ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISKooikerhondje
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog kooikerhondje!
Here, you will find all the useful information about kooikerhondje. 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 Kooikerhondje, also known as the Dutch Decoy Dog, is a medium-sized Dutch breed with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. This breed is the result of a crossbreeding between Spaniels imported to the Netherlands by the Spanish in the 15th century and local dogs. The Kooikerhondje was primarily used for hunting, where it excels, particularly in waterfowl hunting.
Its name is derived from the trapping technique called "kooiker" in Dutch, used by hunters to lure ducks into canals ending in a cage. The word "chien" in Dutch is pronounced "hondjes," and the combination of the two words gave rise to this particular breed. More recently, the Kooikerhondje faced near extinction between the two World Wars, with an estimated population of only around thirty individuals at the time.
This breed was officially recognized by the International Canine Federation on January 31, 1990. Since 2012, there has been a significant increase in the global population of Kooikerhondjes, especially in the United States, France, and the United Kingdom.
The Kooikerhondje is distinguished by its harmonious, homogeneous, and elegant morphology. It is a medium-sized dog, slightly longer than tall, with a rectangular body. Its features resemble those of a Spaniel. This breed is renowned for its agility, vigor, and apparent delicacy, although it is, in reality, robust and incredibly enduring.
Its back is straight and broad, and its long tail harmoniously extends its streamlined appearance. The head is held high, with a slender neck, giving it a certain presence. The skull is of good width and rounded, with a slight stop. Its triangular ears, wide and falling on the cheeks, have long black hairs at the tips, a highly sought-after characteristic of this breed.
The Kooikerhondje has a medium-length coat, straight or slightly wavy, covering its body uniformly. Its white coat with red-orange markings conforms to breed standards.
Regarding its temperament, this Dutch waterfowl hunting dog is extremely affectionate towards its family. It is naturally cheerful and peaceful, making it a delightful companion for daily life. It appreciates a calm environment and remains close to its owner without being intrusive in activities.
Balanced and attentive to its surroundings, it avoids conflicts and noisy environments. It prefers a peaceful life, making it an ideal companion for the elderly. While not aggressive towards its peers, it generally does not seek contact with other animals. Coexistence with cats or smaller animals may be challenging due to its strong hunting instinct, unless it has been raised with them from a young age.
Despite its calm and unassuming appearance, the Kooikerhondje is intelligent and energetic. It requires mental stimulation and daily walks to thrive. Gentle and loyal, it is a wonderful companion who will appreciate your presence, shared sports activities, and its peaceful surroundings.
In adulthood, males typically measure between 38 to 42 cm (15" to 16.5") at the withers and weigh between 10 to 13 kg (22 to 28.6 lbs), while females measure between 36 to 40 cm (14.2" to 15.7") at the withers and weigh between 9 to 12 kg (19.8 to 22.4 lbs).
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Origins
The Kooikerhondje, also known as the Dutch decoy dog, originates from the Netherlands. This ancient breed was developed to work in "Eendenkooi" or duck traps, where the Kooikerhondje lured ducks into nets. Used by hunters since the 17th century, this dog is characterized by its orange and white coat and elegant appearance. It has become an iconic figure in Dutch water landscapes and a beloved companion.
History
The history of the Kooikerhondje dates back to the 17th century in the Netherlands, where it was mainly used for duck hunting in duck traps called "Eendenkooi". This breed had almost disappeared after World War II, but thanks to the efforts of Baroness van Hardenbroek van Ammerstol, it was saved and redeveloped from the 1940s. Today, the Kooikerhondje is internationally recognized and appreciated not only for its hunting skills but also as a companion dog thanks to its gentle and playful nature.
Standard
The standard of the Kooikerhondje breed describes a medium-sized, well-proportioned and elegant dog. Males measure between 35 and 40 cm at the withers, while females measure between 32 and 38 cm. Their weight generally ranges from 9 to 11 kg. The coat is medium-length, smooth or slightly wavy, with a white base color and well-defined orange-red markings. The head is expressive with dark almond-shaped eyes and dropped ears with black tips. The tail is well furnished with hair and carried cheerfully.
Physical characteristics
The Kooikerhondje is a medium-sized, elegant and well-proportioned dog. Its medium-length coat, white with orange-red spots, is smooth or slightly wavy. Its almond-shaped eyes, dark and expressive, reveal great intelligence and liveliness. The floppy ears with black tips add to its distinctive charm. The tail is well covered with hair and carried jauntily, contributing to its elegant appearance. Its harmonious and athletic silhouette allows it to be agile and fast, essential qualities for its role as a hunter.
Character
The Kooikerhondje is known for its gentle, playful and intelligent nature. Loyal and affectionate with its family, it is also very sociable and gets along well with children and other animals. This energetic and lively dog requires a lot of mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom. It is generally wary of strangers, making it a good watchdog. The Kooikerhondje is also known for its determination and independence, requiring consistent and patient training from a young age.
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of the Kooikerhondje is generally 12 to 15 years. This longevity reflects the robustness of the breed and its overall good health. To maximize its lifespan, it is essential to provide a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate veterinary care. While the Kooikerhondje is generally healthy, regular veterinary checks help prevent and detect potential health problems early, ensuring a long and happy life for this faithful companion.
