HEIGHT: females 40-47cm, males 43-50cm
WEIGHT: 15- 20 kg

The Schapendoes is a breed of dog that is native to the Netherlands. It has been referred to as the shaggy sheep dog of Holland. It is also called the Dutch Sheepdog. The Schapendoes is a breed that is high strung and friendly. These are large dogs that have a lot of fur that is shaggy in appearance. They are very welcoming to people in general. This breed is very intelligent and lively. Throughout its history, they have been known as a dog for common people. The Schapendoes has not been overly bred over the years and because of that, they have very little health problems. Sometimes the Schapendoes can be stubborn but they are also independent and brave. This breed has what some have referred to as unkempt and ruffled appearance. At the same time, they make good companions. The Schapendoes has also performed well as a sheepdog. They are cheerful and hardy. This breed gets along well with a family that is rough and active.

They have a lot of energy and at times they can be quite high strung. This breed is easily trained and very good natured. They enjoy working and have strong herding instincts.

photo (c) Mare

photo (c) Uroš Modlic

The Schapendoes is a breed that can be described as fun loving, active, and lively. This dog is very playful. In fact, they will play with children for hours on end. This breed is intelligent and friendly. The Schapendoes is courageous, brave and gentle. They can also be stubborn and independent. The Schapendoes is kind and affectionate with family and other people they know. They are not aggressive and make very good watchdogs, although their guard dog skills are low.

The Schapendoes need a lot of excercies, it can be very peaceful family dog. They are crazy about water, paddling and rolling on wet grass. It can be stubborn, but if we use consistence we can handle them very well. They look a bit untidy, but they still need grooming at least 10-14 days, so their hair doesn't get messy. They get a long great with other dogs and other animals.

photo (c) Polona Železnikar

Their hair is long, curly, rolled up and dry. Their coat can be in any color, but blue (grey) - black is much desired. If you want to have a Schapendoes it is very important that you have a lot of time, that you can play with him and that you let him to discover new paths, roads and scents on daily walks. You will get a happy, hearted dog, without the sign of fear, with magnificent soul and a real clown, who is willing to do anything for a piece of cookie.