ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISDutch schapendoes
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog dutch schapendoes!
Here, you will find all the useful information about dutch schapendoes. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The Schapendoes originated in the Netherlands in the early 19th century, primarily bred for herding and protecting sheep flocks. This breed was developed by P. M. C. Toepoel, an experienced dog breeder, judge, and passionate cynophile. His aim was to create a versatile dog with high intelligence and remarkable endurance.
During World War II, the Nederlandse Schapendoes faced near-extinction, but thanks to dedicated breeders, the breed was revived in Northern Europe starting from 1947, with the establishment of a club exclusively dedicated to its preservation. In 1952, the official breed standard was set and registered by the Dutch Kennel Club. However, it took nearly 40 more years for the International Cynological Federation to officially recognize the breed on May 17, 1991.
The Dutch Schapendoes is a medium-sized dog, well-proportioned and consistent in overall appearance. It is characterized by a particularly lively energy and extremely agile and vigorous hindquarters.
With a slightly longer than tall silhouette, its body forms a harmonious rectangle. It has a well-developed and straight chest, a curved backline, and an elevated belly. Its head is nicely round with a moderately long square-shaped muzzle. A well-defined stop separates the muzzle from the skull, which is narrow, flat, and rather broad. Its long and abundant coat covers its entire body, offering excellent protection against humid or rainy weather conditions.
Equipped with thick and long ears, its tail extends to the hock and is adorned with a long fringe of hair. While the breed standard accepts all colors, black and white as well as blue are preferred.
The Nederlandse Schapendoes is a versatile companion with a remarkable adaptability. It is designed to excel in work and displays extreme loyalty to its owner. Naturally cheerful and endearing, it is incredibly affectionate towards all members of its family, always eager to please those it loves. Its guarding and obedience instincts are innate, and it remains constantly vigilant to its surroundings, missing nothing. Enduring and willing, it has high energy expenditure needs, making it better suited for country living, although it can also adapt to urban life.
Its kindness matches its courage. It is gentle with children and protective of its loved ones, establishing itself as an excellent guardian that never backs down from danger. However, for a harmonious relationship, its exuberant enthusiasm must be channeled from a young age, as a lack of authority could quickly become challenging to manage. Faithful and affectionate, the Schapendoes is a wonderful daily companion, always attentive and devoted to the well-being of its family.
In adulthood, it will weigh between 12 and 18 kg (26.5 to 40 lb) and measure between 42 and 50 cm (16.5" - 19.5") at the withers for males, and between 40 and 47 cm (16" - 18.5") for females.
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Origins
The Dutch Schapendoes, or Dutch Sheepdog, originates from the Netherlands, where it was primarily used as a shepherd dog to drive and guard flocks of sheep. This rugged breed is closely related to other European shepherd dogs like the Briard and the Bearded Collie. Schapendoes were particularly valued for their agility, intelligence, and ability to work independently. They were often seen in the marshy regions and moors of the Netherlands, where their endurance and resilience made them indispensable to local shepherds.
History
The history of the Dutch Schapendoes dates back to the 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the breed began to formalize. During World War II, the Schapendoes population decreased significantly, almost to extinction. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of passionate breeders like P.M.C. Toepoel, the breed was restored and standardized. In 1945, the first efforts to restore the breed began, and in 1952, the Schapendoes was recognized by the Raad van Beheer, the Dutch kennel club. Today, it is appreciated both as a working dog and as a family companion.
Standard
The Dutch Schapendoes is a medium-sized, sturdy and well-proportioned dog. According to the breed standard, males measure between 43 and 50 cm at the withers, while females measure between 40 and 47 cm. Their weight ranges from 12 to 18 kg. The Schapendoes has a long, thick and slightly wavy coat, providing good protection against the weather. The coat colors can vary, although shades of blue-gray and black are the most common. The head is wide with drooping ears, expressive eyes, and a well-defined muzzle. Their overall appearance is that of an agile and lively dog.
