Dutch Smoushond

The Dutch Smoushond (Hollandse Smoushond) is a charming and rustic small breed with origins in the Netherlands dating back to the mid-to-late 19th century. These shaggy, yellow dogs were commonly found in stables and coach houses, particularly in Amsterdam and other urban areas, where their primary role was that of a skilled ratter, keeping vermin populations under control. Their name “Smoushond” likely refers to their shaggy facial hair, resembling the beards of “Smouzen” (a colloquial term for Jewish men at the time, many of whom were merchants and might have owned such dogs for their businesses).

Beyond their ratting duties, Dutch Smoushonds were also kept as companions by gentlemen and tradesmen, valued for their alert nature and affable personalities. They are believed to have descended from various German pinscher and schnauzer types, or possibly yellow terrier-like dogs. The breed gained some popularity, but like many European breeds, its numbers dwindled significantly during World War II, and it faced near extinction. A dedicated revival effort began in the 1970s by Dutch breeders, notably Mrs. H.M. Barkman. Using the few remaining individuals and carefully selected outcrosses where necessary, the breed was successfully brought back. While still relatively rare, especially outside the Netherlands, the Dutch Smoushond is cherished for its unique appearance and delightful character.

The Dutch Smoushond is known for its lively, affectionate, and friendly temperament. They are typically cheerful dogs that form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human companionship. Smoushonds are intelligent, playful, and possess a curious nature, always keen to be involved in household activities. Despite their history as ratters, they are generally not aggressive and are known for being good-natured and even-tempered.

They are alert and make good watchdogs, quick to bark to announce visitors or anything unusual, but they are not typically excessive barkers if their needs are met. Early socialization is important to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults, comfortable with various people, sights, and sounds. Smoushonds are generally good with children and can get along well with other dogs and pets, especially if raised with them. Their intelligence and desire to interact make them enjoyable companions for families who appreciate a spirited yet loving small dog.

The Dutch Smoushond has a distinctive single coat that is rough, coarse, wiry, and shaggy, giving it an unkempt but charming appearance. The coat is typically about 2-2.5 inches long all over the body and is always a solid yellow in various shades, from light straw yellow (preferred) to darker reddish-yellow. They have a characteristic mustache, beard, and shaggy eyebrows.

Their wiry coat is considered relatively low-shedding but does require regular grooming to prevent matting and to maintain its rustic texture. A thorough brushing once or twice a week with a slicker brush or pin brush and a comb is necessary to remove loose dead hair and work through any tangles. To maintain the correct harsh texture, the coat is often hand-stripped (plucking dead outer hairs) two to three times a year. Clipping is generally discouraged as it can soften and alter the coat’s texture and color. Their facial furnishings will need occasional cleaning to prevent food debris buildup. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care are also essential grooming tasks.

Dutch Smoushonds are active and playful dogs with moderate exercise needs. They enjoy daily activity to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated. While not high-strung endurance athletes, they are not couch potatoes either and thrive on engagement with their owners.

Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of activity per day, which can include:

• Brisk daily walks on a leash. They enjoy exploring their surroundings.
• Playtime in a securely fenced yard. They enjoy games like fetch with a ball or sturdy toy, or simply romping with their family.
• Interactive games that challenge their intelligent minds, such as puzzle toys or learning new tricks.
• Some Smoushonds may enjoy and excel in canine sports like agility (on a smaller scale) or Earthdog trials (tapping into their ratting instincts).

Without a proper outlet for their energy, Dutch Smoushonds can become bored, which may lead to undesirable behaviors. They are adaptable and can do well in various living situations, including apartments, as long as their exercise and companionship needs are consistently met.

The Dutch Smoushond is generally considered a healthy breed, partly due to its history and the dedicated efforts of breeders during its revival to maintain good health and genetic diversity from a small foundation. However, like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions. As a relatively rare breed, comprehensive data on genetic predispositions may be somewhat limited compared to more common breeds. Potential concerns might include:

• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap, common in many small breeds.
• Hip Dysplasia:** While more common in larger breeds, it’s always a consideration for purebred dogs; screening of breeding stock is wise.
• Eye Conditions: General screening for conditions like cataracts or Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) would be prudent for breeding stock, though not widely reported as major issues.
• Dental Issues:** Like many small breeds, they can be prone to tartar buildup and gum disease.