Stabyhoun

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Rare Dutch gundog originally bred as an all‑round farm and hunting companion
• Gentle, people‑oriented temperament that suits family life when well trained
• Medium‑sized, athletic body with a silky, feathered coat that sheds seasonally
• Versatile worker that can excel in field work, scent work, agility, and dog sports
• Still considered a relatively healthy, long‑lived breed when bred responsibly

Appearance & Coat

The Stabyhoun is a medium‑sized dog with a balanced, athletic outline that reflects its history as an all‑round working farm dog. At first glance some people see similarities to a spaniel or a small setter, but a typical Stabyhoun has its own characteristic look. Males generally stand around 50 to 53 centimeters at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller, and the overall impression should be neither heavy nor delicate. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, which gives the dog efficient movement in the field and enough strength to work all day without looking bulky. The chest is well developed but not barrel‑shaped, the topline is level, and the tail is carried in a gentle curve, not too high and not tightly curled over the back.

The head should be clean and noble, with a slightly domed skull and a gentle stop rather than a sharp one. The muzzle is straight, with lips that are tight and dry, never loose or droopy. Eyes are medium‑sized, oval, and dark brown to lighter brown depending on coat color, always with an intelligent and kind expression. Ears are set just above eye level, of medium length, and lie close to the head with soft, wavy feathering that adds to the breed’s charm without looking exaggerated. A Stabyhoun in good condition should move with a smooth, ground‑covering trot, looking as if it could easily follow a hunter or farmer throughout a long working day.

The coat is one of the most distinctive features of the Stabyhoun. It is medium long, slightly wavy or straight, and feels silky rather than coarse. There is well developed feathering on the backs of the legs, the tail, and around the chest and belly. The undercoat provides protection from cold and wet conditions, which reflects the breed’s origin in the damp Dutch countryside. Traditional colors are:

• Black and white
• Brown and white
• Orange and white (rarer and more strictly regulated in some countries)

Patches or ticking in the white areas are common, and the head is usually mostly colored with a white blaze or small marking allowed. Excessive ticking that blurs the contrast between white and color is not preferred, but in everyday life many owners find the markings simply add to the dog’s individuality.

Coat care for a Stabyhoun is practical but does require commitment. The silky coat tends to resist dirt up to a point, and mud often dries and brushes out easily. However, seasonal shedding can be quite heavy. Plan for a thorough brushing several times per week, and daily during the big spring and autumn sheds. A slicker brush or pin brush works well on the body, while a comb helps gently detangle feathering on the ears, legs, and tail. It is wise to check and comb out any burrs or grass seeds after country walks, particularly under the ears and between the toes. Regular inspection of the ears is important, because the hanging ear with feathering can trap moisture. Keeping the ear hair tidy and drying after swimming helps prevent infections.

Baths are only needed occasionally, usually when the dog has rolled in something unpleasant or has a build‑up of natural oils. Use a gentle dog shampoo to avoid stripping the coat. Trimming is mostly limited to tidying the paws and sometimes lightly neatening feathering for cleanliness, rather than cosmetic styling. As with all breeds, nail care, tooth brushing, and checking the skin under the coat complete the grooming routine, and many Stabyhoun owners turn grooming sessions into a calm bonding time with their dog.

Temperament & Personality

The Stabyhoun is often described as gentle, devoted, and quietly intelligent. This is not a high‑strung or flashy dog, but rather a steady, affectionate companion who likes to stay close to its people. Historically, the Stabyhoun was kept as a family dog on small farms in the Frisian region of the Netherlands, where it was expected to be friendly and safe around children while still able to work in the fields, hunt small game, and watch over the property. That background still influences the modern breed. Many owners appreciate that the Stabyhoun tends to form strong bonds with the whole family, rather than attaching to just one person.