Exercise and activity needs
The Kooikerhondje is an energetic breed that requires a lot of exercise and activities to stay healthy and happy. This intelligent dog enjoys daily walks, interactive games, and canine sports like agility and flyball. Outdoor play sessions are also important to satisfy its need for mental and physical stimulation. Without adequate exercise, the Kooikerhondje can become bored and develop destructive behaviors. It is therefore crucial to provide it with a stimulating and active environment.
Recommended diet
The diet of the Kooikerhondje must be balanced and adapted to its level of activity and size. A high quality, protein-rich food is essential to maintain its muscle and energy. Portions should be controlled to avoid overweight. It is recommended to divide meals into two daily portions for better digestion. Hydration is also crucial, especially after exercise sessions. Dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can be beneficial for the health of its skin and coat.
Training and obedience
The Kooikerhondje, intelligent and eager to please, is generally easy to train and teach. It responds well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and praise. Early socialization is crucial to prevent fearful or aggressive behaviors. Training sessions should be short, varied, and fun to maintain its interest. Consistent and patient education will result in a well-balanced, obedient dog who is happy to participate in family activities.
Behavior with children
The Kooikerhondje is an excellent companion for children thanks to its gentle, playful, and protective character. It is generally patient and tolerant, making it well-suited for families with young children. Its energy and enthusiasm for play make it an ideal playmate. However, as with all breeds, it is important to supervise interactions between dogs and young children to ensure everyone's safety and teach children to respect the dog. Early socialization helps to develop a harmonious relationship.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The Kooikerhondje is generally sociable and gets along well with other pets, especially if socialized from a young age. It can coexist harmoniously with other dogs and even with cats, as long as introductions are done gradually and positively. Its friendly and non-aggressive temperament contributes to good cohabitation. However, it is always recommended to monitor the first interactions to ensure that all animals adapt well to each other.
Grooming needs
The Kooikerhondje has a medium-length coat that requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Weekly brushing is essential to remove dead hair and prevent knots. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage hair loss. Baths can be occasional unless the dog is particularly dirty. It is also important to regularly check and clean its ears, trim its nails, and monitor its dental hygiene to prevent health problems.
Health
The Kooikerhondje is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, it can be prone to certain health conditions. The most common problems include hip dysplasia, heart diseases, and some hereditary diseases like progressive retinal atrophy. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise are essential to maintain its good health. Preventing internal and external parasites is also crucial for its well-being. By taking care of these aspects, the Kooikerhondje can live a long and healthy life.
Average price
The average price of a Kooikerhondje puppy varies depending on the breeder, lineage, and location. In general, a quality puppy can cost between 1000 and 2000 euros, or approximately 1100 to 2200 dollars. Puppies from champion bloodlines or with prestigious pedigrees can cost more. It is crucial to choose a reputable and responsible breeder to ensure the puppy's health and well-being. Costs may include initial vaccinations, health checks, and sometimes necessary equipment.
Expenses
Annual expenses for a Kooikerhondje include food, veterinary care, grooming products, and accessories. On average, these costs can range between 800 and 1200 euros per year, or approximately 900 to 1300 dollars. Costs may fluctuate depending on the quality of products and the specific needs of the dog. Additional fees may include training classes, sports activities, or unforeseen veterinary care. It is important to budget adequately to ensure a comfortable and healthy life for your companion.
Name ideas
For a Kooikerhondje, names reflecting its joyful nature and Dutch heritage may be appropriate. "Tulip" recalls the famous tulips of the Netherlands. "Rembrandt" honors the great Dutch painter, perfect for an elegant dog. "Dutch" is a simple and direct nod to its origins. "Polder" evokes Dutch landscapes. "Windy" may bring to mind windmills. "Amber" is a soft and warm color. "Blaze" for its energy. "Luna" for its gentleness. "Zephyr" for its lightness and speed. "Nova" for its bright new presence in the family.
Legislation and regulation
The Kooikerhondje is not subject to any specific restrictions in most countries. However, it is essential to check local regulations regarding dog breeds, mandatory vaccinations, and necessary registrations. Generally, this breed is well accepted as a pet and does not have specific restrictions. It is nonetheless important to comply with local laws regarding responsible dog ownership to avoid any legal issues.
Official recognition
The Kooikerhondje is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under group 8, section 2 (retriever dogs). It is also recognized by various international canine registries, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club (KC) in the UK. In the Netherlands, the official breed club is the "Vereniging Het Nederlandse Kooikerhondje," which strives to promote and preserve the breed. This official recognition ensures that the dogs meet strict standards for health and physical characteristics.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees for the Kooikerhondje are available from breed clubs and official registries such as the FCI and national associations. These pedigrees provide detailed information about the dog's lineage, including ancestors, champion titles, and health test results. Owning a dog with a recognized pedigree not only ensures traceability of the bloodlines but also a guarantee of quality and compliance with the breed standards.
Destination and usage
The Kooikerhondje, originally developed for duck hunting, is now appreciated for its hunting skills and loyalty as a companion dog. Thanks to its agility and intelligence, it also excels in dog sports such as agility and obedience. In addition to its hunting talents, it has become an excellent family dog, appreciated for its gentle and playful nature. Its sociable and adaptable nature makes it an ideal companion for active families looking for an energetic and affectionate dog.
Prohibitions
Currently, the Kooikerhondje is not subject to any specific restrictions in countries where it is recognized. However, it is always recommended to check local regulations regarding dog ownership, as some jurisdictions may have specific restrictions regarding certain hunting breeds. In general, this breed is well accepted and appreciated for its versatile qualities and affectionate nature. It is essential to comply with local laws to avoid any legal issues.
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