Rare Breed Monday: Kooikerhondje

Image from akc.org, by Ine Dekker.

The Kooikerhondje is a Dutch breed, also known as Dutch Decoy Dog. They stem back to the 1500s, and were traditionally used to drive ducks into a trap where the hunter could easily get them. The hunter was called a Kooiker, the dogs were called the Kooiker's hondjes - Kookier's dogs - and this became the name of the breed.

These dogs are good family dogs, known for being cheerful, friendly, well-behaved, and eager to please their owner. They adapt quickly, changing behavior from quiet to lively as the situation calls for it. They're normally not shy, but they can be selective about who they like and don't like.

Since they are a hunting breed, they love outdoor life and need exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need a daily long walk or jog. Even though they can be happy in an apartment, they prefer a fenced in back-yard. Just like all working dogs, the Kooikerhondje gets bored easily, and they require stimulation. It's much better to give them a task than allow them to make up some form of "work" of their own.

They usually reach a height of 14-16 inches, and can weigh up to 40 lbs. The average life span is 12-14 years.

Today, they're often used as service dogs, and for search and rescue. They also excel at agility and obedience. Kooikers are believed to be ancestors to the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.

~ Maria Sadowski ~