Schapendoes

Lively, observant and eager to take part

Dogs resembling the Schapendoes once accompanied sheep flocks in the Netherlands. Their work called for stamina, agility and independent decisions. Numbers had fallen sharply during the Second World War, after which the breed was deliberately rebuilt. Its breed club was founded in 1947 and definitive recognition followed in 1971. This background explains the combination of agility and independent work without predicting identical behaviour in every dog today.

A Schapendoes may respond quickly to movement and sounds. Near a playground or a passing bicycle, it should learn early to stay with its people and let others go by. You can begin somewhere quiet with plenty of distance. Looking towards you or waiting calmly can be rewarded before the situation becomes more demanding.

The long fringe may give the impression of an easy-going dog to cuddle. Even a friendly dog needs rest and the option of withdrawing. An adult should supervise children playing with it, and children should not pull its hair or lie on it. When introducing other pets, calm first meetings and the individual dog’s experiences matter more than expecting a sociable breed to get along automatically with every animal.

Everyday life

A healthy adult Schapendoes may enjoy varied routes and tasks to work out together. For a small searching exercise, you could hide a familiar toy behind a log within easy reach. A short game together can reward finding it. On another walk, you might practise waiting calmly while you sit on a bench. Alongside activity, the dog can learn to relax in your company.

Dog sports offer another possibility. Agility involves following an obstacle course, while scent work teaches a dog to search for particular smells. A class should match the dog’s age, health and level of training. The breed’s natural agility is no reason to introduce high jumps to a young dog. Repeated ball throwing should not become its only activity either.

A dog that enjoys being with its people needs thoughtful preparation for time alone. Brief, relaxed separations can be a starting point. Prolonged barking or restless pacing suggests that the routine is not yet working well. Anyone caring for your dog should also know how to help it settle. Before a longer stay, it is useful to go through familiar routes, cues and grooming together.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

A Schapendoes has fine, long outer hair over a denser undercoat, the shorter layer close to the skin. The coat should be combed through in small layers all the way down. Brushing only the ends is insufficient. After gentle brushing, a wide-toothed comb can help locate remaining tangles. The undercoat needs care too, rather than being pulled out indiscriminately.

Tangles can develop particularly behind the ears, in the armpits and around the hind legs. The transition to adult coat may need much more attention. A knowledgeable breeder or groomer should show you how to work through the hair without painful pulling. Small, loose tangles can often be separated with your fingers. Firm mats, redness or pain need professional help.

Hair should not obscure the dog’s view or rub its eyes. A suitable loose hair tie or careful grooming may help. Trimming close to the eye should be done by someone with the necessary skill. After walks, you should remove twigs and dirt. Hair around the paws and rear needs to stay clean. Toothbrushing with dog toothpaste and nail checks are also part of care. An unusual ear smell or frequent head shaking should prompt a veterinary appointment. Ear-canal hairs should not be plucked without a professional reason.