The Netherlands, known for its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, is also home to a fascinating array of dog breeds reflecting the nation’s deep-rooted connection to canine companionship.
From versatile herding dogs to spirited hunting companions, these Dutch breeds offer an extraordinary glimpse into the world of Dutch canine heritage, showcasing their distinctive appearances and the integral roles they’ve played in the lives of their owners over the years.
Whether you’re a dog enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the remarkable diversity of breeds worldwide, this list of 12 Dutch dogs will surely impress you.
The 12 Dutch Dog Breeds
1. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
| Class: | Sporting |
| Lifespan: | 10–12 years |
| Height: | 20–24 inches (51–61 cm) |
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a versatile and highly skilled sporting breed known for their distinctive wiry coat and exceptional hunting abilities. They’re native to Europe and were developed for pointing and retrieving game birds in harsh terrains. With their keen noses and boundless energy, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons excel as hunting companions, equally proficient on land and water.
Their courteous and obedient nature makes them excellent hunting partners and beloved family pets. Characterized by their rugged appearance and wiry coat, Griffons are as hardworking as they are affectionate. They form strong bonds with their families while displaying unwavering dedication in the field.
2. Saarloos Wolfdog
| Class: | Working |
| Lifespan: | 10–12 years |
| Height: | 24–30 inches (61–76 cm) |
The Saarloos Wolfdog is a striking and unique breed, famous for their wolf-like appearance and loyal disposition. They originated from a cross between a German Shepherd and a Eurasian wolf in the early 20th century, resulting in a canine with a stronger sense of pack loyalty.
While their wild appearance might suggest an aloof temperament, Saarloos Wolfdogs are devoted to their families. They excel in various canine sports and thrive with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Owners of the Saarloos Wolfdog often appreciate their striking appearance and the opportunity to forge a close bond with a breed that embodies both the wild and the domesticated worlds.
3. Dutch Shepherd
| Class: | Herding |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Height: | 5–24.5 inches (55–62 cm) |
The Dutch Shepherd is a versatile, hardworking breed that embodies intelligence, agility, and unwavering loyalty. They were traditionally bred for herding livestock, and their incredible work ethic and quick thinking have made them exceptional all-around working dogs.
With a striking appearance, Dutch Shepherds typically have a brindle coat, erect ears, and a keen, alert expression. They are known for their versatility, excelling in various roles such as police work, search and rescue, and even as loving family companions.
Their protective instincts and gentle demeanor make them playmates for young children.
4. Drentsche Patrijshond (Dutch Partridge Dog)
| Class: | Sporting |
| Lifespan: | 12–14 years |
| Height: | 21–25 inches (53–63.5 cm) |
The Dutch Partridge Dog, also known as the Drentsche Patrijshond, is a charming and rare canine with a rich history deeply rooted in the Netherlands. This versatile pointing breed was initially developed for hunting game birds and small game, showcasing their exceptional hunting instincts and intelligence.
They are renowned for their elegant yet sturdy appearance, characterized by a feathered coat and expressive eyes that reflect their friendly nature. Beyond their hunting prowess, Drentsche Patrijshonds are cherished family companions, treasured for their gentle and affectionate temperament.
Their adaptability, willingness to please, and affinity for outdoor activities make them a fantastic choice for hunters and families seeking an enduring and loyal canine companion.
5. Stabyhoun
| Class: | Sporting |
| Lifespan: | 12–14 years |
| Height: | 5–21.5 inches (49.5–54.5 cm) |
The Stabyhoun, also known as the Dutch Stabyhoun or Frisian Pointer, is a captivating and rare breed from the Netherlands. Known for their endearing, shaggy appearance and friendly demeanor, Stabyhouns are versatile and loyal companions.
Bred initially as versatile farm dogs, they excel in various roles, including hunting small game, retrieving, and serving as affectionate family pets. Their name, “Stabyhoun,” translates to “stand by the dog” in Dutch, which reflects their unwavering devotion to their owners.
6. Kooikerhondje
| Class: | Sporting |
| Lifespan: | 12–14 years |
| Height: | 13–16 inches (33–41 cm) |
The Kooikerhondje is a charming and lively breed from the Netherlands. This small-to-medium-sized dog is known for their striking orange-red and white coat, distinctive feathered tail, and perky ears.
