Dogs of the Netherlands: History, Breeds, Sports, and More

Exploring the World of Dogs in the Netherlands: History, Breeds, Sports, and MoreThe Netherlands, a country known for its picturesque canals and vibrant culture, has a deep-rooted love for dogs. From historical working companions to modern-day family pets, dogs have played a significant role in Dutch society. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history of dogs in the Netherlands, explore the first known dogs, highlight the most popular breeds, discuss canine sports (including Quinlent’s sporting competitions), and touch on banned breeds, famous dogs, extinct breeds, and the import/export trends of these beloved animals.

The First Known Dogs in the Netherlands The history of dogs in the Netherlands stretches back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that dogs were present in the region as early as the Neolithic period (circa 5300–2000 BCE). Remains of domesticated dogs have been found in sites like Swifterbant, a prehistoric settlement in what is now the Netherlands. These early dogs, likely descendants of wolves, were used for hunting, guarding, and companionship by early farming communities. Their bones indicate they were small to medium in size, adapted to the tasks of their human partners in a landscape of wetlands and forests.

These ancient canines laid the foundation for the diverse roles dogs would play in Dutch culture, from herding livestock to assisting in hunting and guarding homes.

A Brief History of Dogs in the Netherlands: Dogs have been integral to Dutch life for centuries, shaped by the country’s agricultural and maritime heritage. In the Middle Ages, dogs were bred for specific purposes, such as herding (e.g., Dutch Shepherds) and hunting (e.g., Kooikerhondjes for duck decoying). The Dutch valued dogs for their working abilities, with breeds like the Keeshond serving as barge dogs, guarding boats along the canals. By the 19th century, selective breeding became more formalized, leading to the development of distinct Dutch breeds, many of which are still recognized today.

Kooikerhondjes Keeshond

The establishment of the Dutch Kennel Club (Raad van Beheer) in 1902 marked a turning point, standardizing breeds and promoting responsible breeding practices. Despite challenges like World War II, which nearly led to the extinction of breeds like the Kooikerhondje, dedicated breeders revived these canines, preserving their unique traits. Today, dogs in the Netherlands are cherished as family pets, working animals, and competitors in dog sports, reflecting the country’s ongoing appreciation for canine versatility.

The Most Popular Dog Breed in the Netherlands

While exact rankings can vary, the Labrador Retriever consistently ranks as one of the most popular dog breeds in the Netherlands, mirroring global trends. Its friendly, outgoing nature, intelligence, and adaptability make it a favorite for families, urban dwellers, and those seeking a versatile companion. Labradors are well-suited to the Dutch lifestyle, thriving in both city apartments and rural settings, and their trainability makes them excel in various roles, from service dogs to family pets.

Top 5 Dog Breeds in the Netherlands

Here’s a look at five of the most popular dog breeds in the Netherlands, based on registration data and cultural preferences:

Labrador Retriever: Known for their gentle temperament and versatility, Labradors are beloved for their intelligence and sociability. They excel in dog sports like agility and obedience and are often used as service or therapy dogs. Their medium-to-large size and minimal grooming needs make them ideal for Dutch households.

Dutch Shepherd: A native breed, the Dutch Shepherd is a versatile working dog with a striking brindle coat. Originally bred for herding, they now shine in police work, search and rescue, and dog sports like agility and herding trials. Their loyalty and high energy make them best suited for active owners.

Kooikerhondje: This small, charming breed with a white-and-orange coat has a rich history as a duck decoy dog. Revived from near extinction post-World War II, Kooikerhondjes are agile, intelligent, and excel in obedience and agility competitions. They’re also affectionate family pets.

German Shepherd: Renowned for their intelligence and loyalty, German Shepherds are popular for their roles as police, rescue, and family dogs. Their versatility and trainability make them a top choice for Dutch owners who value a working companion.

Chihuahua: Small but mighty, Chihuahuas are popular in urban areas like Amsterdam due to their compact size and big personalities. They’re ideal for apartment living and require minimal exercise, making them a great fit for city dwellers.

Dog Sports in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a vibrant dog sports scene, reflecting the country’s appreciation for active, intelligent canines. Popular sports include:

Agility: Dogs navigate obstacle courses, testing speed and coordination. Breeds like Dutch Shepherds and Kooikerhondjes excel here.

