The Netherlands has given the world some of the most heart-melting dog breeds, each a little gem, with its personality and charm. The Dutch are a dog-loving nation, just like the Germans have bred German Shepherds, and the British have their long list of doggos. In the same way, the Dutch dog breeds are drawn from similar breeding pools of genetic diversity.
From the loyal Drentse Patrijshon to the smart and sassy Dutch Shepherds, they are living, breathing bundles of love that carry the spirit of rich history and warmth in their paws.
Let’s discuss seven Dutch breeds that are the epitome of loyalty and a thing of wonder.
Dutch Dog Breeds
Let’s take you on a journey through seven beautiful Dutch dog breeds, their origin stories, their temperament, and the little things that make them so lovable.
1. Drentse Patrijshon
Also known as the Dutch Partridge dog, this breed’s roots go all the way back to the 16th century, so they are one of the oldest and popular Dutch dog breeds still around.
Key Traits:
Strong prey drive but oh-so-gentle at home
Loves a constant routine and lots of positive attention
Playful, adaptable, with a little independent nature
Meet the Drentse Patrijshon, or as the locals lovingly call them, “The Drent”. This dog has been winning hearts in the Dutch countryside for nearly four hundred years, as mentioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC). With their gentle eyes and silky feathered tails, these dogs are the epitome of loyalty and grace, and excellent family pets.
Appearance: Medium-sized dogs with a soft, feathery coat, a richly feathered tail
and a smile that melts hearts.
Purpose: Originally bred to help the Dutch hunters with birds and rabbits, these pups are natural at pointing and retrieving.
Personality: The Drent is a gentle and affectionate soul who thrives on love, playtime, and belly rubs. They are the perfect furry friends for families who can give them plenty of attention and cuddles.
2. Bouvier des Flandres
If you love a big-hearted, teddy bear-like dog, the Bouvier des Flandres will steal your heart. Hands down! Just look at them!
Key Traits:
Needs daily play and exercise to stay happy
Naturally protective, always keeping an eye, hence natural watchdogs
Incredibly smart and trainable, perfect for dog sports and even therapy work
Many Bouviers are known for police work and in therapy roles where their loyalty and big hearts shine. With their fluffy coat and soulful eyes, Bouviers are gentle giants who have a history of being hard-working dogs on the Dutch and Belgian farms.
Appearance: Bouviers have a striking appearance as they sport a rugged coat in gold brindle shade and have a bit of rough hair. Their coat gives them a majestic, lion-like look and fulfills their guard dog criteria.
Purpose: These strong pups were born for herding sheep, guarding homes, and even pulling heavy carts of milk jugs.
Personality: Don’t let their tough looks fool you. They are big softies inside. Bouviers are loving, protective, and form deep bonds with their families, hence, the beloved family pets.
3. Frisian Water Dog or Wetterhoun
The name shows this breed loves water and has a water-repellent coat, which means they are always ready for a chilly dip and love swimming.
Key Traits:
Needs physical and mental stimulation to stay out of a strong desire for mischief
Reserved with strangers, but a cuddle bug with family
A rare breed outside the Netherlands, a true gem!
The watterhoun is a rare Dutch treasure with a coat as curly as your favorite plush toy. These water-loving dogs are born adventurers with a heart full of love.
Appearance: Dense curls, expressive eyes, and a body built for the water make them excellent companions outdoors.
Purpose: Initially bred as a hunting dog for waterfowl and protecting homes, they are always ready for a splashy adventure.
Personality: Waterhouns are fiercely loyal and a little independent, but once they bond with you, they are your forever friend.
4. Dutch Shepherd
Dutch Shepherds are a lively breed that shines in agility competitions. They have a natural athletic build with a zest for life and are one of the popular breeds among dog enthusiasts.
Key Traits:
Quick thinking abilities with a heart of gold and a patient nature
Needs an experienced hand to guide them
Often found in roles like police work and search and rescue
The Dutch Shepherd breed is the kind of dog that seems to say, “Let’s do this”. With their great working abilities and lively spirit, they are natural-born herders and loyal protectors. But they are also full of love for their humans.
Appearance: Sleek, strong, and agile with a shimmering silver brindle coat that stands out in any crowd.
Purpose: They have a natural herding instinct, and they excel at herding sheep, guarding the family, and playing fetch. Dutch Shepherds do it all with a twinkle in their eye.
Personality: These pups are brainy, have an affectionate nature, and thrive on challenges. They need a family as active as they are!
5. Dutch Smoushond
The Smoushond is often called the “Dutch Rattler” as they know no fear and rarely get nervous.
Key Traits:
Needs regular exercise and maybe a small game to stay chipper
Sociable and loves being the center of attention
Smart and fun-loving with a touch of independence
Small dog but mighty, the Dutch Smoushond is a bundle of sunshine with a playful and highly trainable personality. Once a favorite among Amsterdam’s streets, this little dog is making a big comeback everywhere as they wag proudly into people’s hearts.
Appearance: Fluffy yellowish coat, playful eyes, and an ever-playful grin… You will fall in love at first sight.
Purpose: They were born to catch rats and provide companionship because it is a tiny protector with a heart of gold and a high energy level.
Personality: This happy-go-lucky small dog loves human interaction, needs daily physical exercise, and thrives in homes where love and playtime are plentiful.
6. Keeshond
Keeshonds are famous for their “smiling” expression, sometimes known as the “Smiling Dutchman”, as per PetMD. It is impossible for anyone not to smile back!
Key Traits:
Needs regular brushing due to the high shedding of their long hair
Thrives in busy and loving households
Eager to please and respond beautifully to a gentle training
With a fuzzy, smiling face and a heart as big as their fluffy coats, the Keeshond is one of the most beloved Dutch dog breeds. Their cheerful and loyal spirit makes them the perfect family dog. They are generally healthy dogs but are prone to diseases like Hip Dysplasia.
Appearance: Plush double coat, fox-like face, and a signature curled tail that wags with glee.
Purpose: Once the guardian of Dutch canal barges, the Keeshond is a born protector and cuddle buddy.
Personality: Keeshonds have a sweet nature, playful spirit, and deep devotion to their families. They are social butterflies who adore kids and get along with other animals.
7. Kooikerhondje
Last but certainly not least is the Kooikerhondje, one of the Netherlands’ oldest breeds and officially recognized by the Dutch Kennel Club.
Key Traits:
Needs exercise and fun challenges to stay happy
Can be shy around strangers, but adores their family
Perfect for active homes that enjoy adventure and laughter
This small dog has a big Dutch legacy, as these little charmers were once used to lure ducks into traps, as mentioned by Purina. But today, they are loved for their mischievous grin and playful antics.
Appearance: Small and elegant, with a silly red-orange coat and a feathered tail.
Purpose: Known as the Dutch Tulip Hound, this breed played a crucial role in the Dutch hunting history.
Personality: Smart, agile, and overflowing with love, they thrive with plenty of playtime.
Final Thoughts
The Netherlands has gifted the world with dog breeds that are living symbols of love, loyalty, and unbreakable bonds. If you want a courageous working dog, or devoted cuddle buddy, or a playful spirit with high intelligence, Dutch dog breeds will welcome you with open paws and wagging tails.