Used initially as a duck-hunting dog, the Kooikerhondje’s name is derived from “kooiker,” meaning “duck decoy.” They played a crucial role in luring and herding ducks into traps for hunters. Today, Kooikerhondjes are cherished as delightful family companions due to their affectionate nature.
7. Schapendoes
| Class: | Herding |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Height: | 5–19.5 inches (42–50 cm) |
The Schapendoes, often called the Dutch Sheepdog, is a delightful and shaggy herding breed from the Netherlands. This medium-sized dog is famous for their tousled coat, expressive dark eyes, and perpetually wagging tail, which reflects their friendly and animated personality.
Originally bred for herding and guarding sheep, the Schapendoes are known for their agility, intelligence, and reliability. They thrive on physical and mental stimulation, making them excellent companions for active families.
8. Wetterhoun
| Class: | Sporting |
| Lifespan: | 11–13 years |
| Height: | 5–21.5 inches (49.5–54.5 cm) |
The Wetterhoun, often called the Frisian Water Dog, is a robust and unique breed. Named after the Dutch word “wetterhoun,” which means “water dog,” they were bred to assist in hunting otters and waterfowl in the marshy regions of their homeland.
They are instantly recognizable by their curly, water-resistant coat and distinctive facial furnishings. Wetterhouns are known for their strong work ethic, determination, and intelligence, which make them excellent hunters and watchdogs. Beyond their working abilities, they are cherished as loyal family companions, displaying a calm and gentle demeanor with their loved ones.
9. Markiesje
| Class: | Toy |
| Lifespan: | 12–14 years |
| Height: | 5–12.5 inches (24–30 cm) |
The Markiesje, also known as a Dutch Tulip Hound, is a small dog with a big personality! They’re famous for their elegant appearance and charming demeanor. They have a glossy, jet-black coat and a gracefully feathered tai.
Despite their diminutive size, the Markiesje is surprisingly agile and ideal for active families and individuals. They are cherished for their affectionate nature, forming strong bonds with their owners and thriving on human companionship.
10. Keeshond
| Class: | Non-sporting |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Height: | 17–18 inches (43–46 cm) |
The Keeshond, a charismatic breed native to the Netherlands, is known for their charming appearance and friendly personality. Instantly recognizable by their plush, foxlike double coats, erect pointed ears, and expressive “spectacles” marking around the eyes, Keeshonds are beloved for their cheerful and alert disposition.
Despite their diminutive stature, they were initially bred as barge dogs to guard Dutch canal boats. They are natural watchdogs, loyal to their families, and quick to sound the alarm if something seems amiss.
11. Dutch Smoushond
| Class: | Terrier |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Height: | 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) |
The Dutch Smoushond is a small Terrier with an endearingly scruffy appearance and a big heart. This charming and relatively rare canine is characterized by their rough, wiry coat, expressive eyes, and distinctive, bushy mustache and beard.
Bred in the Netherlands as a farm and pest control dog, the Dutch Smoushond is fearless when chasing and catching rodents. Despite their small size, they have a bold and confident personality. They make excellent watchdogs and affectionate pets.
12. Bouvier des Flandres
| Class: | Herding |
| Lifespan: | 10–12 years |
| Height: | 5–27.5 inches (60–70 cm) |
The Bouvier des Flandres is a bold and versatile working breed from the Flanders region of Belgium. This imposing and powerful dog is instantly recognizable by their thick, weather-resistant coat, impressive beard, and well-muscled frame.
They used to help farmers drive cattle, but the Bouvier des Flandres excels in various roles, including search and rescue, police work, and as a loyal family protector. Despite their imposing appearance, Bouviers are known for their steady and calm temperament, as well as their unwavering devotion to their families.
Final Thoughts
The 12 Dutch dog breeds explored in this article provide a tapestry of diversity and history. From the hardworking Dutch Shepherd to the elegant Stabyhoun, each canine has a unique story and purpose deeply intertwined with Dutch culture and tradition.
As we’ve discovered, Dutch dog breeds embody a rich heritage and continue to enrich the lives of people around the world with their distinctive qualities. They are a source of pride for the Netherlands and a source of joy for dog enthusiasts everywhere!
Featured Image Credit: Max Jongkoen, Shutterstock
