Kookerhondje

Known as the "little Dutch decoy dog," the Kooikerhondje is a charming and smart breed with an interesting background. These diminutive, spaniel-like dogs are Dutch in origin, and their purpose was formerly to trick birds into falling into traps. They are now well-known for their amiable disposition, quick reflexes, and loving disposition, which make them fantastic family pets.

With their striking orange and white coats, Kooikerhondjes are easy to recognize and are prized for their cheerful demeanor. Despite their relatively small size, they are energetic and thrive on physical activity. Whether it"s playing fetch or joining you on a hike, they love to be part of the action.

The Kooikerhondje is becoming more well-known as a devoted and adaptable pet, despite not having as much of a following outside of Europe. They take well to new things quickly, like challenges, and excel in sports requiring agility. The Kooikerhondje may be the ideal choice for anyone seeking a lively, perceptive dog.

Characteristic	Description
Origin	Netherlands
Size	Small to medium
Coat	Long, silky, and white with brown patches
Temperament	Friendly, playful, and affectionate
Exercise needs	Moderate, enjoys walks and playtime
Training	Intelligent and eager to learn
Lifespan	12-14 years

Characteristics of the breed

Kookerhondje, often shortened to koiker, is another name for the Dutch spaniel. This word translates to "duck trap dog" in Dutch.

The breed was developed specifically for the tolling hunt. These canines lure birds into targeted snares without causing harm to them. Ducks are drawn to the Kooikerhondje because of its fluffy white tail. The dogs are clever, crafty, and completely non-aggressive. Instead of killing the bird, they entice it by acting in tandem with him and observing his body language. In particular, this kind of hunting gained popularity in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries.

These days, the breed is employed for guarding territory, hunting waterfowl, and eliminating rodents. Additionally, kookerhondjes are kept as companions. They are great as pet therapists and family dogs. In agility, obedience, freestyle, and other cynological sports, the dog performs admirably.

Parameters	Characteristics
name	kooikerhondje (Netherlands. kooikerhondje)
country	Netherlands
breed group	spaniels
use	hunter, companion
life expectancy	12-14 years
height	35-43 cm
weight	9-11 kg

Pros

Working dogs with outstanding hunting and guard abilities are Dutch spaniels. They can be maintained in the apartment because of their small size and calm, well-balanced nature. The owners’ reviews indicate that they have the following benefits:

• they have an attractive appearance;
• balanced, calm;
• loyal, focused on humans;
• obedient, well -controlled;
• unobtrusive, feel the mood of the owner;
• affectionate, good -natured;
• sociable, playful;
• Smart, easy to study;
• do not bark for trifles;
• unpretentious, do not require serious care.

Cons

Dutch spaniels require a lot of physical work and are independent, much like other hunting dogs. However, they do have a few drawbacks:

• love to dig the earth;
• do not tolerate loneliness and separation from the owner;
• do not like loud sounds;
• can be stubborn.

The Dutch Kooikerhondje is a small, gregarious, active breed that was bred for duck hunting. These dogs, who are well-known for their intelligence and upbeat disposition, are great companions for busy households. Kooikerhondjes, with their unusual orange and white coat, devoted nature, and unique history, are lovable and trainable dogs that do best in situations that keep them mentally and physically active.

The history of origin

Dutch hunters were the ones who introduced the Koikkerhonde breed. Dogs that drive ducks into specialized traps were first mentioned in the sixteenth century. Wilhelm II’s life was spared by a spaniel that awakened it during an enemy attack. The breed has since evolved into a national symbol and asset of the Dutch realm. Cooperators were favored by hunters at first, but by the mid-1900s, the breed was in danger of going extinct.

Baroness van Hardenbroekt, who loved these spaniels, came to her rescue. Additionally, the Dutch Kennel Club and the FCI recognized the breed in 1971 and 1973, respectively. After a standard was created, exhibitions started.

Description of the appearance of the Kooikerhondje

Of all the spaniels, the Kooikerhondje is one of the smallest. These dogs are the only ones smaller than papillons and King Charles spaniels. They share the same characteristics as other members of this breed, including fluffy tails, small, elongated muzzles, hanging ears with feathers, and smooth, medium-length hair.

This little dog has a nearly square body shape and is gorgeous and elegantly built. Although males can grow up to 43 cm in height, average height for all genders is about 40 cm, with weights ranging from 9 to 11 kg.

Head

Skull featuring a prominent occipital protuberance and a broad, flat forehead. The stop is smooth and shallow, but it is clearly visible. Not pointed, the muzzle tapers towards the nose. Big and black earlobes. The grip is soft, but the jaws are strong and have the proper bite. Tight and thin lips.

Medium-sized eyes spaced widely apart. Dark brown in color, expressive, wise, and compassionate in appearance. Little and elevated, the ears hang down on the sides of the head. The thin, delicate ear fabric has a rounded tip and is triangular in shape, with long feathers covering it.

Body

There are no folds or dewlap, the neck is medium in length, and the nape is not prominent. The body is muscular and slender. The oval-shaped, deep chest sticks out slightly at the front. Croup is rounded, back straight. Long, low-set tail with long feathers. carried either horizontally lowered or raised.

