The Kooikerhondje is also known as Kooiker Hound ,Small Dutch Waterfowl Dog, Dutch Decoy Dog, Kooiker Dog, Kooikerhondje and nicknamed Kooiker. It is an old Dutch dog that was developed in Netherlands (Holland) in 16th century as a tolling dog. This spaniel type breed was widely used in 17th and 18th century by Dutch hunters to lure ducks into traps. The traps were set on ponds that were most visited by ducks and upon hunter's signal, the Kooiker would start tolling (a method to catch duck's attention). This cunning and intelligent dog used its bushy white tail to entice the ducks into the trap. This way, a whole flock of ducks was captured in one tolling.
The Kooiker dogs became almost extinct during WW II but revived by one Baroness van Hardenbroek van Ammerstol single-handedly. She managed to find a female Kooiker which became foundation for revival of this ancient breed.
This magnificent looking dog stands between 14-16 inches and weighs around 20-40 lbs. Slightly wedge-shaped head with broad and slightly rounded skull starts off this breed. The tapering muzzle leads to black nose. Almond shaped eyes are deep brown with friendly and alert expression. Medium size dropped ears hang close to the cheek. The ears come with wispy tips, known as earrings Medium length neck is well muscled. The body is slightly longer than tall, back is level and strong, loin is moderately short but muscular and deep and chest is deep with well sprung ribs. The tail is densely feathered and most often would have a white plume. This breed has water-repellent medium length coat that is slightly wavy but mostly straight and comes with dense undercoat. White is the predominant colour with bright orange or red patches that give this dog a head turning look.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI, UKC, KC(UK), AKC(FSS).
