Whether you’re looking for a new puppy companion or just want to add another canine to your family, there are plenty of small dutch dog breeds to choose from. These versatile pups are great for many activities, including agility and obedience trials. They’re also a joy to take on jogs and hikes and enjoy playing in the yard or park.

Markiesje: Elegant and Loving

The Markiesje is a companion dog that was first used for ladies of noble birth in the eighteenth century. They have a double coat and are generally black with a few white markings. The hair on their head is long and wiry giving them a wizened look. Their ears are triangular in shape and hang down. Their beard and mustache are formed from straight, long, wiry hairs and give them an untidy appearance. Their nose is wide with a domed skull. They are very active and intelligent dogs.

Kooikerhondjes are a sporting spaniel-type breed that was used as a duck catcher’s dog in the Netherlands centuries ago. They were commonly used in man-made duck decoy ponds called Eendenkooi to lure in waterfowl for hunters to catch. By the end of World War II, they were almost extinct, but a breeding program was started by Baroness von Hardenbroek van Ammerstol and 52 litters were produced.

Today, these charming herding dogs are cherished as family pets and love to play and spend time with their humans. Their loyal and loving natures make them a pleasure to be around, but they can be stubborn and need regular exercise. Responsible breeders work hard to better the breed by doing all the recommended health tests, such as a patella exam, eye exam, hip dysplasia screening, and testing for carrier status of hereditary necrotizing myelopathy and Von Willebrand’s disease.