Physical characteristics
The Dutch Schapendoes is an athletic and graceful dog with a well-muscled body. Males measure from 43 to 50 cm and females from 40 to 47 cm, with a weight ranging from 12 to 18 kg. Their coat is a distinctive feature: long, thick and slightly wavy, it provides excellent protection against the weather. The colors range from blue-gray to black, often with mixed shades. The head is wide and expressive, with hanging ears and dark, lively eyes. The tail is well covered in hair and carried like a saber, adding to their elegant and dynamic appearance.
Character
The Dutch Schapendoes is known for its cheerful, energetic, and affectionate temperament. It is an intelligent and independent dog, but also very attached to its family. It is naturally sociable and gets along well with children and other pets. Its liveliness and enthusiasm make it an excellent companion for outdoor activities. The Schapendoes is also known for its playful nature and ability to learn quickly. However, its intelligence can make it a bit stubborn, requiring firm but gentle training. In summary, it is a balanced, dynamic, and very loyal dog.
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of the Dutch Schapendoes is between 12 and 15 years, which is relatively long for a dog of its size. To maximize its longevity, it is crucial to provide it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper veterinary care. This breed is generally robust and healthy, but like all dogs, it can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Special attention should be paid to regular health exams to quickly detect and treat any potential problems. By taking good care of their Schapendoes, owners can hope to enjoy many years of happiness with their companion.
Exercise and activity needs
The Dutch Schapendoes is an extremely active breed that requires a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. It needs at least one to two hours of physical activity daily, including walks, fetch games, and training sessions. Due to its herding roots, it excels in activities requiring agility and endurance, such as agility and flyball. Additionally, its intelligent and curious nature means it also benefits from mental stimulation through puzzle games and training sessions. Regular exercise helps prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Recommended diet
The Dutch Schapendoes requires a balanced and high-quality diet to maintain its health and energy. It is recommended to provide premium kibble or a mixed diet including fresh foods rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The monthly cost of food for a Schapendoes generally varies between 40 and 80 euros, depending on the quality of the food and the specific needs of the dog. It is important to monitor its weight and regularly consult a veterinarian to adjust its diet according to its age, activity level, and overall health condition.
Training and obedience
The Dutch Schapendoes is an intelligent and receptive dog, which makes its training relatively easy. However, due to its independent nature, it requires a gentle but firm approach. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, are particularly effective. Early socialization is crucial for getting along well with other animals and people. Schapendoes are also very responsive to agility and obedience training, which helps channel their energy and intelligence in a constructive way. Consistent education and regular training sessions are essential for harmonious development.
Behavior with children
The Dutch Schapendoes is an excellent companion for children because of its affectionate and playful temperament. Its gentle and tolerant nature allows it to easily get along with young children, making it an ideal member for families. However, as with any dog, it is important to supervise interactions between children and the dog to prevent unintentional accidents. Children should also be taught to respect the dog and interact with it appropriately. With proper socialization and training, the Schapendoes can be a loyal and protective friend for children.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The Dutch Schapendoes is generally compatible with other pets, especially if socialized from a young age. Its sociable and friendly nature allows it to coexist harmoniously with other dogs and even cats. However, due to its herding instincts, it may sometimes try to gather other animals, which may require appropriate supervision and training. Continuous socialization and gradual introduction to other animals will help develop positive relationships. With proper training, the Schapendoes can become an excellent companion for all household members, including other animals.
Grooming needs
The Dutch Schapendoes has a long and thick coat that requires regular maintenance to stay healthy and free of tangles. Brushing fully two to three times a week is essential to remove dead hair and prevent matting. During seasonal shedding periods, daily brushing may be necessary. Baths can be given every two to three months or as needed, using a gentle dog shampoo. It is also important to regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections, trim their nails monthly, and brush their teeth several times a week for good oral hygiene.
