The Drentse Patrijshond: loyal family dog with a versatile character
The Drentse Patrijshond is a Dutch dog breed with a long tradition and a close bond with its family. In this article, we'll show you what makes the "Drenten" special, its distinguishing characteristics, how it should be kept, and whether it suits your lifestyle. We'll also help you better understand it with a comparison.
What defines the Drentse Patrijshond as a breed?
The Drentse Patrijshond, or Drente for short, is a pointing dog and originates from the Dutch province of Drenthe. Since the 16th century, it has been bred as a versatile hunting companion, used for pointing, retrieving, and tracking. Today, it is enjoying increasing popularity as a family dog—not least because of its friendly and loyal nature.
Key features at a glance
- Intelligent and eager to learn – ideal for working with humans.
- Attachment-oriented – develops close emotional relationships.
- Protective – without being aggressive – he reports intruders.
- Adaptable – feels equally at home in the country as in the city (with sufficient exercise).
What does a Drentse Patrijshond look like?
The Drenthe is medium-sized and powerfully built. Its soft, medium-length coat is usually white with brown or orange patches. Males reach a shoulder height of approximately 60 cm, while females are somewhat smaller.
His droopy ears and alert, gentle gaze are characteristic. His thick coat protects him in all weather conditions and makes him particularly robust for outdoor activities.
What kind of home suits a Drenthe?
The Drentse Patrijshond isn't a typical dog for beginners, but it's perfectly suited to people who lead an active and sociable lifestyle. Keeping this people-oriented breed in a kennel is out of the question.
Requirements for posture and everyday life
- Daily exercise: At least two long walks or runs per day
- Mental exercise: nose work, dummy training or dog sports such as agility
- Family connection: The Drenthe suffers from isolation and boredom
Drentse Patrijshond compared with other pointing dogs
| race | character | Need for exercise | Care | Suitable for families |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drentse Patrijshond | Loyal, vigilant, family-oriented | Very high | Medium | Very good |
| Münsterlander | Temperamental, intelligent, friendly | Very high | Medium | Good |
| German Shorthaired Pointer | Independent, hardworking | Extremely high | Small amount | Sufficient with proper utilization |
Health and care of the Drenth
Despite its robustness, the Drenthe requires a certain amount of health care. Regular grooming is essential, especially during the shedding season. The ears should be checked weekly, as they can be prone to infection.
Breed-specific health problems include:
- Hip dysplasia (HD)
- Ear infections caused by drooping ears
- Rare: genetic eye diseases
Species-appropriate activity prevents both behavioral problems and health problems – as does an adapted diet .
How can Bones Hands support your Drenten?
Does your Drenthe seem tense or lacking in movement? Then our Fellness Massage might be just the thing. Our team of experts, including Marius, our animal massage specialist, tailors the treatment to your dog's individual needs.
Benefits of Fellness Treatment at Bones Hands
- Promotes mobility and well-being of your dog
- Targeted relief from muscular complaints
- Especially supports sporting dogs like the Drenten after intensive activity
For personal consultations, our animal therapists are available at +49 (0)234 91 52 63 70 or via email at support@boneshands.de . Alternatively, you can conveniently book an appointment online .
Demo date and experience report
Want to see for yourself? Schedule a trial appointment with us in Bochum (Herner Straße 299, Building C43, 44809 Bochum). Watch testimonials on our YouTube channel or follow us on Instagram to see real before-and-after examples of our animal patients.
Is the Drentse Patrijshond the right dog for you?
The Drenthe is a loyal, eager-to-learn dog with a great need for exercise. With his close bond with the family and high intelligence, he needs dedicated owners who can challenge him not only physically but also mentally. When properly cared for, he is a friendly, reliable companion – for families, sporty couples, or nature-loving individuals.
If you'd like to offer your Drenthe dog targeted support in addition to daily exercise, visit us at Bones Hands . We're available to answer your questions by phone, email, or in person. Together, we'll help your four-legged friend enjoy life and be more agile.
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