Dutch shepherd health

The Dutch Shepherd is generally considered a healthy, robust breed with strong working instincts and excellent vitality. However, like all breeds, they can be predisposed to certain health conditions. Responsible breeding practices, routine veterinary care, and an active, engaged lifestyle all play critical roles in maintaining a Dutch Shepherd’s long-term health and well-being.

Brindle Dutch Shepherd running on a forest path

common health concerns

While most Dutch Shepherds enjoy long, active lives, potential owners should be aware of a few health issues that may occur within the breed:

  • Hip Dysplasia: A common orthopedic condition where the hip joint doesn't fit together perfectly, potentially leading to arthritis or reduced mobility.

  • Elbow Dysplasia: Developmental abnormalities in the elbow joint that can cause lameness or discomfort.

  • Eye Disease: Immune-mediated eye conditions, particularly Pannus (chronic superficial keratitis), can occur. Early diagnosis and management by a veterinary ophthalmologist are important to maintain vision.

  • Spinal Issues: Dutch Shepherds can be prone to Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebrae (LTV), a congenital malformation of the spine, and Spondylosis, a degenerative condition that can cause stiffness or pain. Early detection through spinal imaging (such as X-rays) is recommended for breeding dogs.

  • Allergies (Atopy): Some Dutch Shepherds may develop environmental or food-related allergies that require management.

  • Sensitivity to Anesthesia: Dutch Shepherds may be more sensitive to certain anesthetic drugs, requiring careful veterinary management.

Health Testing

At Schäfers Weg Shepherds, we believe that a strong foundation in health is essential for producing capable, well-rounded Dutch Shepherds.

All of our breeding dogs are fully health tested, including:

  • OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) for hips, elbows, spine, eyes, cardiac, patellas and more

  • PennHIP for evaluation of laxity in hips that can lead to degenerative changes

  • Genetic Testing for inherited conditions (such as Spongy Degeneration with Cerebellar Ataxia (SDCA) types 1 & 2 and Degenerative Myelopathy (DM))

Our commitment to thorough health screening helps ensure that our puppies have the best possible start in life.

Want a more in depth look at health tests in the Dutch Shepherd?

Health testing in action

  • X-ray image of a dog's pelvic region

    OFA HIps

    Example of OFA Excellent Hips
    from one of our breeding dogs.

  • X-ray image of a dog's left elbow with identification details on the top left corner.

    OFA Elbows

    Example of OFA Normal Elbows
    from one of our breeding dogs.

  • OFA Spine

    Example of OFA Normal Spine
    from one of our breeding dogs.

  • X-ray image of a right shoulder.

    OFA Shoulders

    Example of OFA Normal Shoulders
    from one of our breeding dogs.

CHIC Certification

The Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) is a centralized health database jointly sponsored by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and breed parent clubs. A CHIC number is issued to a dog that has completed all the health testing recommended by its national breed club, regardless of whether the results are normal or abnormal. This program encourages breeders to health test openly and responsibly, allowing potential puppy buyers to verify a dog's health clearances.

For the Dutch Shepherd, the required health screenings for CHIC certification are:

  • Hip Dysplasia evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)

  • Elbow Dysplasia evaluation (OFA)

  • Eye Examination by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist (CAER exam, submitted to OFA)

At Schäfers Weg Shepherds, we are proud to go far above the minimum health testing requirements for all of our breeding dogs and submit results to the OFA for public verification.

OFA Canine Health Information Center certification for a Dutch Shepherd named Keres Von Der Schafers Weg, detailing registration, breed, and test results.

Dogs with CHIC Certification will have the CHIC icon next to their name on the OFA online database.

maintaining
health in the
dutch shepherd

With proper care, Dutch Shepherds typically live between 11 to 14 years, remaining active and vital well into their senior years.

As an owner, you can help your Dutch Shepherd thrive by:

  • Scheduling regular veterinary check-ups

  • Maintaining an ideal body condition through proper nutrition and exercise

  • Keeping up with vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care

  • Providing daily physical and mental stimulation

A healthy Dutch Shepherd is a happy Dutch Shepherd — ready to work, play, and share life's adventures with you.

Brindle Dutch Shepherd standing on a rock in a forest, surrounded by trees and greenery.