Drentsche Patrijshond Breed Guide: Temperament and Care

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Drentsche Patrijshond, or Dutch Partridge Dog, is a gentle, versatile gundog from the province of Drenthe in the Netherlands. It has a feathered coat, a friendly face and an easygoing temperament, and it is still rare outside its homeland.

Origins and appearance

The breed descends from old spaniel-type dogs brought to the Netherlands and was used by farmers and hunters to find and retrieve game birds. Drentsche Patrijshonden are medium-sized and sturdy, with a long head, drop ears, a thick coat with feathering, a plumed tail and a white coat with brown or orange patches.

Temperament

They are friendly, gentle and loyal. They love family and are usually good with children and other pets. They are calm indoors but eager outside. They can be independent and sensitive. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, with walks, swimming and scent work. They enjoy field work and hiking. Mental work matters. They need secure fencing.

Training

They are intelligent and willing. Use positive, patient methods and early socialization. Teach a reliable recall, since scents are tempting. They can be slow to mature. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The feathered coat needs brushing several times a week, especially behind the ears, on the legs and on the tail. See silky coat dog grooming guide. Clean the ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Epilepsy. See seizures and epilepsy in dogs
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Skin conditions. See dog skin allergies
• von Willebrand disease

Living with a Drentsche Patrijshond

They suit active families with a yard. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone.

A typical day

A Drent wants a morning outing, training, a rest, play and an evening walk. Many are calm indoors and follow their people.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and affectionate. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, grooming and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well and enjoy swimming, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, skipping coat care, leaving the dog alone and expecting instant obedience.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, epilepsy history and the parents' temperaments. The breed is rare, so expect a wait.

An old Dutch farm dog

The breed worked as an all-round farm and hunting dog, so many Drents are comfortable with other animals and people. They hunt at a measured pace and stay close to their handler.

Daily care checklist

• A walk or swim with room to explore.
• Training or scent games.
• Brushing the feathering and checking for burrs.
• Ear checks after swimming.
• Company and a soft bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Drentsche Patrijshond suits active, patient owners who want a gentle, versatile gundog and accept a long wait for a puppy. It may not suit those wanting a very obedient dog. For another spaniel-type gundog, see the Brittany.

Gentle but not lazy

The Drent's easygoing manner can mislead new owners. Beneath the calm exterior is a working gundog that needs a daily outing, scent games and real company. A bored Drent may become a restless chewer or a determined digger, so give it activities that use its nose.

Handling and sensitivity

Many Drents are soft and respond badly to harsh voices. Calm, consistent handling and rewards for good choices build trust. Gentle early exposure to new people, sounds and places helps the dog grow into a steady adult.

The takeaway

Drentsche Patrijshonden are gentle, versatile and friendly, and they need exercise, grooming and company.