The Amazing Schapendoes – A Complete Breed Guide (With Pictures)

The Schapendoes, also known as the Dutch Sheepdog, is a medium-sized and shaggy herding dog from the Netherlands. With its distinctive appearance and intelligent nature, the Schapendoes has become a beloved companion for many dog lovers.

Like other European herding dogs, this breed is known for its long, thick, slightly wavy double coat, which comes in a variety of colors. Its large, round eyes and shaggy facial fur give it a charming and expressive look, while its downward-hanging ears and feathered tail add to its overall appeal and classic sheepdog look.

In this guide, we’re going to go through everything from feeding and exercise to grooming and health. After reading this, you’ll know exactly if this beautiful Dutch breed is for you or not!

History of the Schapendoes

The history of the Schapendoes is somewhat vague, but it is believed to have existed in the Netherlands for centuries. It is thought to be related to other longhaired herding breeds such as the Bearded Collie, Puli, English Sheepdog, Briard, Polish lowland sheepdog, and Bergamasco.

The Schapendoes has long been valued as a working dog, assisting shepherds in herding and protecting livestock.

The breed faced near extinction during World War II, but dedicated individuals worked to preserve and revive these amazing dogs. The Nederlandse Schapendoes, a breed club, was founded in 1947, and breeding efforts were initiated to ensure the survival of the Schapendoes.

In 2005, the breed was admitted to the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service, and it has since received recognition in the Herding group.

Temperament of the Schapendoes

The Schapendoes is known for its friendly and happy personality. It is a highly devoted and affectionate breed, forming strong bonds with its family members. While it may be slightly reserved around strangers, it generally gets along well with people and other animals.

This breed has a high energy level and a playful nature, which makes it an excellent choice for active individuals or families.

They’re also highly intelligent dogs that need to have their brains, as well as their bodies, stimulated. Puzzle toys can be a great way for them to learn new skills and have fun.

Do Schapendoes Get Along with Kids and Other Animals?

Yes, Schapendoes dogs are generally good with children and other animals. They have a friendly and gentle nature, making them well-suited for families with kids. However, it is important to supervise interactions between young children and any pup to ensure everyone stays safe and prevent accidental rough play. Proper socialization from a young age can help the Schapendoes develop positive relationships with other animals and ensure harmonious coexistence.

As is the case with other herding pups, these dogs may like to round up smaller children to make sure they’re all in one place. This behavior can get a bit dominating, so it’s. best to train them out of it when they’re young. A herding ball for dogs can be an excellent way for pups to hone their skills in a safe and fun way.

Can Schapendoes Live in Apartments?

While Schapendoes dogs are adaptable to different living situations, they are an active breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Therefore, living in an apartment may not be ideal unless the dog has access to regular outdoor activities.

Schapendoes dogs thrive in environments where they have ample space to run and play. However, with sufficient daily exercise and mental enrichment, they can adapt to apartment living.

Do Schapendoes Bark?

Schapendoes dogs have a moderate tendency to bark. As herding dogs, they have a natural instinct to vocalize and communicate with their surroundings (although they’re not, by any means, one of the loudest barking dogs). Barking can be a way for them to express their needs or alert their owners to potential dangers.

However, excessive barking can become a problem if not properly managed. Early training and socialization can help in teaching the Schapendoes appropriate barking behavior and reducing unnecessary noise.

Appearance of Schapendoes

The Schapendoes has a unique and charming appearance. It is a well-balanced and light-bodied breed, built for agility and speed (although you wouldn’t know it under all of that hair).

The most distinctive feature of the Schapendoes is its long, double coat, which is dense and slightly wavy. The coat can come in various colors, including black, gray, beige, and tricolored. Frizzy or overly curly hair is not acceptable in the breed standard.

The Schapendoes has large, round eyes that are set slightly forward in the head. The eyes are typically brown but should not be too dark. The breed’s ears are high set and hang freely, covered in feathering. The tail is long and also adorned with feathering. Overall, the Schapendoes has a unique and endearing appearance that sets it apart from other breeds – they’re just so cute.

Size of Schapendoes

The Schapendoes is a medium-sized breed, with an average height ranging from 16 to 20 inches and a weight between 26 and 55 pounds. The size can vary slightly depending on the individual dog and its lineage.

