Dutch Shepherd Forum

Dear all,
I'm exited about being on the forum and ready to learn from all the more experienced DS owners on here! We added our DS puppy Kiki to our family 2.5 weeks ago and are working hard to integrate her in our lives in a positive and productive manner.
Thanks,
Gijs

Welcome.

What drew you to Kiki?

We are a family of 9 in Utah. Mom, myself, 4 little boys, 1 girl a female caucasian and a pug. We have land, go hiking, trail riding, boating, and hang out in the country where we live. Our female is almost 11 and we want her to spend time with the new pup. We were looking at the GSD, and DS because we are active. Our oldest boys will be in their teens in the next few years and enjoy the outdoors. Our youngest is just turning 4. We were thinking of a dog that could keep up a little better than our caucasian. For anyone not familiar with the caucasian breed the are 120+ lbs. Any input as far as the DS being a suitable breed for us would be appreciated.

Hi @ladyjulilee,
Kiki was the calmest of the litter and we were looking for all the health and strength that comes with the DS, but a somewhat lower drive. We're not planning on doing any bite-work, but lots of running around, nose work (fun for the kids) and agility to keep her occupied.

My neighbor had 4 Caucasions he brought with him when he emigrated from Russia. On was a behemoth male. He did warn us that if we ever encountered the male outside the very well reinforced fence, to go in the house, call 911 and have the police shoot the dog. That really left an impression about the breed. But they are gorgeous dogs.

But that's pretty much the extent of my knowledge.

I forgot to give my DS input. For all Caucasians have that innate agression/protectiveness, my understanding is they are generally pretty calm overall. My Bramble has more 24/7 energy than the neighbors' dogs had. Even now that Bramble has matured and calmed, she can go from playing fetch/catch with me, to trampolining with my son, to chasing squirrels, digging for voles, playing with Casper until Casper is pooped, running with the neighbor's dog....and STILL have energy to spare. With Bramble that means her attention demands are pretty high. Not in terms where my neighbor had to walk his big dog 3 times a day rain sleet or snow, but in terms of always being on one of us seeking play.