vh]

I really appreciate everyone's responses, it helps me look into my options more. However, please don't assume what type of anxiety I am experiencing. It is very specific and, for it's type, a dog has been highly recommended to help me. I don't mind saying what it is via email or message however, I do not feel comfortable at all explaining it here in detail.

Classes will always be a priority to me, and this is why the situation itself is hypothetical. I couldn't stress more that I will not actually look at specific dogs to adopt or put myself on a waiting list until I know I am in a situation where it could be handled. Maybe I won't get a Dutch Shepherd when I first move, but I will certainly be getting a dog once I'm in a situation where I can. Since every dog is different, one could do well in an apartment while yours may not. Having a big house with a big yard does not equal a perfect home for any dog, I have seen people make this mistake.

[Raven]

However, please don't assume what type of anxiety I am experiencing.

Don't believe I did.

[gwyn-vh]

You gave the example of you not being anxious around people and whatnot, I may have misunderstood? My anxiety is not like that.

[Raven]

While I don't have anxiety, I don't like being around people, but being around them usually raises my anxiety.

I am anxious around people. People spike my blood pressure. I do not have clinical anxiety.

It was to illustrate a point, draw a parallel, which I guess it did not.

[gwyn-vh]

Oh okay, my apologies! To better explain myself without tmi it's the lack of social interaction that sets my anxiety off. It was recommended that a dog could help me and so it was something for me to consider after already wanting another dog. I'm not looking for a dog because of my anxiety, that's just a consideration. I really don't want to come off as angry so I'm sorry if I am- I'm also trying not to ramble haha. I really appreciate your input!

[Dutchringgirl]

I really appreciate everyone's responses, it helps me look into my options more. However, please don't assume what type of anxiety I am experiencing. It is very specific and, for it's type, a dog has been highly recommended to help me. I don't mind saying what it is via email or message however, I do not feel comfortable at all explaining it here in detail.

That is understood, but if you are going to bring into public that you have anxiety, then we will address that. This type of dog does not do well with that. Now, no, I do not know exactly what you experience but, these dogs are super super sensitive to your emotions and they will get very upset as well.

Classes will always be a priority to me, and this is why the situation itself is hypothetical. I couldn't stress more that I will not actually look at specific dogs to adopt or put myself on a waiting list until I know I am in a situation where it could be handled. Maybe I won't get a Dutch Shepherd when I first move, but I will certainly be getting a dog once I'm in a situation where I can. Since every dog is different, one could do well in an apartment while yours may not.

no , not true, if you hear of a DS that is doing well in an apt, then it is not a ds, or has little ds in there. Even my older super stable DS would not do well in an apt.

Having a big house with a big yard does not equal a perfect home for any dog, I have seen people make this mistake.

no, one does not need a big home but a nice size yard for them to run around would be very important to this breed.

[Dutchringgirl]

Oh okay, my apologies! To better explain myself without tmi it's the lack of social interaction that sets my anxiety off. It was recommended that a dog could help me and so it was something for me to consider after already wanting another dog. I'm not looking for a dog because of my anxiety, that's just a consideration. I really don't want to come off as angry so I'm sorry if I am- I'm also trying not to ramble haha. I really appreciate your input!

understood and thank you. This type of breed would not suit you yet in your phase of life. It would be good to get another type and get some good handling under your belt.

[gwyn-vh]

Okay, thank you very much Dutchringgirl For me, a Dutch is a dog I would want at some point in my life and that of course can be in many years to come. However I would like to stick around to continue learning more about this breed.

[cordeliandemon]

its nice that you have an interest in the breed whether or not you will ever get one (i for one adore dalmations and jack russels and have done extensive research on them regardless of the fact i may never have either) just do try not to put them on a pedestal or sensationalize them when you do so

im not sure if its been addressed already, but how long will you be in the uk?
that would be very important when considering if you should even get a dog at all while studying, its very easy to get homesick and extremely expensive/difficult to arrange a dog moving to the U.S (students not usually doing great on the money front, this could end up be a scary issue).
i can remember a semi recent poster studying who got a ds and ended up abandoning it as they didnt want to pay the fees.

id also, before breeds come into play, research the dog laws for whatever country or city in the uk you may reside. the laws can be very very different to the U.S, and if you havent been the person financially supporting a dog before also consider the cost of living in the uk is extremely high even without any animals who need insurance/food/medical bills.

if you do end up getting a dog there, consider going to dogs trust uk or the rspca. theyre usually inundated with dogs

[gwyn-vh]

Oh believe me, I wouldn't get homesick- I don't consider where I live right now my 'home', I don't have a lot of emotional attachment to it. The career I want to go into would require for me to remain in the UK after education, which is the only reason I figured owning a dog would be okay. If that doesn't work out I'm moving to Germany where my family is.

That is a very good point, I'll make sure to continue reading on the dog laws! I appreciate your input a bunch, thank you. And yes, I've been looking into rspca, but I'll make sure to give trust uk a look.

[Dutchringgirl]

what is it about the breed that draws you to it? This is not a usual pet. it is really for police work and heavy work and heavy sport. Yes, there are many who have them as pets but having one in your house is still different than really any other dog, even the other working breeds. I did heavy training for years in sport with mine, and there is no way in hell I would want one if I did not have the training I did. Dont get me wrong, I love mine to death, even Sadie.................The others know what I mean LOL

This is not your ordinary dog.

[Raven]

The DS is one of those breeds you don't "learn" on. They're too high-drive and aggressive.

Also....

THEY. ARE. NEEDY.

Require A LOT of time. Every day. They are not couch potatoes. And I'm not even talking about all the time wrapped up every day in the very minimal of basic training. I'm talking the advanced training they need and afterward as well. And without solid handling skills....

And then in regard to training, while you need to be consistent and fair with any dog, ask yourself how consistent can you be in training when you have studies, or later when you get your first job. Especially with the DS, you can't let things slide; they'll run the show.

They just require a lot from their owners--for a lifetime--so your life has to be able to accommodate all that that entails. A lot of work...and HARD work. It never ends, either.


A friend told a K-9 state trooper I had a DS: "As a PET???" he exclaimed. "If you don't know what you're doing, you got a killer on your hands."

In the end, just don't romanticize the breed.

They're beasts!