In daily life, a well bred and well socialized Stabyhoun is usually calm in the house once its physical and mental needs are met. They are often quite cuddly and will happily curl up at your feet or on a dog bed in the same room, rather than seeking solitude. Their sensitivity to human moods is often mentioned by owners. It is common to hear that a Stabyhoun will quietly comfort a sad child or stick close to a family member who is unwell or stressed. This sensitivity is part of what makes them such lovely companions, but it also means they do best in a stable, kind environment and may not respond well to harsh treatment or loud, chaotic households.

With children, the Stabyhoun tends to be patient and tolerant, especially when raised with them from puppyhood. Their moderate size means they are sturdy enough to keep up with active play but not so large that they are likely to knock young children over accidentally if properly managed. Still, as with any breed, respectful interactions must be taught on both sides. For example, children should learn to leave the dog alone while it eats or sleeps and to handle ears and tail gently. In return, a Stabyhoun often makes a loyal playmate, happy to join in garden games, walks, and gentle fetch.

When it comes to other pets, the picture is mostly positive with some important caveats. The Stabyhoun is a hunting breed, so it has a natural prey drive. With careful introductions and consistent rules, many live peacefully with cats and other dogs, especially if they are raised together from a young age. In multi‑dog households, Stabyhouns are usually sociable and cooperative, although any dog can have individual preferences about play and personal space. Small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and backyard poultry can be more challenging. Some Stabyhouns can learn to coexist calmly, particularly when they grow up in that environment, while others may always see these animals as prey. Prospective owners who keep small pets should discuss this with experienced breeders and plan management strategies such as secure pens and supervised interactions.

One of the recurring themes with the breed is a tendency toward sensitivity and sometimes shyness. A poorly socialized Stabyhoun may be reserved with strangers or uncomfortable in busy, noisy locations. That does not mean the breed should be fearful. A confident Stabyhoun can be politely reserved but still steady and relaxed. Early socialization helps enormously. Introducing a puppy to friendly people, different sounds, surfaces, and gentle experiences gives it the tools to handle adult life with composure. Without this, you may see behaviors such as barking at visitors, reluctance to walk through crowded areas, or difficulty with new situations.

Common challenges with the breed often revolve around their quick mind and emotional sensitivity. Stabyhouns can be quietly stubborn if they do not see the point of a request, and they may switch off if training is too harsh or repetitive. They also become very attached to their families, and some individuals can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without preparation. Prospective owners should expect a dog that wants meaningful interaction and may not thrive as a “backyard only” dog or in a household where everyone is away for very long workdays. Given the right environment, the Stabyhoun pays back that commitment by being a deeply affectionate, loyal, and even somewhat soulful companion.

Training & Exercise

A Stabyhoun is an active, capable working dog, not a decorative companion. Its exercise and training needs reflect that heritage, although the exact level of activity will vary between individuals. Most adult Stabyhouns require at least one to two hours of physical exercise spread across the day, combined with mental challenges that tap into their natural skills. This does not have to be extreme sport, but it does need to be purposeful. A leisurely stroll around the block is rarely enough on its own for a healthy young adult.

Because the breed is a versatile gundog, activities that involve nose work, retrieving, and using their brain are ideal. Many owners enjoy:

• Long walks or hikes across varied terrain
• Off‑lead running in safe, enclosed areas
• Fetch games with a ball or dummy, on land or in water
• Scent games, such as hiding treats or toys and asking the dog to find them
• More structured work, like field training, tracking, or search games

Swimming is often a particular favorite. Stabyhouns typically enjoy water and can be strong swimmers, as they were historically used for retrieving in wetlands and along canals. Regular swimming provides excellent low‑impact exercise that helps build muscle without putting too much strain on the joints. Always introduce water gradually, check that conditions are safe, and rinse the coat after swimming in lakes or the sea to avoid skin irritation.

