Dutch Shepherd Forum

So, with Dalmatians, when the human needs a jacket so do the dog. But what about Dutchies? I know if they live in cold climates, they acclimate, but what about dogs that live in warm climates with occasional cold snaps? When or show Bramble have a jacket for warmth? Or just a rain jacket ( she doesn't mind rain, but no one wants to eat in a restaurant next to wet dog.)

And why heavy duty crates? If the dog is crate trained, what is the difference?

Oh, and since Dutch and Mal can be in the same litter, how can the breeds have different breed "personalities" and be different "roles"?

Figured I might as well ask my dumb questions since there isn't a lot of discussion right now.

Dutch Shepherds have an undercoat so they're probably okay for cold.

Only answer I have.

Good to know. We were thinking of taking her with us to Busch Gardens but were afraid she'd be cold.

Just go to the one in Tampa

I don't know, it was colder at Disneyworld when we went before Thanksgiving than it was here

I wonder what the dogs use to do in the hills of France and Belgium herding sheep ?

I would think they would be acclimated, kind of like sled dogs....unlike poor dogs who stay in a nice warm house until the owners decide to stay outside for hours in the cold rain or snow looking at lights.

My cousin had two big labs both short hair. They would run around in the snow and dive into blue pools of water collecting in the snow about 32.5F to cool off. He said they were used to it and they had a nice layer of fat to go with it. Back then my GS/Lab would dive under the blanket at 50 shivering. Calories I guess.

As to the crate, I just got a Gunner for En for both home and field. It's a dream to use. Quick, easy, secure. It keeps her safe and warm in the bed of the truck. Should keep her cooler in the summer as well.

Is the extra strength to contain her or protect her in the truck?

Little bit of both, but mostly transport.

*Removed post*

Riddick is a long haired dutchie. He doesn't mind the cold. I have a short haired female dutchie and short haired female mal, both don't like the cold. I prefer the longer haired dutchies but there aren't many of them.

Oh wow, I 'd forgotten Riddick's "dog" was brindle (and too cute). Great name.