The name Schapendoes translates to Dutch Sheepdog. Like the name also suggests this dog was used to herd sheep.
The name Schapendoes refers to a type of dog. The breed was first shown under the name Domestic Herding Dog in the 1870s and it nearly went extinct during World War II.
The Schapendoes History
As a herding dog, the Schapendoes is lively and active. This breed requires a good bit of daily exercise and they particularly enjoy participating in dog sports like flyball and agility.
Where did the Schapendoes Come From?
This farm dog came from the Netherlands. Farmers selectively bred and adapted the breed to specific jobs and environments. The breed was first recorded as the “Domestic Herding Dog” in the 1870s. Like many other breeds it nearly went extinct during World War II.
What Were They Bred For?
Breeders created the Schapendoes for herding and general farm dog in the Netherlands. It was a local working dog during the old days. Farmers knew this breed in the region for it’s herding abilities as well as its talent for dog sports.
Are They a Pure Breed?
Yes
Schapendoess at a Glance
[table “Schapendoe” not found /]Physical Traits
Schapendoes is a dog of medium size. People first notice the Schapendoes for it’s thick, long coat that covers its ear and eyes. They appear to have a moustache and a beard. The hair is long around the back of it’s legs and tail. Feathering is longer wavy hair. Their colors can very quite a bit. Thay can have mixes of tans, greys, whites and browns.
Breed Standard
FEDERATION CYNOLOGIQUE INTERNATIONALE
Schapendoes Size
Male: 17–20 inches (43–50 cm), Female: 16–19 inches (40–47 cm)
Height measurements are always from the ground to the highest point of a dog’s shoulder blades. The highest point on a dogs shoulder-blades are known as the withers.
Weight
They have the weight of 12-20 kg
Grooming
Schapendoes have thick coats. It’s coat is fine and dense. These coats can be kept in check by weekly brushing. These types of coats with wavy hair can be more difficult to brush. During shedding season they need more brushing. There are several brushes available specifically for brushing dogs with undercoats. Giving them the occassional bath will keep them clean.
Nails
Check their nails to make sure they are not split or cracked and trim as needed.
Ears:
Check their ears to make sure they are not full of debris or wax and clean as needed.
Do They Drool?
No
Best Climate for the Schapendoes
They have a high tolerance of heat and cold.
Temperament
Schapendoes are independent dogs. Because farmers bred these dogs to be easy to train farm dogs, they have a great temperament. They are eager to please. They make great farm dogs. This breed is also intelligent and a great guard dogs for families. The Schapendoes is a positive breed. They love learning through play.
How Easy are They to Train?
The Schapendoes can quickly learn many tasks. However, their intelligence may work against you at times, as they can be cheeky, breaking any rules that are not clearly demarcated if it makes their life easier. Firm training with consistent methods should help to prevent any silliness or disobedience in the breed.
Do They Tolerate Other Pets?
These dogs do tolerate other pets. They are bred to be around other animals on farms and what not and can easily learn which pets are part of the family and which ones are threats.
Are They Good for Families?
Schapendoes is good for families, they are good watchdog in general and they are sporty and playful kind of dog. they love to be with a families and very friendly in children.
Do They Have a Strong Prey Drive?
The breed loves to play and are a cheerful dogs that get along with most everyone. While tolerant of children and other animals, their herding instincts are often strong, and care should be taken that they do not try to round up toddlers!
Are They Social With Other People?
These dogs are social with people once they get to know you. They will more likely bark at whoever approaches but once they recognize people as normal friends or family they are friendly.
Is The Schapendoes Good for New Owners?
This type of Dog is good for new owners. They are very trainalble and easy to please. They have a lot of energy however so they are not the best for apartment living. If you have a lot of space or time to take them out to expend energy this could be a good dog for you.
Health
They are the type of dogs that are healthy in nature, the often experience any health issues but not limited to common health issues.
The Schapendoes Lifespan
With the average lifespan of 12-15 years
Health Issues
They might experience this some and common health issues like HIp dysplasia, ear infection and Progressive Retinal Atrophy. This is a non-painful ocular condition that will lead to the destruction of eye cells over time, resulting in eventual blindness.
Exercise
The Schapendoes is lively and active. This breed requires a good bit of daily exercise and they particularly enjoy participating in dog sports.