Do Schapendoes Shed?

Yes, Schapendoes dogs do shed. They have a medium to high shedding level, especially during seasonal coat changes. Regular grooming and brushing can help manage the shedding and keep the coat in good condition.

The Schapendoes’ long, double coat requires regular maintenance to prevent matting and tangling which can become painful if not dealt with early on. Although grooming may sound like a hassle, it’s actually a great way for you to bond with your pup, especially if you get them used to it from puppyhood.

Grooming a Schapendoes

Grooming a Schapendoes requires regular attention to maintain the health and appearance of its coat. The long, double coat should be brushed at least once or twice a week to remove loose fur and prevent matting.

A pin brush and metal comb are recommended for grooming the Schapendoes’ coat. Pay special attention to areas with feathering, such as the ears and tail.

In addition to regular brushing, the Schapendoes’ facial hair, including the mustache and beard, should be combed through to prevent tangling. The beard and mustache should be washed weekly to keep them clean and free from debris.

Bathing should be done as needed, typically when the dog is shedding heavily or becomes dirty. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are also essential parts of the grooming routine.

Schapendoes Health

The Schapendoes is generally a healthy breed with no known hereditary health issues. However, like all dogs, they may be susceptible to certain health conditions as they age.

It is important to provide regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and check-ups, to ensure the overall health and well-being of your Schapendoes. Responsible breeding practices and proper care can help minimize the risk of health issues in this breed.

Schapendoes Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Schapendoes is between 12 to 15 years. Proper diet, exercise, grooming, and regular veterinary care can contribute to a long and healthy life for your Schapendoes. It is important to provide a loving and nurturing environment for your pet to thrive and live a fulfilling life.

Schapendoes Price

The price of a Schapendoes can vary depending on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s pedigree, and the availability of the breed in your area. On average, you can expect to pay around $1,000 to $1,500 for a Schapendoes puppy from a reputable breeder.

It’s important to do thorough research and choose a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Always stay away from puppy mills or breeders offering much cheaper pooches.

How Much Exercise Does a Schapendoes Need?

The Schapendoes is an energetic breed that requires regular exercise to keep both its body and mind stimulated. Aim to provide at least two hours of diverse exercise per day for your Schapendoes.

This can include activities such as long walks, running, cycling, hiking, and engaging in dog sports like agility or herding trials. Mental stimulation, such as snuffle mats or training sessions, is also essential to keep the Schapendoes mentally sharp and prevent boredom.

What Should You Feed a Schapendoes?

Feeding a high-quality canine diet with balanced nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of your Schapendoes. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate type and amount of food for your dog based on factors such as age, activity level, and any specific dietary needs.

You could also try fresh dog food to get extra veggies and nutrients into their diet. Some of the best brands take individual factors into account and pre-portion meals too.

It is important to provide fresh water at all times and feed your Schapendoes two measured meals per day to maintain a healthy weight.

The Ideal Owner for a Schapendoes

The ideal owner for a Schapendoes is an active individual or family who can provide the necessary exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship that this breed requires.

A Schapendoes thrives in an environment where it can engage in regular physical activities and participate in mental challenges. It is important for the owner to be committed to the grooming needs of the breed and provide proper training and socialization from a young age.

They’d love to be working dogs but they don’t have to be. As long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation you’ll have a happy and friendly pooch.

Adopting a Schapendoes

If you are considering adding a Schapendoes to your family, adoption can be a great option. While the breed is rare (especially outside the Netherlands), there are still opportunities to find Schapendoes dogs in need of a loving home.

Check local animal shelters, rescue groups, and breed-specific rescues to see if a Schapendoes is available for adoption. It is important to do thorough research and ensure that the adoption process is conducted responsibly, prioritizing the welfare of the dog.

Conclusion

The Schapendoes is a unique and charming breed with its distinctive appearance and friendly temperament. This medium-sized herding dog from the Netherlands is known for its long, slightly wavy double coat and intelligent nature.

With proper care, exercise, and socialization, the Schapendoes can be a wonderful companion for individuals or families who are active and committed to providing a loving and nurturing environment. Whether you choose to adopt or buy a Schapendoes, the joy and companionship they bring will be a rewarding experience for any dog lover.