The Kooikerhondje

Kooikerhondje

Alternative Names: kookier dog, Dutch decoy spaniel, Dutch decoy dog

Country of Origin: The Netherlands

History: The kooikerhondje is an old Dutch breed that is believed to have been developed in the sixteenth century. It was bred as a tolling dog, luring ducks into nets. The breed fell out of use due to a dwindling duck population and was almost extinct by the end of World War II. The kooikerhondje was resurrected by fanciers and thrives in Holland, although the breed is still rare elsewhere in the world.

Physical Description: This is a small dog that is slightly longer that it is tall. It has a broad head with brown, almond shaped eyes; a black nose; and long drop ears. The skull is equal in length to the muzzle. The double coat has a sleek, medium-length outer coat that is straight or slightly wavy, with a white blaze on an orange-red face. The ears are well feathered with black tips, called earrings by fanciers. The long tail is feathered.

Height: 14 to 16 inches

Weight: 20 to 24 pounds

Temperament: The kooikerhondje is friendly and active, although often noisy. It is devoted and affectionate with family but wary of strangers. It is fine with older children.

Activity Level: Moderate to high

Best Owner: It does best with an active owner in a rural of suburban environment.

Special Needs: Positive training, socialization, supervision with children

Possible Health Concerns: cararacts, epilepsy, hereditary necrotizing myelopathy, luxating patellas, von Willebrand’s disease