When it comes to training, the Stabyhoun’s combination of intelligence and sensitivity means that positive, reward‑based methods work best. They learn quickly but can also lose interest if training is dull or if the handler is inconsistent. Short, varied sessions with clear rewards, a calm tone of voice, and patience tend to produce the best results. Many Stabyhouns respond beautifully to:

• Food rewards for early learning and shaping new behaviors
• Play or access to a favorite activity as a high value reward
• Gentle praise and physical affection once a behavior is established

They do not respond well to rough handling, shouting, or heavy corrections. These methods can damage trust and may lead to either shutdown behavior or defensive reactions. Because the breed can be a little soft by nature, a handler who is fair, confident, and kind will earn enthusiastic cooperation, while an unpredictable or overly tough approach can create confusion and resistance.

Basic obedience should include reliable recall, loose lead walking, and a good “stay” or “settle” cue, especially given the breed’s hunting background. A Stabyhoun that understands it must check in frequently, come back when called, and walk calmly on a lead is easier to manage outdoors around wildlife and other distractions. Many owners also find it useful to teach a special “enough” cue that tells the dog to stop barking or to disengage from an exciting scent and focus on the handler again.

Dog sports can be an excellent outlet for a Stabyhoun’s energy and brainpower. The breed can excel in:

• Agility, where its athletic build and eagerness to please shine
• Obedience and rally, which channel its intelligence and desire to work with the handler
• Tracking and mantrailing, which make full use of a talented nose
• Gundog work and field trials, especially in countries where such activities are organized for versatile hunting breeds

Consistency is key during adolescence. Like many working breeds, Stabyhoun youngsters can be boisterous, easily distracted, and sometimes forgetful of rules they seemed to know well as puppies. Keeping up training through this stage, maintaining routines, and ensuring they still get appropriate exercise all help prevent undesirable behaviors such as destructive chewing, nuisance barking, and chasing. Owners who enjoy teaching tricks or playing training games often find the bond with their Stabyhoun grows stronger every year, and the dog remains mentally sharp well into old age.

Health

The Stabyhoun is considered a relatively healthy breed overall, especially compared with some larger and more heavily commercialized breeds. This is partly due to careful breeding practices in the Netherlands and other countries where breed clubs keep close track of pedigrees and health testing. However, like any purebred dog, the Stabyhoun is not entirely free from health concerns. Responsible breeders aim to minimize these risks through testing and thoughtful pairings, and informed owners can play a big role in maintaining their dog’s wellbeing throughout its life.

One of the better known issues in the breed is hip dysplasia, a developmental condition affecting the ball and socket of the hip joint. Mild cases may only cause stiffness after exercise, while severe cases can lead to pain, lameness, and early arthritis. Reputable breeders have their breeding dogs screened for hip dysplasia with official hip scoring schemes and avoid using dogs with poor scores. Prospective owners should always ask about hip results for both parents and be wary of lines where hip health is unknown or ignored.

Elbow dysplasia, although less common than hip dysplasia, is another joint concern that responsible breeders may screen for. In a working and active breed like the Stabyhoun, healthy joints are especially important. Moderate, age‑appropriate exercise as a puppy, avoiding excessive jumping or long stair climbing, and maintaining a lean body weight all help protect developing joints.

Epilepsy has been reported in the breed. It can range from very mild, infrequent seizures to more serious patterns of illness. Breeding programs in the Netherlands and elsewhere have focused on reducing the incidence of epilepsy by tracking affected lines and using genetic knowledge to plan matings. There is no simple DNA test for all forms of epilepsy, so transparency from breeders about family history is essential.

Several genetic tests are available for conditions that may be present in the Stabyhoun population, for example:

• von Willebrand’s disease type 1, a bleeding disorder
• Patent ductus arteriosus and other congenital heart issues in some lines
• Certain inherited eye conditions identified through eye examinations

A responsible breeder will typically carry out or follow recommended health tests, which may include:

• Hip and sometimes elbow scoring through X‑rays
• Eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist, often repeated at intervals
• DNA tests for known hereditary conditions relevant to their national breeding guidelines

When talking to breeders, you can ask which tests they use, how they interpret the results, and how they apply them to their breeding decisions.

