The Netherlands stands out as the first nation to eradicate stray dogs entirely – a remarkable feat reflecting the Dutch people’s profound love for their four-legged companions1.
With nearly half (45%) of the country’s households owning at least one dog2, the Dutch have shown unwavering dedication to canine welfare through innovative programs and progressive laws, setting a global model. In the Netherlands, dogs aren’t just pets – they’re cherished family members, loyal companions, and an integral part of the nation’s cultural fabric.
Let’s learn about ten distinctive dutch dog breeds that originated in this country, with each boasting a unique personality and rich heritage intertwined with its culture.
1. Drentsche Patrijshond (Drentse Partridge Dog)
Size: Medium (19-24 inches tall, 40-60 pounds)
Type of Coat: Flat, straight coat with feathering
Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, energetic, and focused
Originating from the province of Drenthe, this breed is a true gem of the Dutch hunting scene. With its distinctive brown and white coat, the Drentsche Patrijshond was originally bred to hunt partridges and other small game.
These athletic dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and unwavering determination in the field, making them the perfect hunting partners.
2. Keeshond
Size: Medium (17-18 inches tall, 35-45 pounds)
Type of Coat: Thick, double coat with a plush outer coat and a dense undercoat
Temperament: Lively, intelligent, friendly, and loyal
The Keeshond’s iconic “spectacle” markings around its eyes have made it a beloved symbol of Dutch heritage. These lively and intelligent companions were once the trusted guardians of the Dutch nobility, accompanying them on voyages and guarding their homes with unwavering loyalty.
3. Schapendoes (Dutch Sheepdog)
Size: Medium (16-20 inches tall, 40-60 pounds)
Type of Coat: Long, thick, and woolly outer coat with a soft undercoat
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, active, and protective
The Schapendoes, affectionately known as the “Dutch Sheepdog,” is a breed that perfectly blends rugged charm with a gentle, affectionate nature. Originally bred in the Netherlands as hardworking herding dogs, these versatile canines have a rich history intertwined with the country’s agricultural traditions.
While their distinctive long, woolly coats might give them a cuddly appearance, don’t let that fool you – the Schapendoes is a breed born to work.
4. Stabyhoun (Frisian Pointer)
Size: Medium (16-20 inches tall, 35-45 pounds)
Type of Coat: Straight, harsh outer coat with a soft undercoat
Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, affectionate, and determined
Hailing from the northern province of Friesland, the Stabyhoun is a true gem among Dutch dog breeds. With their striking black and white coats and intelligent expressions, these dogs are not only beautiful but also highly skilled hunters.
5. Kooikerhondje (Dutch Decoy Dog)
Size: Small (14-16 inches tall, 20-25 pounds)
Type of Coat: Waterproof, dense outer coat with a soft undercoat
Temperament: Inquisitive, energetic, intelligent, and eager to please
The Kooikerhondje, or Dutch Decoy Dog, is a breed that perfectly embodies the Netherlands’ rich hunting heritage and unwavering spirit of innovation.
But what truly sets these dogs apart is their unique hunting technique. Kooikerhondjes were trained to lure ducks into a special type of trap pond, known as a “kooiker,” by running back and forth along the edge of the water, piquing the birds’ curiosity.
Their agility and intelligence made them masters of this intricate and innovative hunting method, a testament to the ingenuity of their Dutch breeders.
6. Hollandse Herder (Dutch Shepherd)
Size: Medium (21-24 inches tall, 50-70 pounds)
Type of Coat: Rough, straight outer coat with a dense undercoat
Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, versatile, and hardworking
Originally bred in the Netherlands as versatile farm dogs, these intelligent and hardworking canines have played a crucial role in the country’s agricultural traditions, proving themselves invaluable partners to farmers and shepherds alike.
7. Saarloos Wolfdog
Size: Large (24-28 inches tall, 70-90 pounds)
Type of Coat: Thick, straight outer coat with a dense undercoat
Temperament: Confident, intelligent, independent, and protective
The Saarloos Wolfdog is a breed that truly embodies the wild spirit of the Netherlands, born from a groundbreaking experiment that blended the domestic and the untamed.
Developed in the 1930s by Dutch breeder Leendert Saarloos, these remarkable dogs were created by crossing a Dutch Shepherd with a Eurasian Wolf, resulting in a unique and striking hybrid that captures the best of both worlds.
8. Wetterhoun (Frisian Water Dog)
Size: Medium (20-24 inches tall, 45-60 pounds)
Type of Coat: Distinctive, tightly-curled outer coat with a dense undercoat
Temperament: Intelligent, eager to please, energetic, and affectionate
Originating from the province of Friesland, the Wetterhoun, or Frisian Water Dog, is a breed that has been intertwined with Dutch history for centuries.
These robust and intelligent dogs were originally bred to assist hunters in retrieving waterfowl from marshes and lakes. Their distinctive curly, water-repellent coats and webbed feet make Wetterhounen very strong and skilled swimmers.
9. Dutch Smoushond
Size: Small (10-14 inches tall, 15-20 pounds)
Type of Coat: Smooth, short coat
Temperament: Friendly, lively, alert, and affectionate
The Dutch Smoushond is a small breed with a long history tied to the Netherlands’ maritime culture. Originally bred as companions for Dutch fishermen, these dogs would accompany their owners on fishing boats, providing companionship during extended journeys at sea.
One of the breed’s most distinctive traits is their expressive, “smiling” facial expressions which endeared them to many dog lovers
10. Markiesje
Size: Toy (9-12 inches tall, 5-10 pounds)
Type of Coat: Smooth, short coat
Temperament: Charming, affectionate, lively, devoted
The Markiesje, also known as the Little Mustached Dog or Little Gentleman Dog, is one of the rarer Dutch breeds with origins dating back to the 17th century. These tiny companions were once favored by wealthy Dutch families and Dutch nobility as household pets and lap warmers.
The Markiesje’s lineage can be traced back to the Pug, Maltese, and other toy breeds once popular among the Dutch upper class in the 1600s. By the 20th century, their numbers dwindled severely until concerted breed revival efforts helped increase Markiesje populations.
While still a rare breed outside their native Netherlands, Markiesjes are slowly gaining popularity among those seeking a charming toy companion with an engaging personality packed into a compact size.
Exploring the Fascinating World of Dutch Dog Breeds
The Netherlands may be a small country, but it has made a big impact on the world of dogs. With a rich history of breeding and a commitment to animal welfare, the Dutch have created some of the most beloved and fascinating dog breeds around.
From the hardworking Dutch Shepherd to the rare and elegant Markiesje, these breeds showcase the diversity and charm of Dutch canine culture.
Sources
- https://dutchreview.com/culture/how-did-the-netherlands-become-the-first-country-to-have-no-stray-dogs/
- https://www.flamingo.be/en/news/pets-in-the-netherlands-an-estimate-of-the-number-of-furry-friends
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.