The Drente Partridgehound is an ancient breed originating in the Low Countries, developed as a hunting dog for partridge and other birds. Its distinguishing characteristics include a slightly wedge-shaped head and the presence of bangs on the limbs, especially on the tail.
General details
The breed is characterized by its medium size and powerful appearance. They can weigh between 22 and 33 kilograms and measure between 53 and 63.5 centimeters in height. The life expectancy of this breed ranges between 11 and 14 years. It belongs to Group 7 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which includes Continental, British, Irish and Setters.
Breed history in brief
The Perdiguero de Drente is an ancient breed that originated in the province of Drente (Netherlands) where it was developed for hunting partridge and other birds. The breed originated during the 16th century from dogs from Spain, called Spioenen (or Spanjoelen) that came to the Netherlands via France. They are also closely related to the French Spaniel and the Small Münsterländer.
Over the years, the Drente Spaniel has performed different tasks as a versatile hunting dog, farm dog and family companion, especially for children. Currently, the breed is gaining popularity outside the Netherlands as a hunting dog and family pet.
Breed characteristics
The Perdiguero de Drente is a well proportioned and muscular dog. Its head is wedge-shaped with wide-set, oval eyes with a kindly expression. The ears are high set, pendant and mobile, showing different moods. In movement, the tail is carried horizontally with a slight curl at the tip.
The coat is dense and double, with an outer coat of straight hair and a water-resistant undercoat. On the neck and the front of the chest, the coat is longer, as well as on the limbs and tail, where they have long bangs. The color of the coat is white with brown spots, with or without mottling. The ears and the hair around the eyes are completely brown.
The breed is distinguished by its great adaptability, which makes them versatile hunters both on land and in water. In addition, they are intelligent and calm-natured dogs that require little training. They are loyal and establish friendly relationships with children and other pets.
Common health problems
Information on the most common diseases in the Perdiguero de Drente breed is very limited. Even so, it is predisposed to suffer from some of the most common disorders in dogs such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, stomatitis and infectious ear diseases.
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