Obedience: Competitions focus on a dog’s ability to follow commands, with breeds like Border Collies and German Shepherds often leading.

Flyball: A relay race where dogs jump hurdles to retrieve a ball, popular among high-energy breeds like Jack Russell Terriers.Herding Trials: Dutch Shepherds and Stabyhouns showcase their herding instincts in these events.

Lure Coursing: Dogs chase a mechanical lure, appealing to breeds with strong prey drives.

Quinlent Sporting Competitions: Quinlent Staffordshire Bull Terriers, based in Enschede, is a leading force in promoting dog sports for Bull & Terrier breeds through the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Sporting Club Netherlands (SBTSC-NL). Founded by Marco De Kruijk, the club organizes the Dutch Stafford Athletics (DSA), the largest private sporting event for these breeds.

Events include:Track Mill: Tests endurance as dogs run on a treadmill-like device.A-Frame: Challenges strength and agility as dogs climb a steep frame.Lure Coursing: Highlights speed and prey drive. These competitions, held in the Netherlands and affiliated with clubs worldwide, celebrate the athleticism of Staffordshire Bull Terriers, like Quinlent’s Battle Trance and Bring Me to Life, while fostering community among enthusiasts. Quinlent’s focus on health and functionality ensures their dogs thrive in these demanding events. For more, visit quinlent.nl.

Interesting Facts About Dogs in the Netherlands

Barge Dogs: Historically, Keeshonds were known as “barge dogs,” guarding Dutch boats and keeping sailors company on canals. Their fluffy coats and friendly demeanor made them ideal for this role.

Responsible Breeding: The Dutch Kennel Club emphasizes genetic testing and responsible breeding to preserve rare breeds like the Stabyhoun and prevent health issues.

Stabyhoun

Urban Pet Culture: In cities like Amsterdam, small breeds like Chihuahuas and Poodles are popular due to apartment living, while larger breeds thrive in rural areas.

Banned Breeds in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has strict regulations on certain dog breeds due to concerns about aggression or health issues. Notably, the English Bulldog is banned from breeding in the Netherlands (along with Norway) due to health concerns related to brachycephaly, hip dysplasia, and other genetic issues that impact quality of life. This ban, initially enforced in Norway in 2022 and later overturned, reflects ongoing debates about breeding practices for brachycephalic breeds.

Additionally, breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier face restrictions in some Dutch municipalities due to their association with dog fighting and perceived aggression. However, with proper training, these dogs can be loving pets, and bans remain controversial.

A Famous Dog Tale: The Story of Poppy the Staffordshire Bull Terrier One heartwarming true tale from the Netherlands involves Poppy, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier who was reunited with her owner after being missing for eight years. Found 30 miles from her original home by a dog warden, Poppy’s microchip allowed her to be identified and returned to her family. This story, highlighted by Petplan, underscores the importance of microchipping and the enduring bond between dogs and their owners, even after years apart. It’s a testament to the resilience and loyalty of the “Staffy,” a breed often misunderstood but cherished for its affectionate nature.

Extinct Dutch Breeds:

One notable extinct Dutch breed is the Dutch Smoushond, a small terrier-like dog with a wiry coat, once popular in Amsterdam as a companion and ratter in stables. Known for its scruffy appearance and bold personality, the Smoushond thrived in the 19th century but faced decline after failed attempts to revive it in the early 20th century. By the mid-20th century, the breed was considered extinct, though efforts continue to recreate it using similar breeds. Its loss highlights the challenges of preserving rare breeds in changing times.

Most Popular, Imported, and Exported BreedsMost Popular: As mentioned, the Labrador Retriever dominates due to its versatility and family-friendly nature. Other popular breeds include Dutch Shepherds and Kooikerhondjes, especially among those valuing native breeds.

Most Imported: Breeds like the French Bulldog and Chihuahua are frequently imported, driven by their popularity in urban settings. The French Bulldog, in particular, has surged globally, ranking No. 1 in the U.S. in 2022, and its compact size appeals to Dutch city dwellers.

Most Exported: Dutch breeds like the Kooikerhondje and Stabyhoun are exported to countries like the U.S. and Canada, where interest in rare, versatile breeds is growing. The Dutch Shepherd is also exported for its working abilities in police and rescue roles.