Dutch Schapendoes

Other names: Schapendoes, Dutch Sheepdog

Dutch Schapendoes

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.

Key facts about the Dutch Schapendoes

Life expectancy :

7

19

12

14

Temperament :

Playful Intelligent

Size :

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.

FCI breed nomenclature

FCI Group

Group 1 - Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)

Section

Section 1 : Sheepdogs

Physical characteristics of the Dutch Schapendoes

Adult size

Female : Between 16 and 19 in

Male : Between 17 and 20 in

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

Description

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.

Good to know

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

Temperament

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    Affectionate

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

  • 100%

    Playful

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

  • 66%

    Calm

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

  • 100%

    Intelligent

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

  • 33%

    Hunter

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

  • 33%

    Fearful / wary of strangers

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

  • 66%

    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.

    Behaviour of the Dutch Schapendoes

    • 66%

      Tolerates solitude

      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!

    • 66%

      Easy to train / obedience

      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.

    • 66%

      Barking

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

    • 66%