Breed Description

Also known as the Kooiker Hound, the Kooikerhondje is a small breed of dog of Dutch origin. They weigh around 20-24 pounds, and stands at an average between 14-16 inches high at the withers.

Coat

The double-coated Kooikerhondje has a water-proof, slightly wavy, and sleek top coat. The under coat, on the other hand, is dense and short. Their tails are bushy, with feathering on the back of their ears, chest, and legs. Breed standards for show rings only accept a white coat with orange or chestnut red patches.

Activity

The Kooikerhondje requires a medium-level of exercise. They love to run about and play. Almost all of these dogs take pleasure in retrieving and swimming. Generally energetic outdoors, they should be taken out on long walks daily to keep them calm indoors.

Temperament

The lively Kooikerhondje is good-natured and attentive. However, they are not advisable for households with small or boisterous children. This breed bonds closely with family, and is timid around strangers. They generally go along well with household pets they have been raised alongside with.

Overview

Originating in Netherlands during the 1500s, the Kooikerhondje were primarily used as decoys in hunting ducks. This affectionate and intelligent dog is known to be lively, but never over-excited. They make a great companion dog, with a size well-suited for household pets.

Care

The double-coated Kooikerhondje requires little grooming. Regular brushing and combing is recommended to prevent matting. Extra care should be given during shedding season to remove dead hairs. Fur between the pads of feet should be trimmed, and ears should always be checked and kept clean.

Training

The Kooikerhondje is generally highly intelligent. But, two issues may arise for trainers of this breed. They tend to be exuberant, and they have the natural inclination to both intensely hate and like some humans and other animals at the same intensity. These two issues can lead to behavioral problems. To be able to work out these potential problems, it is recommended to firmly discipline and reward this breed using the tone of voice. Trainers should always remember that this breed is highly sensitive, so extreme harshness such as shouting, may be too upsetting for them to take. Speaking in a moderate voice with firmness is enough to properly correct this breed.

Good behavior should be rewarded through play and exercise, providing the Kooikerhondje the required burst of energy. Training with exercise is a great idea for this breed, as they thrive on both activity and learning. But, it is important to avoid giving food as a reward for this breed as obesity can be a problem if diet is not regulated.

Character

The affectionate Kooikerhondje makes a great family dog. This mid-sized breed bears a resemblance with that of a Setter or a Spaniel. Highly versatile, alert, and brave, this breed is highly skilled in retrieving and flushing fowl.