Dutch Smoushond Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you considering getting a Dutch Smoushond as your new furry companion? This breed, also known as the Dutch Ratter, is a small yet sturdy dog that has been a beloved pet in the Netherlands for centuries. With their friendly and loyal personalities, they make excellent family pets and are great for first-time dog owners. However, before making the decision to bring a Dutch Smoushond into your home, it’s important to understand their unique characteristics and needs. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about this delightful breed, from their history to their temperament, so you can make an informed decision about whether they are the right pet for you.

Breed Category: Terrier
Country of Origin: Netherlands
Average Size:35-43 cm
Average Weight:8-10 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:Moderate to high

History and Origin

The Dutch Smoushond, also known as the Dutch Ratter, is a small breed of dog that originated in the Netherlands. The breed was developed in the 19th century to serve as a rat catcher in the streets of Amsterdam. The name “Smoushond” comes from the Dutch word “smous,” which means “rascal” or “street urchin.” The breed was popular among the working class and was often seen accompanying their owners on their daily tasks.

The Dutch Smoushond is believed to be a cross between the Schnauzer and the Affenpinscher. The breed was recognized by the Dutch Kennel Club in 1905 and was later recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1971. However, the breed’s popularity declined after World War II, and it was on the verge of extinction.

In the 1970s, a group of breed enthusiasts worked to revive the Dutch Smoushond. They searched for dogs that still had the characteristics of the original breed and began breeding them. The breed was officially recognized by the FCI in 1980, and since then, its popularity has slowly increased. Today, the Dutch Smoushond is still a rare breed, but it is gaining popularity among dog lovers.

The Dutch Smoushond is a small, sturdy dog with a shaggy coat that is usually yellow or brown. The breed is known for its friendly and affectionate nature, making it an excellent companion dog. The Dutch Smoushond is also intelligent and easy to train, making it a good choice for first-time dog owners.

The breed’s history as a rat catcher has given it a strong prey drive, and it may chase small animals if not properly trained. The Dutch Smoushond is also an active breed and requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

In conclusion, the Dutch Smoushond is a unique breed with a fascinating history. Its origins as a rat catcher in the streets of Amsterdam have given it a strong work ethic and a friendly, affectionate nature. While the breed was on the verge of extinction, a group of dedicated enthusiasts worked to revive it, and today, it is slowly gaining popularity. The Dutch Smoushond is an excellent choice for those looking for a small

Size and Breed Category

The Dutch Smoushond is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originated in the Netherlands. They are classified as a Spitz-type dog and are known for their distinctive shaggy coat. The breed typically weighs between 8-10 kg and stands at a height of 35-43 cm at the shoulder. They have a sturdy and muscular build, with a broad chest and strong legs. The Dutch Smoushond has a square-shaped head with a short muzzle and dark, almond-shaped eyes. Their ears are small and triangular, and they have a curly tail that is carried high. Overall, the Dutch Smoushond is a well-proportioned and athletic breed that is both agile and energetic.

The Dutch Smoushond is a rare breed that is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. They are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners, and they make excellent family pets. Despite their small size, the Dutch Smoushond is a confident and fearless breed that is not easily intimidated. They are known for their playful and lively personalities, and they enjoy being active and engaging in outdoor activities. Overall, the Dutch Smoushond is a charming and delightful breed that is sure to win the hearts of anyone who meets them.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Dutch Smoushond is typically medium in length, with a slightly rough texture. The fur is dense and provides good insulation, making it suitable for colder climates. The fur on the head and ears is shorter and smoother, while the fur on the body is longer and coarser. The fur can come in a range of colours, including shades of yellow, brown, and grey. The most common colour is mustard yellow, which can range from a pale cream to a deep golden hue. The fur may also have darker shading on the ears, tail, and back. Overall, the fur of the Dutch Smoushond is an important characteristic of the breed, providing both protection and aesthetic appeal.

The colour of the Dutch Smoushond’s fur is an important aspect of the breed’s appearance. The breed standard allows for a range of colours, but the most common is mustard yellow. This colour is often described as “pepper and salt” due to the darker shading on the ears, tail, and back. Other acceptable colours include shades of brown and grey, but these are less common. The fur may also have white markings on the chest and feet, adding to the breed’s distinctive appearance. Overall, the colour of the Dutch Smoushond’s fur is an important factor in the breed’s recognition and popularity.

Termperament and Trainability

The Dutch Smoushond is a breed that is known for its lively and energetic temperament. They are highly social dogs that love to be around people and other animals. They are also very playful and enjoy engaging in activities that involve physical exercise. Due to their high energy levels, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also very intelligent dogs that are quick to learn new things. This makes them highly trainable and they excel in obedience training and agility competitions. However, they can be stubborn at times and require a firm and consistent approach to training. Overall, the Dutch Smoushond is a fun-loving and intelligent breed that makes a great companion for active families.

The Dutch Smoushond is a breed that is known for its loyalty and affection towards its owners. They are very protective of their family and will go to great lengths to keep them safe. They are also very alert and make excellent watchdogs. However, they are not aggressive dogs and will only bark to alert their owners of any potential danger. They are also very adaptable dogs that can thrive in both urban and rural environments. They are not high maintenance dogs and require minimal grooming. Their coat is wiry and dense, which provides them with protection from the elements. Overall, the Dutch Smoushond is a versatile and loyal breed that makes a great addition to any family.

