Dutch Smoushond

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Dutch Smoushond (also known as Hollandse Smoushond, Smoushond) is a small dog originating in the Netherlands. Although its exact origin is unknown, its appearance and word of mouth suggests the dog descended from Yellow German Schnauzer. Once very popular among people and referred as 'a Gentleman's companion', the breed nearly became extinct during and after World War II but was revived by the efforts of a Mrs. H.M.Barkman.

Still unknown outside its country of origin, the Dutch Smoushond is a rough coated, lively, active, agile and friendly dog. It is a squarely built dog with strong and well-muscled body. The dog stands between 14 to 16.5 inches and weighs between 20-22 lbs. It has a unique broad and short head with slightly doomed skull and slightly rounded forehead. Moderate length muzzle has full, strong jaws and broad black nose. Large, round and dark eyes have lively and friendly expression. Small and triangular shaped ears are set high and drop. Neck is short and muscular. Fore and hind quarters are moderately angulated. Body gives impression of sturdiness with broad, strong back, deep and broad chest with well sprung ribs and slightly arched loin. Tail is short and undocked. The body is covered with coarse, wiry, harsh and straight coat that comes in all shades of yellow.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI and UKC.

Color

All shades of yellow are permissible with dark straw coloured being most favored. Darker than coat colour may be present on ears, mustache, beard and eyebrows.

Coat

The dog has coarse, wiry, harsh, straight and water-proof coat with sufficient undercoat. Coat on tail is bushy while on head it is wiry. The coat is a typical feature of this breed and gives the dog an untidy and care free look.

Personality

'A Gentleman's Companion', the Dutch Smoushond is indeed loved for its even temperament, obedient and loving to its master and family. Very comfortable with themselves, these dogs are neither obnoxious nor hyperactive. It is very adaptable dog that can fit into any lifestyle. The dog is very cheerful, pleasant and friendly as well as dependent, sensitive and intelligent. It is amusing for the whole family with its good sense of humor. The dog is kind and gentle as well as playful with children and gets along well with other dogs and pets in the family. While it is reserved around strangers, the dog is very lively and active with its family and people it knows. Its alertness makes it a good watchdog. The dog makes a great companion pet for its family as it likes to be with them most of the time. It is a quiet dog and barking is the last method used to attract attention. It will ring an alarm if a stranger approaches near. The Dutch Smoushond is a lovely and very affectionate dog that loves to please its master and family. It makes a wonderful home pet and watchdog.

Care

The shaggy, unkempt coat of the dog is easy to take care. About twice a year, the hair need to be plucked out by hand from all over the body except for head. This can be done through a professional groomer or the owner can learn to do it himself.

Training

The Dutch Smoushond is an eager to please, obedient and intelligent breed which makes the dog easy to train. It is a sensitive breed and will need gentle yet firm and consistent training sessions. It is a fast learner and should not pose any problems for its trainer.

Activity

Daily long walks are necessary for this untiring dog. It can also take part in water sports, agility and fly ball. This dog will need fair amount of physical activity.