Health
The Dutch Schapendoes is generally healthy, but like all breeds, it can be predisposed to certain medical conditions. Common problems include hip dysplasia, eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and heart problems. It is crucial to choose a responsible breeder who conducts health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize the risks of these diseases. Regular veterinary visits, balanced nutrition, and appropriate exercise are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of the Schapendoes. Careful monitoring and preventive care can help extend its active and healthy life.
Average price
The price of a Dutch Schapendoes puppy generally ranges between 800 and 1500 euros, depending on the quality of the bloodlines, the breeder's reputation, and the location. Puppies from champion bloodlines or intended for shows may cost more. It is essential to choose a reputable breeder who conducts health tests on the parents and provides adequate living conditions for the puppies. The initial cost may seem high, but it reflects the care and investments needed to raise healthy and well-socialized dogs. Additionally, it supports ethical and responsible breeding practices.
Expenses
Annual expenses for a Dutch Schapendoes can vary considerably depending on its specific needs. On average, you should budget between 1200 and 1800 euros (approximately 1300 to 2000 dollars) per year. This includes high-quality food, regular veterinary care, grooming products, toys, and accessories. Veterinary costs may increase with health problems requiring additional treatments. Pet health insurance can also be a useful expense to consider for unexpected medical issues. By taking care of these aspects, owners can ensure a long and healthy life for their Schapendoes.
Name ideas
Choosing a name for your Dutch Schapendoes can be inspired by its origins and its character. "Milo" evokes sweetness and friendship, perfect for an affectionate dog. "Luna" means "moon" in Latin, reflecting its calm nature. "Zephyr" recalls a light breeze, suited to its agility. "Bella" means "beautiful" in Italian, perfect for a graceful female. "Max" is classic and simple. "Odin" is powerful, reminiscent of the Norse god. "Nala" is sweet and exotic. "Finn" is short and friendly. "Ruby" evokes rarity and value. "Sasha" is charming and elegant.
Legislation and regulation
The Dutch Schapendoes is generally not subject to specific restrictions in terms of legislation and regulation in most countries. However, as with all dogs, it is essential to comply with local laws regarding vaccination, electronic chip identification, and liability insurance. It is also important to respect local regulations regarding dog ownership, including the use of a leash and muzzle in certain areas. In general, the Schapendoes is not classified as a dangerous breed, which makes its keeping and adoption easier.
Official recognition
The Dutch Schapendoes is officially recognized by several cynological organizations around the world. In France, it is recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC). In the United States, it is registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) also recognizes the breed internationally. In the Netherlands, the country of origin of the breed, it is recognized by the Raad van Beheer, the official canine organization. These recognitions allow owners to participate in dog shows and working trials, while ensuring that the dogs meet the breed standards.
Pedigrees
Dutch Schapendoes can be registered with various breed clubs and canine registries. In France, the French Club of Dutch Shepherds and Shepherd Dogs from Overseas Territories is the main organization. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC) offer registration for Schapendoes. In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club is the official organization. In the Netherlands, the Schapendoes Club Nederland is the main organization. These clubs provide resources for breeders and owners, organize events, and provide information on available lineages and pedigrees.
Destination and usage
The Dutch Schapendoes is primarily used as a herding dog and companion dog. Thanks to its intelligence and energy, it excels in herding activities, helping to keep and drive sheep. As a companion dog, it is appreciated for its affectionate and playful temperament, making it an excellent companion for families. It also excels in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and flyball, thanks to its agility and desire to please. Its versatility and pleasant character make it suitable for various roles, whether as a worker or as a beloved family member.
Prohibitions
The Dutch Schapendoes is generally not subject to specific bans in countries. However, it is always recommended to check local laws and regulations regarding dog ownership, as they may vary. Some countries or regions may have restrictions on dog breeds considered dangerous, but the Schapendoes is not part of these categories. By complying with local regulations on vaccination, identification, and liability, Schapendoes owners can fully enjoy their company without legal hindrance.
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