Known Health Conditions

The Dutch Smoushond is a breed of dog that is known to be prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that affect this breed is hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. In severe cases, hip dysplasia can even cause lameness. To prevent this condition, it is important to ensure that the Dutch Smoushond is not over-exercised as a puppy and that they maintain a healthy weight throughout their life. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can also help to catch any signs of hip dysplasia early on.

Another health condition that the Dutch Smoushond is prone to is eye problems. This breed is particularly susceptible to cataracts, which can cause cloudiness and vision loss in the affected eye. Other eye conditions that may affect the Dutch Smoushond include progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma. Regular eye exams with a veterinarian can help to catch these conditions early on and prevent them from progressing. It is also important to keep the Dutch Smoushond’s eyes clean and free from debris to reduce the risk of infection.

Openness to Strangers

The Dutch Smoushond is a friendly and sociable dog that is known for its openness to strangers. This breed is always eager to meet new people and make new friends, which makes them a popular choice for families and individuals who enjoy having guests over. They are not shy or timid around strangers, and they will often approach them with a wagging tail and a friendly demeanor. This makes them an excellent companion for those who enjoy socializing and meeting new people.

In addition to their friendly nature, the Dutch Smoushond is also a very loyal and affectionate breed. They are known for their love of their owners and their willingness to please. They are always eager to be by their owner’s side and will often follow them around the house or yard. This loyalty and affection extends to strangers as well, as they are always happy to meet new people and make new friends. Overall, the Dutch Smoushond is a wonderful breed that is known for its friendly and sociable nature, making them a great choice for those who enjoy spending time with others.

Playfulness Level

The Dutch Smoushond is a highly playful breed of dog that loves to engage in various activities. They are known for their energetic and lively nature, which makes them an excellent companion for families with children. These dogs are always up for a game of fetch or a run in the park, and they thrive on human interaction. Their playful nature also makes them great at learning new tricks and commands, as they are always eager to please their owners. Overall, the Dutch Smoushond is a fun-loving and lively breed that brings joy and excitement to any household.

Despite their small size, the Dutch Smoushond is a highly active breed that requires plenty of exercise and playtime. They love to explore their surroundings and are always on the lookout for new adventures. This breed is also known for their love of water, and they enjoy swimming and playing in the pool or at the beach. Their playful nature makes them an excellent choice for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and engaging in physical activities. With their boundless energy and enthusiasm, the Dutch Smoushond is sure to keep their owners entertained and on their toes.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

The Dutch Smoushond is a friendly and affectionate dog that can make a great pet for children. With their playful and energetic nature, they are always up for a game or a walk. They are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners, making them a great companion for families. Additionally, they are intelligent and easy to train, which can make them a good choice for families with children who want to be involved in their pet’s training. Overall, the Dutch Smoushond can be a great addition to a family with children who are looking for a loyal and playful pet.

Exercise Needs

The Dutch Smoushond is a highly energetic and active breed that requires a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. With an average weight of 9-10 kg, these dogs are well-suited for a variety of activities, including running, hiking, and agility training. They have a high level of endurance and can easily keep up with their owners on long walks or runs. It is recommended that they receive at least 60-90 minutes of exercise per day, which can be broken up into multiple sessions throughout the day. This breed also enjoys playing games such as fetch or tug-of-war, which can provide mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise.

In addition to regular exercise, the Dutch Smoushond also benefits from training and socialization. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new things and performing tasks for their owners. Training sessions can be incorporated into their exercise routine, providing mental stimulation and helping to strengthen the bond between owner and dog. Socialization is also important for this breed, as they can be wary of strangers and other dogs if not properly socialized from a young age. Regular trips to the dog park or playdates with other dogs can help to ensure that they are well-adjusted and friendly towards others.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Dutch Smoushonds have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets. They are known to get along well with cats and other dogs, as long as they are socialized properly from a young age. It is important to supervise interactions between pets, especially during the initial introduction period. Dutch Smoushonds are generally adaptable and can adjust to living with other animals in the household.

Housing Requirements

The Dutch Smoushond is a breed that requires a moderate amount of exercise. They are active dogs that enjoy going for walks and playing in the yard. A daily walk of at least 30 minutes is recommended to keep them healthy and happy. They also enjoy playing games such as fetch and tug-of-war. It is important to provide them with enough space to run around and play. A securely fenced yard is ideal for this breed. Additionally, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation.

The Dutch Smoushond is a breed that requires a comfortable and cozy living space. They have a thick, wiry coat that provides insulation, making them well-suited for cooler climates. They do not tolerate extreme heat well, so it is important to provide them with a cool and shaded area during hot weather. They are also prone to dental issues, so it is important to provide them with dental chews and regular teeth cleanings. Additionally, they are social dogs that enjoy being around their family. They do not do well when left alone for long periods of time and may become destructive or anxious. Therefore, it is important to provide them with plenty of attention and affection.

Summary

The Dutch Smoushond has a friendly and affectionate personality, making them a great companion for families and individuals alike. They are known for their loyalty and adaptability, making them suitable for a variety of living situations. With proper training and socialization, they can get along well with other pets and children. Their moderate exercise needs make them a good choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities but don’t have the time for long, strenuous walks. Overall, the Dutch Smoushond is a delightful pet for those looking for a loyal and loving companion.

Dutch Smoushond Dog FAQS