Child-friendly
Energy level
Experience
Coat care
Shedding
Facts and Information
The Schapendoes is a lively, intelligent, and affectionate herding dog from the Netherlands. Originally bred for herding sheep, this medium-sized breed is known for its long, wavy coat, high energy, and playful nature. The Schapendoes is an excellent family companion, particularly for active households that enjoy outdoor activities.
This breed thrives on mental and physical stimulation and enjoys spending time with its human family. While its herding instincts are still strong, the Schapendoes is also well-suited for dog sports like agility, obedience, and flyball.
Temperament
The Schapendoes is a friendly, intelligent, and social breed that forms strong bonds with its family. It is known for its cheerful and playful personality, making it an excellent companion for children and other pets.
While affectionate and eager to please, the Schapendoes is also independent and strong-willed, which can sometimes make training a challenge. It is not aggressive but can be reserved around strangers, making it a good watchdog.
This breed thrives on companionship and interaction. If left alone for too long, the Schapendoes can become bored and destructive, so it is best suited for families who have the time and energy to engage with their dog daily.
Activity Level
The Schapendoes is a high-energy breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. It was originally bred to work long hours herding sheep, so it has endless stamina and agility.
To keep a Schapendoes happy and healthy, owners should provide:
- Daily long walks or runs
- Off-leash playtime in a secure area
- Mental challenges like puzzle toys or scent work
- Participation in dog sports like agility or herding trials
Without enough activity, the Schapendoes may develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking or chewing. This breed is best suited for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Coat Care
The Schapendoes has a long, dense, and wavy coat, which provides protection from harsh weather conditions. While beautiful, the coat requires regular maintenance to stay clean and free of tangles.
- Brushing: Needs to be brushed at least 2–3 times per week to prevent matting.
- Bathing: Should only be bathed when necessary, as frequent washing can strip the coat of natural oils.
- Shedding: Moderate shedding, but regular grooming helps manage loose hair.
- Trimming: Not required, but some owners choose to trim around the eyes and paws for cleanliness.
Despite its thick coat, the Schapendoes does not require extensive trimming or professional grooming, making it easier to maintain than some other long-haired breeds.
Training
The Schapendoes is a highly intelligent breed, making it easy to train when given the right motivation. However, it also has an independent and sometimes stubborn nature, which means training should be consistent and engaging.
Effective training methods include:
- Positive reinforcement (treats, praise, play)
- Short and varied training sessions to prevent boredom
- Early socialization to expose the dog to different people, animals, and environments
- Advanced training or dog sports to keep the Schapendoes mentally stimulated
Because of its strong herding instincts, the Schapendoes may try to herd small children or other pets. Training can help redirect this natural behavior into appropriate activities.
Size and Weight
The Schapendoes is a medium-sized dog with a light, athletic build that allows it to move quickly and gracefully.
- Height:
- Males: 43–50 cm (17–20 inches)
- Females: 40–47 cm (16–18.5 inches)
- Weight:
- Males & Females: 12–18 kg (26–40 lbs)
Despite its fluffy appearance, the Schapendoes is lightweight and agile, making it well-suited for fast-paced activities like herding and agility sports.
Special Traits of the Breed
- Bouncy Gait – The Schapendoes has a distinctive, springy movement, making it look like it’s bouncing when it runs.
- Highly Expressive Face – Its large, dark eyes and shaggy eyebrows give it a constantly alert and intelligent expression.
- A Natural Jumper – The breed is athletic and loves to jump, making it excellent at agility sports.
- Adaptable – While highly active, the Schapendoes can also relax indoors if given enough exercise.
- Soft and Friendly Personality – Unlike some herding breeds, the Schapendoes is rarely aggressive and is known for being gentle and affectionate.
Inherited Diseases
The Schapendoes is generally a healthy breed, but like all purebred dogs, it can be prone to certain genetic health conditions, including:
- Hip Dysplasia – A common issue in active breeds that affects joint mobility.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – An inherited eye condition that can lead to vision loss.
- Patellar Luxation – A condition where the kneecap temporarily slips out of place.
- Ear Infections – Due to its long coat, the Schapendoes can be prone to ear infections if not properly cleaned.
Routine vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can help maintain the overall health and longevity of the Schapendoes.
Diet
The Schapendoes needs a nutrient-rich diet to support its high energy levels and active lifestyle. A well-balanced diet should include:
- High-quality protein (chicken, beef, fish) to support muscle strength.
- Healthy fats (fish oil, flaxseed) for a shiny coat and joint health.
- Complex carbohydrates (sweet potatoes, brown rice) for sustained energy.
- Joint-supporting nutrients (glucosamine and chondroitin) to prevent mobility issues.
Portion control is important to prevent weight gain, as the breed is naturally lean and agile.
Dog Type
The Schapendoes belongs to the Herding Group and was originally used to herd sheep in the Netherlands. Today, it is still valued as a working dog but is also popular as a family companion due to its affectionate and social nature.
Because of its strong herding instincts and intelligence, the Schapendoes does best in active homes where it has a job to do.
5 Facts About the Schapendoes
- Nicknamed “Dutch Sheepdog” – The breed’s name literally means “Dutch Sheepdog” in English.
- Almost Went Extinct – The breed’s population declined in the early 20th century but was revived by dedicated breeders.
- Loves to Jump – The Schapendoes is a natural jumper, often seen bouncing around when excited.
- Very Vocal – This breed likes to “talk” and uses different barks, whines, and sounds to communicate.
- Excels in Dog Sports – The Schapendoes is a star in agility, obedience, and flyball competitions.
