Kooikerhondje

also known as Kooiker Dog, Small Dutch Waterfowl Dog, Nederlandse Kooikerhondje

Pros History


The Kooikerhondje is a small breed of dog that originated in the Netherlands in the 16th century. It is named after the Kooikerhondje, a type of hunting dog that was used by hunters to lure ducks into decoys. The breed is also known as the Dutch Decoy Dog and the Kooiker.

The Kooikerhondje has a long and storied history, dating back to the 16th century. It is believed to have descended from a type of hunting dog that was used by Dutch hunters to lure ducks into decoys. The breed was prized for its intelligence, agility, and stamina, as well as its small size and compact build, which made it well-suited for working in close quarters.

Over the centuries, the Kooikerhondje played an important role in Dutch culture and society. It was widely used by hunters and farmers, and it was also popular as a companion and show dog. Despite its popularity, the breed faced numerous challenges over the years, including the threat of extinction during World War II. However, it was eventually able to recover and regain its popularity, thanks in large part to the efforts of dedicated breeders and enthusiasts.

In the 20th century, the Kooikerhondje gained recognition as a breed by several major kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club. It is now widely exhibited at dog shows and other events, and it is also popular as a companion and working dog. Despite its small size, the Kooikerhondje is known for its energy, intelligence, and agility, and it is often described as a lively and energetic breed.

Breed Information


Type

Is Kooikerhondje a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Kooikerhondjes originally used for?

Trapping, Companion

Lifespan

How Long Do Kooikerhondjes Live? What is average life expectancy for a Kooikerhondje? How long can Kooikerhondjes live?

12-14 years

The average Kooikerhondje lifespan is somewhere between 12-14 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Kooikerhondje Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Kooikerhondje?

What is the average height of a Kooikerhondje? How big is a Purebred Kooikerhondje height? Kooikerhondje dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 15-16 inches (38.1 - 40.6 cm) 5.0 inches (12.7 cm) 8.0 inches (20.3 cm) 9.0 inches (22.9 cm)
Female 14-15 inches (35.6 - 38.1 cm) 5.0 inches (12.7 cm) 8.0 inches (20.3 cm) 9.0 inches (22.9 cm)
What is the average weight of a Kooikerhondje? How much should Kooikerhondjes weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 20-24 pounds (9 - 11 kg) 5.0 pounds (2 kg) 9.0 pounds (4 kg) 10.0 pounds (5 kg)
Female 20-24 pounds (9 - 11 kg) 5.0 pounds (2 kg) 9.0 pounds (4 kg) 10.0 pounds (5 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Kooikerhondjes get fat easily?

The Kooikerhondje is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Kooikerhondjes Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the Kooikerhondje is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is a Kooikerhondje personality? What are Kooikerhondje dogs best known for?

Alert
Intelligent
Loving
Territorial
Cheerful
Lively
Going

Shedding Level

Are Kooikerhondjes heavy shedders? How Much Does a Kooikerhondje Shed?

Kooikerhondje dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Kooikerhondje. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Kooikerhondje dog?

Kooikerhondjes are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed, and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, the Kooikerhondje is going to make sure everyone knows about it.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Kooikerhondjes come from?

Netherlands

Ancestry

What are Kooikerhondjes descended from?

Spaniel

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Kooikerhondje breed?

American Canine Registry
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
United Kennel Club
American Rare Breed Association
Foundation Stock Service

Date of Birth

When were Kooikerhondjes first bred? How old is the Kooikerhondje breed?

16th century

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Kooikerhondje?

Sporting

Kooikerhondje Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Kooikerhondje eyes?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Kooikerhondje nose be naturally?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Kooikerhondje coat be naturally?

Red

Coat Length

How long is a Kooikerhondjes coat?

The coat of a Kooikerhondje falls in the medium length category.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Kooikerhondje Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Kooikerhondje?

Straight

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Kooikerhondje have in a litter? How many puppies can a Kooikerhondje have in her first litter?

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Kooikerhondje can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Kooikerhondjes are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Kooikerhondje Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Kooikerhondjes have a lot of health problems?

The Kooikerhondje is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Kooikerhondje?

Von Willebrand's Disease
Kooiker Paralysis
Polymyositis

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Kooikerhondjes?

Distichiasis
Hip Dysplasia
Pateller Luxation

Occasional Diagnoses

Epilepsy
Kidney Disease

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Kooikerhondje breed?

OFA
X-Rays
Physical Examination
Genetic Tests

Kooikerhondje Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Kooikerhondjes have a lot of energy?

Kooikerhondjes are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, this breed may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

Do Kooikerhondjes need socialization? How social are Kooikerhondjes?

Kooikerhondjes have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Kooikerhondjes get?

The Kooikerhondje dog needs significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are also well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Kooikerhondje have? Do Kooikerhondjes sleep a lot?

Kooikerhondjes dogs are tend to sleep less than other breeds, but they still require adequate sleep to maintain good health.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Kooikerhondje drool a lot?

The Kooikerhondje is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Kooikerhondjes tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Do Kooikerhondjes exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Mouthiness

Are Kooikerhondjes mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Kooikerhondje running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Kooikerhondje dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Kooikerhondjes enjoy doing? How do I keep my Kooikerhondje busy?

Fetch, Play, Cuddles, Walk, Run

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Kooikerhondje?

The Kooikerhondje is a breed of dog that is known for its low grooming needs.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Kooikerhondje?

Weekly

Kooikerhondje should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Kooikerhondjes?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Costs


Kooikerhondje Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Kooikerhondje?

Kooikerhondjes has average obedience intelligence. But, they're also independent thinkers. The Kooikerhondje is a breed with an exceptionally high IQ and may get into mischief if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Kooikerhondje dog?

This dog breed is more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. They need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are Kooikerhondje dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Kooikerhondje do well in apartments? Are Kooikerhondjes good indoor dogs?

Kooikerhondjes are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Are Kooikerhondjes good with kids? Are Kooikerhondjes good around children?

Kooikerhondjes are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Are Kooikerhondjes good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Kooikerhondjes good with cats? How friendly Kooikerhondjes are toward cats?

Kooikerhondjes are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,

Dog Friendly

Do Kooikerhondje dogs get along with other dogs? Are Kooikerhondjes OK with other dogs?

Kooikerhondjes are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Kooikerhondje dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Kooikerhondjes friendly with strangers?

Kooikerhondjes are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Kooikerhondjes are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Kooikerhondjes will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Do Kooikerhondjes like to play? Are Kooikerhondjes playful?

Kooikerhondjes are known to be highly playful dog. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting a slightly older Kooikerhondje for a mellower experience.

Trainability

Are Kooikerhondje easily trained?

Kooikerhondje dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.