Day to day health care for a Stabyhoun is much the same as for other active medium‑sized breeds. A healthy adult typically lives between 12 and 14 years, although some live longer with good care. Routine veterinary checks, vaccinations according to local recommendations, regular deworming, and tick and flea prevention are basic requirements. Diet plays a significant role too. The breed tends to do well on a high quality, balanced dog food, whether commercial or well formulated home diets under veterinary guidance. Avoiding excess weight is crucial, since added kilos put stress on the joints and can aggravate underlying orthopedic issues.

Oral health should not be overlooked. Many Stabyhouns tolerate tooth brushing if it is introduced gently and gradually. Chew toys and dental treats can help, but nothing replaces regular brushing for preventing plaque and tartar. Ears need attention because of their shape and feathering. Weekly checks and gentle cleaning when necessary reduce the risk of ear infections, particularly if the dog swims often or has allergies.

Finally, mental health is part of overall health. A Stabyhoun that receives sufficient exercise, clear boundaries, and meaningful interaction is less likely to develop stress‑related behaviors. Signs such as excessive licking, pacing, or destructive chewing can indicate boredom, anxiety, or pain. Early consultation with a vet and, if appropriate, a qualified behavior professional can prevent minor concerns from becoming entrenched problems. Choosing a well bred puppy or a carefully assessed adult, and then investing in preventive care, gives the Stabyhoun the best chance of enjoying a long, active, and contented life.

History & Origins

The Stabyhoun originates from the Dutch province of Friesland, in the northern part of the Netherlands. Its name reflects this heritage. “Staby” is thought to come from the Frisian phrase “sta me bij,” meaning “stand by me,” while “houn” simply means “dog.” This name captures the essence of the breed as a loyal helper that stays close to its owner both at home and in the field. For centuries, Stabyhouns lived on small farms and homesteads, serving as multipurpose dogs in a region of wetlands, meadows, and farmlands threaded with ditches and canals.

Unlike specialized hunting dogs that were reserved for nobility, the Stabyhoun was a dog of the common people. Farmers needed one dog that could do it all. A typical Stabyhoun might spend the early morning accompanying its owner to check livestock and fields, then help control moles and rats that threatened crops and dikes, and later join in for a bit of hunting for rabbits, ducks, or other small game to feed the family. In the evening, it would watch over the yard and barns and rest with the family. This modest but demanding role shaped a breed that is versatile, patient, and closely tuned to human partners.

Historically, the Stabyhoun is closely connected to another Frisian breed, the Wetterhoun. In earlier times these two types were often interbred on farms, leading to dogs that sometimes showed characteristics of both. By the early 20th century, enthusiasts in the Netherlands became concerned that the distinct types might disappear. Efforts began to separate the breeds and establish clearer breeding lines. In 1942, the Stabyhoun was officially recognized by the Dutch Kennel Club, which marked an important step in preserving the breed.

Although recognition brought some structure to breeding, the Stabyhoun remained rare and mostly unknown outside Friesland for many decades. Dutch breeders and the national breed club worked together to maintain genetic diversity in a small population by managing matings carefully and discouraging excessive inbreeding. This cooperative approach is still a hallmark of the breed’s development. Only in more recent decades has the Stabyhoun slowly spread to other parts of Europe, the United Kingdom, North America, and beyond. Even so, it remains a rare breed on a global scale, and many national breed clubs keep close contact with the original Dutch organizations.

Today, the roles of the Stabyhoun have adapted to modern life while staying true to its roots. In its homeland and in other countries, the Stabyhoun is still used as a hunting dog for upland game and waterfowl, valued for its calm, methodical searching style and soft mouth when retrieving. At the same time, more and more Stabyhouns live primarily as beloved family dogs who also participate in hobbies such as obedience, agility, tracking, mantrailing, and scent work. Some are involved in therapy or visiting programs thanks to their gentle nature.

