Kooikerhondje

Picture this: the Kooikerhondje walks gracefully, its head up, and its white fur glimmers in the sunlight like a star on stage. The breeze gently moves through its medium-length hair, which is either straight or has a slight wave – giving it a laid-back style. And there are those distinctive black-tipped "earrings" that sway just a bit. This is more than just a dog; it’s a true lover of dog fashion. With a confident walk, this small dog stands out, being a bit longer than it is tall.

Quick Info

Size
Medium
Colours
Crisp white with orange to brown patches
Lifespan
12 - 14 years
Height
13 - 16 inches
Type
Sporting
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
19 - 24 pounds
Family
Gun Dog

Personality

Known as “a small white and orange dog with a huge heart,” Kooikerhondjes are sociable and clever, always ready to tackle new challenges. They enjoy learning and completing tasks. However, they may seem distant around unfamiliar people.

History

The Kooikerhondje is a breed of dog that originated in the Netherlands, with a history dating back to the 17th century. These dogs are related to Spaniels and were used as decoys for ducks, which is why they are also known as "Dutch Decoy Spaniels."

Ideal Owner

If you’re looking for a playful buddy to join you in fun outings and thrilling training, the Kooiker dog is an ideal choice. These lively dogs enjoy nothing more than a day at the beach splashing in the water or going for a nice, long stroll. They really shine when they can be active with their owners, making them a great fit for anyone wanting a spirited partner.

Exercise Needs

Kooikerhondjes aren’t suited for those who prefer to lounge around; these dogs require a minimum of an hour of physical activity each day, and even more is better. It’s no shock that they love water, so expect them to jump in whenever they get the chance to splash around.

Space Requirements

The Kooikerhondje doesn’t need a lot of room, but they thrive when they have space to move around. Having different paths to walk, especially those that include good places to swim, keeps these dogs content.

Training

Don’t let fetch hold back your imagination when training your Kooikerhondje. These dogs love a good challenge! They want to make you happy and will have fun with agility courses and learning new commands. Picture yourselves as a perfect pair, joining forces to help them reach their highest potential.

Grooming

These dogs have a coat that repels both water and mud. Brushing them once a week will help keep their fur looking stylish. Make sure to carefully untangle the fur around the ears and tail, as those spots can easily get knotted.

Suitability for Family Life

Kooikerhondjes do best in lively households! These energetic dogs are great for older children who can match their enthusiasm and love to learn new skills side by side.

Did You know?

During the 1950s, a Kooikerhondje was featured on a cigarette card in the Netherlands. The first puppies born in the United States came in 1999. When they were used for decoy work, these dogs needed to be skilled at reading signals. As a result, they are very sensitive to their owner's movements and do well with training that focuses on positive feedback and soft signals.

Similar Breeds

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Need to Know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Extra training required
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys vigorous walks
Medium dog
Some drool
Requires frequent grooming
Quiet dog