Drentse Patrijshond vs Alopekis - Breed Comparison

The Drentse Patrijshond came about in the 1930-1950s. The breed developed from pointing dogs which originated in Spain, arriving in the Netherlands in the 16th century and being known as Partridge dogs.

The eastern part was known as the Province of Drenthe, and it is this area where these Partridge dogs were bred exclusively, not being mixed with other unknown breeds.

After World War II the Drentse Patrijshond was also recognized by the FCI. It was a popular dog in the Netherlands and the breed was also recognized by the Dutch Kennel Club in 1943. The Dretse’s popularity grew in other European countries too. In the 1960s some of the dogs entered the United States and in 2008 the Drentse Patrijshond Club of North America was established.

The courageous Alopekis is said to have run with and fought with bulls. To this day they escort bulls in Greece. They were used by the Greeks to contain the vermin populations, guard the chickens and ducks, and assist larger dogs in working with sheep. At one time it was thought that they originated from breeding of dogs and foxes, but this proved not to be true. It was also once considered to be the same breed as the Small Greek Domestic Dog, but it has since been declared its own breed.

The Alopekis is not a recognized breed with any of the current national or international dog organizations. The Kennel Club of Greece will recognize them once their population is large enough. They cannot be recognized by the AKC, IKC, or International groups until they are a much larger group.

The Drentse Patrijshond is a medium to large sized dog standing between 55 and 63cm in height and weighing anything between 18 and 30kg. He is a working dog and known by other names such as Dutch Partridge Dog and Dutch Gundog among others.

The coat of the dog is medium length and dense and is mostly white with reddish brown markings. People looking at him liken him to a spaniel, pointer or setter kind of dog. He is athletic and muscular with a long feathery tail, floppy ears and a brown nose with amber colored eyes.

Temperament:

The Drentsche Patrijshond is an amicable family dog who is relaxed and calm around other pets in the home as well as children. In fact it is the kind of dog that forms a strong bond with his human family, not liking to be left alone.

He is a lively, alert and playful dog with a tendency to be a bit stubborn but this is easily dealt with when he undergoes training and socialization. He is an adaptable dog, being able to fit into life in the city or the countryside, just so long as his beloved owners are close by. However, he is very active and will require an owner who will take time out to take him on walks or involve him in lots of outdoor activities.

The Alopekis is a small, fox-like dog with pricked ears on a head that is wedge shaped. They have large eyes, a deep and tapered muzzle with a broad nose. They are short but have long backs and a deep, wide chest with strong legs and feet. They have a beautiful tail that cures upward and a double coat.

The Drentse Patrijshond is a breed of dog that is particularly human orientated – just loving being around his human family.

He forms a deep bond with those that care for him and he can’t bear to be separated from his human family. The dog has always had a strong hunting instinct but these days this sweet, loyal dog is much more a devoted family pet who is more than happy to come indoors and make himself at home among his family members.

Children – fine once socialized

Special Talents - These are herding, watch dog, loyal and brave dogs.

Adaptability – They are very adaptable and highly intelligent.

Learning Ability – Alopekis are highly intelligent and very trainable.

The Drentse is a fairly healthy dog breed, with a life span of 12 to 15 years. No matter how healthy your dog, there will always be some health issues it may face. Environmental factors and diet can play an important part in his wellbeing.

Health concerns with this breed can include progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia as well as hereditary stomatocytosis. This is a disorder that affects the dog’s cells walls.

Too much fluid gets into the cells and this damages red blood cells. Some breeds are more prone to this disorder, and the Drentse Patrijshond is one. It is an hereditary disorder that results in chronic anemia and liver disease.

The Alopekis is an endangered species of canine due to a variety of factors. Traditionally this has been a healthy gene pool and the breed has been an example of the evolution of small canines. Factors such as farm pesticides, urbanization and cross breeding have affected the breed’s future.

This is made worse by the fact that the female Alopekis only breeds once a year, the litters are small, and the puppy mortality is high. In addition, the dogs are regularly neutered as part of a program to control strays, despite their status as an endangered species.

Grooming:

This dog is quite a heavy shedder, but even so, he won’t need professional grooming – just a good brushing twice a week.

The teeth will need to be brushed 2 or 3x a week and because he has floppy ears, these will need to be checked for infection. It’s a good idea to clean them with some special dog ear cleanser, but if you’re not sure how, your vet or a professional groomer can do it for you.

Cut your dog’ nails, but once again if you think you might cut into the quick of the nail, causing bleeding and pain, a professional groomer can do it for you.

Diet:

The Drentsche Patrijshond will require quality dry dog food. Speak to your vet about the best kibble that ensures your pet gets his full quota of vitamins and minerals. Add in cooked brown rice, vegetables and chicken from time to time and include some raw meat wherever possible. Adding in some raw meat helps to stave off dry, red, irritated skin. Your pet will also need access to fresh, cool water day and night.

Feeding the Puppy

This is a high energy dog and the puppies need to be fed a high-quality puppy food. Feed about 1/3 of a cup twice a day.

Feeding the Adult

Feed high- quality dry dog food and dog treats to this active dog. Feed about ¼ of a cup twice a day – more if below average weight and less if overweight.

Points for Good Health

Keep them active and away from pesticides if possible.

Games and Exercises

This is a very active dog that needs a lot of exercise, games and if possible – a job.