Limbs

The limbs are parallel, straight, and relatively thin. Long thighs and powerful hocks. The round, compact paws have webbing in between the toes. Wide stride, free, elegant, and agile movements.

Coat and color

Double coat with a medium length. Water-repellent qualities and softness characterize the thick undercoat. The outer hair can be straight or slightly wavy, and it is shiny and smooth. particularly long hair on the chest, thighs, ears, and tail; short hair on the head and front of the legs.

White with reddish-pink hues. The muzzle needs to have a white stripe. On the sides, back, and around the eyes and ears are red spots on the head. The tail should be a perfect white color, and the ears should have long black hairs on the tips that are referred to as "earrings."

The description of the appearance is enhanced by photos:

Character and education

Dutch Spaniels are devoted, clinging to their owner and finding it difficult to be apart from him. They require attention and are gregarious. Your pet will become ill if you leave it alone too often. Although they dislike babies, Koikerhondjes get along well with kids because they don’t put up with rudeness or loudness. The dog will become a teen’s best friend if they are raised next to each other.

These dogs are loving and enjoy interacting physically. They make an effort to stay close to the owner at all times without being bothersome; they pick up on the owner’s mood and adjust accordingly. They want affection, recognition, and praise. They then make an effort to please the owner and obey all orders.

Koikerhondjes possess a strong sense of territoriality. They’re not very big, but they work well as guards. This dog will not allow anybody to enter the exterior of the property and will bark to alert the owner to any problems. Despite not being aggressive at all, they do not trust strangers.

Koikerhondjes are characterized by the following qualities:

• cheerful;
• loyal;
• playful;
• friendly;
• balanced;
• obedient;
• affectionate;
• playful;
• positive;
• sociable;
• sensitive.

Dutch Spaniels are easy to train, intelligent, and quick-witted. They pick up commands and behavioral guidelines fast, are capable of learning new tricks, and obey every member of the family. Beginner dog breeders should consider this breed.

It’s critical to maintain composure and combine gentleness and persistence when training. Because Kooikerhondjes are extremely touchy and sensitive, you cannot yell at them or punish them frequently. Praise and affection, along with treats, will work best as an incentive for them.

Although kookerhondjes are highly active, they can easily adjust to apartment living. They are compliant and quiet, they know how to behave and do not misbehave. However, you must take the dog for two or three daily walks in order to get such behavior. It will be peaceful at home if you give it the chance to run around. Playing with a ball and a stick or exercising on dog playgrounds is recommended during walks.

There should be an insulated booth when kept in a private residence with a plot. This dog cannot have its freedom of movement restricted or put on a leash. Since kookerhondjes cannot stand being alone, you must give them permission to enter the house.

These dogs are simple-minded, and the wool is self-cleaning. It is sufficient to bathe the pet two to three times a year because it does not retain dirt. Following walks, you should clean the paws, trim any sticks or debris from the fur, and examine the ears. During shedding, you can comb once a week instead of every day. Maintaining the hygiene of the teeth, ears, and eyes is also crucial.

Nutrition

Kookerhondjes tend to gain weight because they are voracious eaters. The quantity and caloric content of your diet must be strictly regulated. Determine the serving based on your body weight (20 g per kilogram). It is preferable to select grain-free holistic food or food specifically made for spaniels and retrievers. Because of their delicate gums, these dogs should always be fed wet food.

60% of the diet should be made up of meat, offal, and other high-protein foods when feeding naturally. Cereals, veggies, cottage cheese, and kefir make up the remainder.

Health

This breed’s members typically live 12–14 years. They are vulnerable to the following illnesses:

• cataracts;
• von Willebrand disease;
• otitis;
• epilepsy;
• kidney disease;
• joint dysplasia;
• digestive disorder;
• obesity.

How to buy a Kooikerhondje puppy

This breed of dog is mostly found in Europe. In particular, the Netherlands has a large number of nurseries. Going there to purchase a purebred puppy is preferable. Purebred nurseries can also be found in Moscow and St. Petersburg, Russia. Thirty to sixty thousand rubles buys a puppy.

Video

A fascinating breed-related video:

Kooikerhondje in a video. characteristics of the breed, maintenance

The Kooikerhondje is a sturdy, small dog that has won over many people’s hearts. Originally bred for duck hunting in the Netherlands, this breed is well-known for its upbeat and energetic personality. It is also an agile hunter and devoted companion. Kooikerhondjes have eye-catching, affectionate coats that contrast with their striking orange-red and white coats.

Even though they can be a pleasure to be around, these dogs do need early socialization and appropriate training. They do best under patient and consistent ownership due to their independent and intelligent nature. The Kooikerhondje is a wonderful dog breed for families searching for a loving, playful companion, but it’s important to give them enough exercise and mental stimulation.

The Kooikerhondje has evolved from a working dog to a cherished family pet in the modern era, and their appeal is only increasing. With the correct upkeep and attention, the Kooikerhondje can become a devoted family member or a companion for your outdoor adventures.

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