Schapendoes
Quick Summary
Intelligent, active herding dogs best suited for experienced owners who can provide exercise and training. Excellent family companions requiring regular grooming and activity.
Contents
Weight Range
26-55 lbs
♂ Male: 26-55 lbs
♀ Female: 26-55 lbs
Height Range
41-51 inches
♂ Male: 16-20"
♀ Female: 16-20"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Dutch shepherds developed these dogs in the 1800s to herd sheep in the Netherlands' challenging terrain
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 16"-20" |
| Female Height | 16"-20" |
| Male Weight | 26-55 lbs |
| Female Weight | 26-55 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price, supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover quality food, grooming supplies, and routine vet care. Consider insurance for potential health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Friendly and intelligent dogs with a strong herding instinct. Display high energy levels and require consistent mental stimulation. Social nature makes them excellent family companions, though they may try to herd children and other pets.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular human interaction and companionship. Generally good with other dogs and pets. Can become anxious if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Schapendoes are distinctive Dutch herding dogs with a shaggy, long-haired coat and expressive eyes. Their medium-sized, well-proportioned frame supports an athletic build ideal for agile movement. Known for their friendly and watchful nature, these dogs combine intelligence with a lively spirit. Their most striking feature is their abundant coat, which forms a natural mane around their face and neck.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent family companion
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Highly trainable
- ✓ Weather-resistant coat
- ✓ Athletic and agile
Cons
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ High exercise needs
- ✗ Can be vocal
- ✗ Strong herding instinct
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Watchful, Lively |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including herding activities, agility training, and brisk walks. Moderate to high intensity level activities help maintain their physical and mental well-being.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for weight management due to their active lifestyle. Consider supplements for coat health.
Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food daily, split into two meals. Diet should support their active lifestyle with adequate protein. Adjust portions based on age, size, and activity level.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to various living spaces but thrives with access to a fenced yard. Ideal for suburban or rural settings with room to run and play. Tolerates different climates well.
Requires moderate living space with access to outdoor areas. Adapts well to suburban homes with fenced yards. Not ideal for apartment living unless given ample exercise opportunities.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in the Netherlands during the 1800s, these hardy shepherds worked alongside Dutch farmers herding sheep. Their unique coat and agile nature evolved to handle the challenging weather and terrain of the Dutch countryside.
Historical Purpose
Dutch shepherds developed these dogs in the 1800s to herd sheep in the Netherlands' challenging terrain. Their agile nature and weather-resistant coat proved invaluable.
Fun Fact
Their distinctive shaggy coat naturally repels water and dirt, a trait developed for working in Dutch weather.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization important to manage herding instincts.