Because it remains rare, breeders and breed clubs continue to emphasize responsible breeding practices and careful placement of puppies. The aim is to protect not only the physical health of the breed, but also its traditional character as a steady, versatile, people‑oriented dog. For prospective owners, this history explains why the Stabyhoun is not a dog that appears in every park and pet shop window. It is a carefully stewarded heritage breed that still carries the spirit of the Frisian farms where it first learned to “stand by” its people.

Living with the Breed

Sharing your life with a Stabyhoun is a rewarding experience, but it comes with certain expectations and responsibilities. This is not a dog that thrives on neglect or minimal interaction. A typical Stabyhoun wants to be part of daily family life, joining in activities, watching what you do, and often quietly following you from room to room. If you enjoy the idea of a close canine companion who is present but not overly loud or demanding, the Stabyhoun can be an excellent fit.

In practical terms, prospective owners should be prepared to dedicate time every day to exercise and mental engagement. That usually means at least one decent walk where the dog can move freely, sniff, and explore, plus shorter outings for toilet breaks and leg stretching. On top of that, plan regular training sessions, playtime, and calm social contact. On busy workdays, this might require creative planning, such as:

• Hiring a reliable dog walker
• Arranging doggy day care with a suitable provider
• Sharing responsibilities among family members
• Using food puzzles and scent games at home to take the edge off excess energy

A bored Stabyhoun may become destructive, noisy, or anxious. For example, a dog that is left alone for long stretches without preparation might begin to bark at every sound, chew furniture, or dig at doors and carpets. Preventing these issues is far easier than fixing them later. Teaching a puppy to be comfortable with short periods alone, providing safe chew toys and activity feeders, and ensuring a predictable routine all help create a more relaxed adult dog.

Financial commitment is another important aspect of living with this breed. Annual costs will vary by country and lifestyle, but owners should budget for:

• Quality food suitable for a medium, active dog
• Routine veterinary care, including vaccinations and parasite prevention
• Pet insurance or a dedicated savings fund for emergencies and unexpected surgery
• Regular grooming tools and supplies
• Training classes or sports fees, especially in the first 1 to 2 years
• Equipment such as leads, harnesses, beds, toys, crates, and car restraints

Over a year, these expenses can add up significantly, particularly if you prioritize good veterinary care and training. Buying a puppy from a reputable breeder also involves a higher upfront purchase price than from casual or unregulated sources. However, that cost helps support health testing, responsible rearing, and breeder support over the dog’s lifetime.

Day to day living arrangements should balance comfort, safety, and the dog’s social needs. A securely fenced garden or yard is ideal, although not absolutely required if you are committed to regular on‑lead walks and exercise in safe, off‑lead areas. Because of their hunting instincts, many Stabyhouns cannot be trusted off lead in unfenced places until recall is rock solid and even then some will need careful management around wildlife. Indoors, they appreciate a quiet corner with a comfortable bed or crate where they can retreat and rest. Crate training, when introduced gently, can be a helpful tool for travel, house training, and overnight security.

Useful equipment for a Stabyhoun typically includes:

• A well fitting Y‑shaped harness that allows free shoulder movement
• A sturdy lead, often 2 to 3 meters for everyday use, plus a longer line for recall training
• A variety of toys, including chew toys, soft toys, and puzzle feeders
• A grooming kit with a pin brush, slicker brush, comb, and nail clippers or grinder
• A non‑slip bed or mat for resting, and perhaps a crate if you plan to use one

Social life is another consideration. Stabyhouns usually enjoy time with their own family more than chaotic dog parks filled with unknown dogs. Many do well with a few familiar dog friends rather than constant interactions with large groups. Families that host frequent visitors should make sure the dog has a place to retreat if overwhelmed and that guests understand basic dog manners. With visitors, the breed typically ranges from politely reserved to friendly, depending on individual temperament and early socialization.

