Dutch Schapendoes

Other names : Schapendoes, Dutch Sheepdog

The Schapendoes is a long-haired, shaggy working breed of dog native to the Netherlands. This is a dog with high energy and a smart, alert, mind - it requires an owner who can keep up with these impressive physical and mental abilities. With that said, its kind, loyal and cheerful nature makes it a wonderful family companion.

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Life expectancy	The Dutch Schapendoes has a life expectancy of between 12 and 14 years
Temperament	Playful Intelligent
Size	Medium
Adult size	Female Between 16 and 19 in Male Between 17 and 20 in
Adult weight	Female Between 22 and 40 lb Male Between 22 and 40 lb
Coat colour	Black White Brown Blue Red Sand
Type of coat	Long Wavy
Eye colour	Brown

Good to know

Schapendoes were almost wiped out during WWII, but were saved thanks to a small group of dedicated breeders.

More details about the Dutch Schapendoes

Dutch Schapendoes: Origins and history

The lovely Schapendoes breed originates from Holland and was a highly capable farm and herding dog there. It wasn’t recognized by the Dutch Raad van Beheer (the national kennel club) until 1952. After almost facing extinction, this breed is still endangered today and is extremely rare in the UK.

Physical characteristics of the Dutch Schapendoes

The Schapendoes is a medium-sized dog with a striking long, shaggy coat and adorable moustache. The ears are high-set, small and completely covered in fur, while the eyes are large with a frank, loyal, and lively expression. The body is athletic and agile; longer than it is tall.

FCI classification of the Dutch Schapendoes

Group 1 - Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)
Section 1 : Sheepdogs

Dutch Schapendoes: Characteristics

More or less affectionate

A naturally warm and friendly dog, especially when well-socialized. Loyal and affectionate towards its family.

Very playful

Known to be a jolly, cheerful and playful breed who loves goofing around, playing games, and sports.

More or less calm

The Schapendoes is an alert, active and energetic breed by nature but is calm indoors if well-exercised.

High intelligence

Incredibly smart, capable of learning new tricks and completing tasks with ease. Due to its high intelligence, the Schapendoes requires plenty of mental stimulation.

Low prey drive

This breed has low hunting instinct and, thankfully, is unlikely to chase small animals.

Not fearful of strangers

As a naturally friendly breed, a well-socialized Schapendoes has little problem around strangers and warms to new faces quickly.

Moderately independent

If you’re thinking of adopting a Schapendoes, be aware that it has a definite independent streak to its personality. Without proper training, it could be end up overly stubborn and feel it can lash out.

Dutch Schapendoes: Behaviour

Moderately tolerant of being left alone

The Schapendoes isn’t a breed you can leave alone for hours without being accustomed to it from a young age. If left for too long, he could become destructive and bark excessively - the neighbours won’t be happy!

Moderately easy to train

The Schapendoes, despite having an independent and stubborn streak, is very eager to please. While he will definitely require firm and consistent training, he is more than capable of picking up new commands and tricks easily.

Moderately vocal

Not known as a nuisance barker, unless bored or left alone for too long.

Has a moderate tendency to run away

Thanks to its low prey-drive, the Schapendoes isn’t likely to suddenly run away unless he hasn’t been well-exercised. However, it is an extremely skilled jumper and may be capable of jumping over garden fences.

Can be destructive

The Schapendoes gets bored easy and if it’s under exercised or left home alone for a long period of time, it could become destructive.

Moderately food motivated

This breed can be a little greedy - go easy on the treats and avoid leaving lying food around.

Not necessarily a watchdog

The Schapendoes may bark at the presence of a stranger, but due to its naturally friendly and inquisitive nature, this isn’t guaranteed. Not an aggressive or overly protective breed.

Training a Dutch Schapendoes

Dutch Schapendoes: Lifestyle

Not very compatible with living in a flat

The Schapendoes is more suited to a house with a garden to roam around in.

Needs a lot of exercise

Since it was bred to herd, it comes as no surprise the Dutch Sheepdog is incredibly active. This dog has a high exercise requirement and is best suited to a life full of activity, sports and adventure. Ideally, it will receive 2-3 long walks every day and have regular opportunities to jog, run, hike and swim.

Moderately easy to travel with

This is a medium-sized breed who should be able to fit comfortably in a large car.

Breed compatibility Dutch Schapendoes

Compatible with cats

The Schapendoes gets along well with cats, especially if it’s brought up around them from a young age. If you’re looking to house your dog with cats, ensure it has regular exposure to them as a puppy.

Compatible with other dogs

Again, the Schapendoes can live happily with other dogs if socialized well throughout early life.

Compatible with children

A wonderful and playful companion for children but may try to herd small kids.

Not compatible with senior owners

This breed is likely to be far too energetic and active for an elderly owner.

Moderately recommended for a first-time owner

This dog can be adopted by a novice, but only if they take his extremely high exercise requirements and strong will into account.

Dutch Schapendoes: Purchase price

We do not have enough data to set an average price for purchase. However, looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £60 to £90 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.

Dutch Schapendoes: Shedding

Average

Low to medium shedding - regular grooming will help.

Dutch Schapendoes: Grooming

The Schapendoes’ stunning shaggy coat requires brushing 1-2 times per week. This breed should be bathed occasionally and only when necessary, as too many baths may dry out the skin. The Schapendoes’s nails grow rapidly and need trimming regularly. Check the ears every week and clean if necessary to avoid wax and debris build-up. Brush the teeth as often as you can - ideally every day.

Dutch Schapendoes: Health

Life expectancy

The Schaependoes is generally a hardy breed but is highly prone to a serious eye condition. It's life expectancy is 13 years.

Strong / robust

Overall, this is a robust and healthy breed.

Vulnerability to hot weather

The Schapendoes isn’t afraid of high temperatures.

Vulnerability to cold weather

The Schapendoes is bred to herd sheep in cold and wet weather conditions, with a thick, protective, insulating coat to keep it warm.

Tendency to put on weight

An active Schapendoes is unlikely to gain excess weight. However, sometimes this breed has eyes bigger than its stomach - measure out food allowances daily.

Common illnesses