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Dog Breed

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Nederlandse Kooikerhondje

Origin: Netherlands

Breed Group: Sporting

Physical Characteristics

Size: Small to Medium

Height: Male: 15–17 inches (38–43 cm), Female: 14–16 inches (36–41 cm)

Weight: Male: 20–30 lbs (9–14 kg), Female: 20–30 lbs (9–14 kg)

Coat Type: Medium-length, slightly wavy, water-repellent coat with feathering

Coat Colors: White with orange-red patches; black ear tips (“earrings”) are characteristic

Grooming Needs: Moderate (weekly brushing, more during shedding seasons)

Shedding: Moderate

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Cheerful, sensitive, intelligent, affectionate, alert

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–15 years

Common Health Issues: Patellar luxation, epilepsy, eye disorders, von Willebrand’s disease

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced, high-quality diet for small active breeds

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high – enjoys daily walks, training games, and dog sports

Space Requirements: Adaptable; suitable for homes or apartments with regular activity

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Very intelligent and eager to please; excels with positive reinforcement

Good with Children: Yes, generally sociable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, generally sociable

Good with Other Pets: Yes, with proper introductions

Training: Very intelligent and eager to please; excels with positive reinforcement

Description

The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje (pronounced NAY-der-lahn-suh KOY-ker-hond-yuh) is a lively and affectionate Dutch sporting breed originally used as a decoy dog to lure ducks into traps. Known for their cheerful personality, keen intelligence, and elegant orange-and-white coat, Kooikers are fantastic companions for active families or dog sport enthusiasts.

They are sensitive and emotionally attuned, thriving on positive reinforcement and consistent routines. Their moderate-length coat sheds moderately and benefits from regular brushing to keep it clean and mat-free. They do well in obedience, agility, and rally, and they love structured play and purposeful work.

History

Origin: The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, also known simply as the Kooiker, originated in the Netherlands in the 16th century. It was bred primarily as a working dog to assist hunters in luring ducks into traps called "kooien," which were complex cone-shaped duck decoys on waterways. The breed’s name translates roughly to "little Dutch duck trapper dog," reflecting its specialized role. The Kooikerhondje is believed to descend from spaniel-type dogs brought to the Netherlands by the Spanish during their rule in the 15th century, with influences from various European bird-dogs. Paintings by Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Jan Steen from the 17th century depict dogs very similar to the modern Kooikerhondje, confirming its long-standing presence in Dutch culture.
Development: The breed was traditionally used on Dutch duck decoys to lure waterfowl into traps, a method that became obsolete with the advent of modern hunting techniques. By the early 20th century, the Kooikerhondje had nearly disappeared. Its revival is credited to Baroness van Hardenbroek van Ammerstol in the 1930s and 1940s, who located remaining specimens in rural Friesland and began a breeding program. The first litter of the modern Kooikerhondje was bred in 1942, named “Van Walhalla.” The breed was carefully developed with a focus on preserving its distinctive orange-red and white coat, compact size, and working ability. Judging days and provisional registrations were held from the late 1950s through the 1960s, culminating in official recognition by the Dutch Kennel Club (Raad van Beheer) in 1971.
Recognition: The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje was officially recognized by the Raad van Beheer in the Netherlands on December 20, 1971. It gained international recognition through the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1990. In the United States, the breed was added to the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service in 2004, moved to the Miscellaneous Class in 2015, and achieved full AKC recognition in 2018, becoming the first Dutch breed to receive this honor. The breed is classified in the Sporting Group by the AKC.
Today, the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is valued as an intelligent, agile, and affectionate companion and working dog. It excels in dog sports such as agility and obedience and retains strong hunting instincts. The breed is known for its distinctive orange-red and white coat with black-tipped ears, friendly temperament, and versatility. While still relatively rare outside the Netherlands, the Kooikerhondje is gaining popularity worldwide as a loyal family pet and capable sporting dog. It requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive and is well-suited to active households.

Ideal Owner

Active individuals or families looking for a cheerful, trainable companion