Schapendoes Dog Breed

The Schapendoes is a member of the Herding group in most clubs (but in the American Kennel Club the breed is still part of the Foundation Stock Service). These sheepdogs were originally developed to herd livestock--and though many are still used for that purpose, a number of Schapendoes are active family pets; this athletic breed also competes well in canine sports. Overall, this breed is best suited for being a general farm dog or a lively family companion.

Some Dutch Sheepdog facts: they're medium-sized, averaging 18 inches in height and 40 pounds in weight; they have long, shaggy, double-layered coats; and their strong herding instincts mean they'll often try to chase and control moving objects.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Nederlandse Schapendoes:

The Schapendoes is a breed that's the total package: smart, athletic, friendly, and brave. Add in some independence and a bit of goofiness, and you've got an excellent, well-rounded dog on your hands.

A lot of Dutch Sheepdog information is about the breed's physical skill--for good reason. To be sure, Schapendoes' agility is top-notch, from their years of chasing sheep on Dutch mountainsides. These dogs are incredible jumpers (so owners will definitely need tall, sturdy fences around their yards!), and they have lots of speed and endurance. Their herding experience also makes Schapendoes independent thinkers--which can be both good and bad for their human owners. While these dogs are capable of learning plenty of tasks and tricks, they're also able to learn how to be naughty--like opening doors on their own, for example. Owners are strongly urged to enroll their young Schapendoes in puppy kindergarten to start obedience training early.

As previously mentioned, these dogs are physically gifted, and will need a good bit of daily activity. Schapendoes are best for owners willing to give them plenty of exercise.

Intelligent, sporty, friendly, protective, and independent, the Schapendoes temperament is one of activity, affection, and versatility. These dogs are great companions for kids and other pets--but because of their strong herding instincts, they may try to "control" children's movements. (Owners will need to train this out of the dogs.) They're also quite clever, and will often try to push established boundaries if allowed; Schapendoes are best-behaved if they get training and socialization starting at an early age.

Speaking of training: a Schapendoes is very smart, and normally responds well to it--though the breed does have an independent streak, and may require a few repetitions when learning tasks, tricks, and commands. Positive training methods are best--especially with a few tasty treats as part of the bargain!

The Schapendoes also has some good watchdog skills. Though not a super-frequent barker, this breed will normally sound a vocal alarm when noticing an unknown sight or sound. And a Schapendoes isn't too aggressive, but is bold and protective, and will do its best to neutralize any potential threats like intruders.

Overall, the Schapendoes has excellent health, but a few of these dogs are known to inherit Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), a genetic condition that eventually causes blindness. New owners are urged to ask their breeders if the dog has been screened for PRA; otherwise have a veterinarian do the screening.

As athletic dogs, Schapendoes can also suffer joint issues like hip or knee dysplasia and patellar luxation.

Life expectancy for this breed is 12-15 years.