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Drentsche patrijshond

The Drentsche Patrijshond, or Drent partridge dog, comes from the Drenthe province of the Netherlands, where it has been kept since the sixteenth century as an all-round farm and hunting dog — pointing and retrieving game, killing vermin, and guarding the farm.

It stands 55 to 63 centimetres, weighs 20 to 25 kilograms and lives twelve to fourteen years, with a medium-length white coat marked in brown or orange. Unlike many continental gundogs it was always a household dog as well as a working one, and its temperament reflects that: affectionate with family, good with children, and softer and more sensitive than most versatile hunting breeds.

Origin
Drenthe province, Netherlands; since the 16th century
Size
55–63 cm; 20–25 kg
Lifespan
12–14 years
Coat
Medium-length white with brown or orange markings
Temperament
Affectionate and family-oriented as well as a working gundog
Health
Hereditary stomatocytosis, hip dysplasia, PRA

2 drentsche patrijshond photos, newest first

  • Domino, a drentsche patrijshond

    Domino

    Domino was promoted to astronomer discovering that the moon is a cheese wheel; unfortunately, a tiny red carpet refuses to lie flat.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

  • Domino, a drentsche patrijshond

    Domino

    The face Domino makes when the walk ends.

    MerryBadger · 2 weeks ago

Living with a drentsche patrijshond

They are sensitive dogs and training must be fair and encouraging. Harsh handling produces a dog that shuts down, and the breed is known for it.

Ask about hereditary stomatocytosis, a red blood cell disorder specific to the breed, and for hip scores and eye testing.

They were bred to live with the family and they mean it — a Drent kennelled or left alone all day is an unhappy one.

They need genuine exercise: an hour or more, and preferably work that uses the nose.

The coat needs brushing twice a week and the feathered ears need checking. Otherwise low maintenance.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.

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