For new owners coming from more independent breeds, the Stabyhoun’s emotional closeness can be a delightful surprise. They often like to be near you in a calm, unassuming way, watching over children, resting by a desk while you work, or lying in the kitchen while you cook. If you are willing to meet their need for companionship, structure, and activity, they can adapt to a variety of living situations, from rural homes with land, to suburban houses, and even city apartments, provided their exercise and mental needs are consistently met.

In the end, living with a Stabyhoun means welcoming a thoughtful, sensitive, and versatile dog into the fabric of your everyday life. It asks for steady commitment, patience in training, and a genuine desire to understand and care for a working breed. In return, you are likely to gain a deeply loyal friend, a willing partner in outdoor adventures and dog sports, and a gentle presence that truly embodies the meaning of a dog that “stands by” its people.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does the Stabyhoun have with families and children?

This breed is generally gentle, patient and affectionate, which makes it well suited to family life. They tend to be soft-natured and tolerant with respectful children, though they can be reserved with strangers. Early socialization helps prevent shyness and encourages their naturally friendly character.

How much exercise does a Stabyhoun really need each day?

As an all‑round working gundog, this breed needs at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily physical activity plus some mental work. They do best with a mix of walking, off‑lead running where safe, and structured activities such as retrieving or scent games. Under‑exercised individuals may become restless or bored in the home.

Is the Stabyhoun suitable for first-time dog owners?

The cooperative, eager-to-please nature can suit a committed first-time owner who is willing to invest in training and exercise. Their softness means they respond poorly to harsh methods and do best with calm, consistent guidance. Inexperienced owners should be prepared for a high-energy, intelligent dog rather than a couch companion.

How strong is the hunting and prey drive in a Stabyhoun?

The breed was developed as a versatile farm and hunting dog, so most individuals retain a noticeable prey drive, especially toward birds and small game. With good recall training they can learn to work reliably off‑lead, but many will still want to chase wildlife. Early training, controlled exposure and working with their natural instincts are important.

What health problems are Stabyhouns prone to?

Overall the breed is considered relatively healthy with careful breeding, but there are some concerns to watch for. These include elbow and hip dysplasia, certain eye conditions and occasionally cardiac issues or epilepsy in some lines. Ethical breeders screen their dogs and owners should keep the dog lean and fit to protect joints.

How much grooming does a Stabyhoun’s coat require and does it shed a lot?

The medium‑length coat is water‑repellent and mostly self‑cleaning, but it does shed seasonally. Weekly brushing is usually enough for most of the year, increasing to several times a week during shedding periods to control loose hair and prevent mats behind the ears and in feathering. Bathing is needed only occasionally unless the dog gets very dirty.

Can a Stabyhoun live in an apartment or small home?

They can adapt to smaller living spaces if their exercise and mental needs are met consistently every day. Access to safe outdoor areas and regular off‑lead time is important, as they were bred to work in the field. A small home with an active lifestyle suits them far better than a large house with little activity.

How trainable is the Stabyhoun and what training style works best?

This breed is intelligent, biddable and enjoys working with people, but has a sensitive nature. Positive reinforcement, clear structure and short, varied sessions work very well. Harsh corrections or repetitive drilling can make them shut down or lose confidence.

Does the Stabyhoun get along with other dogs and household pets?

Most are sociable with other dogs if well socialized from puppyhood and tend to avoid conflict. They can live with cats and other pets when raised together and carefully introduced, although their hunting background means supervision is important with small animals. Management and training are key to keeping prey instincts under control indoors.

How rare is the Stabyhoun outside the Netherlands and what does that mean for potential owners?

The breed is still relatively rare worldwide, with a limited gene pool and careful breeding controls in many countries. This often means longer waiting lists, higher travel costs to meet breeders and fewer local examples to observe in person. On the positive side, rarity has helped maintain a generally sound temperament and functional working ability.

Sources

• The UK Stabyhoun Association
• Deutscher Stabyhoun Club e.V. (Germany)
• Swedish Kennel Club (Svenska Kennelklubben)
• The Stabyhoun Association (NL)
• Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI)