Schapendoes
The Schapendoes is a high-energy herding dog wrapped in a deceptively shaggy, carefree exterior. These dogs are athletic and remarkably springy — they can clear fences and obstacles that seem far too tall for their size, a trait that prospective owners must take seriously when planning containment. Schapendoes are deeply bonded to their families and thrive on involvement in daily activities; they are not dogs that can be left in the backyard and expected to entertain themselves. Their intelligence and eagerness to work make them strong candidates for agility, flyball, and herding trials, but that same intelligence means they will invent their own jobs if not given direction — and those self-assigned tasks rarely align with what their owners want. Socialization is critical, as under-socialized Schapendoes can become timid or reactive. They are generally good with children and other dogs, enjoying rough-and-tumble play, but their herding instinct may manifest as chasing and nipping. The long, thick coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, especially behind the ears and in the leg furnishings. Apartment living is possible with dedicated daily exercise but not recommended for first-time owners, as their combination of energy, intelligence, and sensitivity requires someone who understands positive training methods and can provide consistent mental enrichment.
History
The Schapendoes served as a versatile farm dog across the Dutch provinces of Drenthe and Veluwe, herding sheep with enthusiasm and agility. The breed nearly vanished during World War II, but Dutch cynologist P.M.C. Toepoel began a reconstruction program in the 1940s, locating surviving dogs and establishing a breeding registry. The Dutch Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1952, and the FCI followed in 1971. The breed remains rare outside the Netherlands, with most of the population concentrated in Western Europe.
Characteristics
Compatibility
Care Guide
The coat needs thorough brushing two to three times per week to prevent matting, with extra attention to the areas behind the ears, armpits, and between the toes. Schapendoes require at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise, ideally combining running with mentally stimulating activities like agility or nose work. Training must be positive and varied — their intelligence means they bore with repetitive drills and may start improvising if sessions drag on. Fencing should be at least 1.8 meters high, as their legendary jumping ability makes standard fences inadequate. Early and ongoing socialization with diverse people, animals, and environments is essential to develop the confident temperament the breed is known for.
Common Health Issues
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)An inherited degenerative eye disease causing gradual vision loss beginning with night blindness and progressing to total blindness. DNA testing is available for the breed-specific variant, and all breeding stock should be tested before mating.
- Hip DysplasiaAbnormal development of the hip joint leading to arthritis, pain, and reduced mobility. Screening radiographs should be performed before breeding; keeping growing puppies lean and avoiding high-impact exercise on hard surfaces helps reduce severity.
- HyperuricosuriaA metabolic condition causing elevated uric acid levels in the urine, leading to the formation of urate bladder and kidney stones. Affected dogs benefit from increased water intake, a low-purine diet, and regular urinalysis monitoring.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)Degeneration or herniation of spinal discs causing pain, nerve damage, and in severe cases, paralysis. Symptoms include reluctance to jump, hunched posture, and crying out when picked up; early intervention with rest or surgery often improves outcomes.