The Schapendoes is also known as Dutch Sheepdog, Dutch Schapendoes and Nederlandse Schapendoes. It is a medium sized herding and general farm dog that originated in Netherlands. This breed descends from general type of farm dogs that were not a specific breed and were present in large numbers in Drenthe province and Valuwe forest areas in Netherlands. During WW II, these dogs almost became extinct but a few surviving dogs became the progenitors of today's Schapendoes. The dog is related to Bearded Collie, the Puli, the Owczarek Nizinny, the Old English Sheepdog, the Briard, the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog (Cane da pastore Bergamasco) and the Old German Sheepdog (Schafspudel).
This is a medium size dog that stands between 17-20 inches and weighs 26-44 lbs. Referred to as Shaggy Sheepdog of Holland, this is a lightly built, tireless and intelligent dog, most prized for its herding skills and cheerful, friendly disposition.
The head appears larger due to abundant hair than its actual size, skull is flat and muzzle is deep and wide. It has large, round and brown eyes and high-set, moderately long, mobile and hanging ears. Neck is strong and clean. The slightly longer than tall body has deep chest with well sprung ribs, slightly curved topline and muscular loin. Long and well feathered tail is carried hanging down in repose, high and swinging when the dog is trotting, when galloping, tail is stretched out straight and serves as rudder when the dog is jumping. Double coat is long, dense and wavy and can come in all colours.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI, CKC and UKC.
