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Schapendoes - MAIN HUB

Meet the Schapendoes: a shaggy, spirited Dutch herder! Clever and loyal, this high-energy fluffball is a dream companion for active families.

BREED GROUP

Herding Dogs

Country of origin

Netherlands

BREED SIZE

Medium

BREED HEIGHT

16 -

20 IN

41 -

51 cm

BREED WEIGHT

26 -

55 LB

12 -

25 KG

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The Schapendoes, or Dutch Sheepdog, is a spirited herding breed from the Netherlands, known for its intelligence, agility, and friendly temperament. These medium-sized dogs are characterized by a long, shaggy double coat that requires regular grooming. Highly energetic and loyal, they thrive in active households and excel in dog sports like agility. While affectionate with families, their herding instincts may lead to corralling children. Prospective owners should ensure they provide ample daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and maintain this breed’s cheerful, high-spirited nature.
american kennel club (AKC) recognition

No

Breed was recognized in 0.

International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition

Yes

Breed was recognized in 1971.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?

Are Schapendoes good family dogs?

Good

7 out of 10

The Schapendoes is an excellent family dog for active households due to its friendly, loyal, and high-spirited nature. While they are affectionate with their families, their strong herding instincts may lead them to try to corral children, so they require consistent mental and physical engagement.

Good

7 out of 10

Schapendoes are excellent companions for children due to their friendly, playful, and patient nature. Their medium size and sturdy build make them great playmates, though their strong herding instincts may lead them to try to corral children. Supervision is recommended to ensure interactions remain gentle and to manage their high-spirited energy during play.

Fair

7 out of 10

Schapendoes are intelligent but have an independent herding nature. They can be a fair choice for novices who are committed to consistent training.

Average

5 out of 10

Schapendoes can adapt to apartment living if their high exercise needs are met, but they thrive best in homes with a yard.

Low

7 out of 10

A yard is highly recommended for a Schapendoes to accommodate their high energy and herding instincts.

Good

7 out of 10

Schapendoes are social and loyal dogs that can handle being left alone for moderate periods, but they prefer companionship.

Very Good

7 out of 10

The Schapendoes generally coexists well with cats, especially when raised with them from a young age. Their friendly and sociable nature helps them form positive relationships with other household pets. However, because they are a herding breed, they may occasionally try to corral or chase a cat, so introductions should be gradual and supervised.

Easygoing

7 out of 10

Schapendoes are not naturally aggressive and are known for their friendly and cheerful nature.

Moderate

5 out of 10

Schapendoes are high-spirited and athletic dogs that require substantial daily physical and mental stimulation.

1-2 hours a day

4 out of 10

Schapendoes require 1 to 2 hours of daily exercise, such as long walks, hiking, or agility, to prevent boredom.

Average

5 out of 10

Schapendoes have a thick double coat and can be sensitive to heat. Owners should provide shade and avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.

Average

5 out of 10

Schapendoes have a thick double coat and can be sensitive to heat. Owners should provide shade and avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.

Sometimes Restricted

5 out of 10

Schapendoes are rarely subject to breed bans, as they are friendly and medium-sized dogs.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?


Photo
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian Researcher Dog breed specialist
Verified
"Schapendoes are generally healthy, but owners should monitor for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and ensure their long coat is regularly groomed."

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