Kooikerhondje

Size: Small / Medium

Weight: 20 - 24 lbs.

Height: 14" - 16" "

Life Span: 12 - 13 years

Health Problems: Von Willebrand's Disease; cataracts; patella luxation; hereditary necrotizing myelopathy

Origin: Netherlands (1700s / 1900s)

Also Known As: Dutch Decoy Spaniel, Kooiker Dog, Kooiker

Group: Hunting

Category: Companion Dog, Hunting

Exercise Needs

Due to its hunting nature, the Kooikerhondje requires a high level of activity. Long daily walks, runs, romps and play session in a fenced yard are recommended for this breed.

Grooming Needs

Regular brushing is required to keep your Kooikerhondje's shedding under control.

Temperament

This breed is happy, affectionate and self-confident. The Kooikerhondje is loyal to family, but may be wary of strangers. Proper socialization to humans is required early so that the breed will be comfortable around visitors and children. The Kooikerhondje's sensitivity and strong will can make training difficult. This breed requires firmness from its owner in order to learn obedience and manners. This breed is a known "chewer" and becomes bored easily. Because of this unfortunate combination, it's important that owners provide Kooikers with plenty of mental and physical stimuli. If the breed is not busy working, playing or exercising, it will find something else to do -- and that "something" will probably be destructive to your property."

Compatibility with Kids

Kooikers are generally good with kids if introduced to them at a young age. However, the breed does have a tendency to be snappish, and will not tolerate unruly children that poke or play rough.

History

Dating back to the 1700s, this breed nearly reached extinction before being revitalized between WWI and WWII. Despite these efforts, only 25 known dogs survived WWII. These are the ancestors to all of the nearly 500 new Kooiker puppies registered each year. Due to the small gene pool that all these puppies are derived from, hereditary health problems are common. Originally used for duck hunting and retrieving, the Kooiker still is an excellent hunting dog, but has gained popularity as a family pet.