✓ Verified · Reviewed datavaries by registry
Dutch Smoushond
Non-Sporting breed from Netherlands
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Dutch Smoushond
The Dutch Smoushond is a small, lively dog of Dutch origin, characterized by its shaggy, wiry yellow coat and cheerful expression. It is described as a terrier-type companion breed, known for being friendly, alert, affectionate, playful, lively, and intelligent. Originally bred as a stable ratter in 19th century Amsterdam, it is now kept primarily as a family companion. The breed's recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight is 9–11 kg for both sexes, height 35.5–42 cm, and lifespan 12–15 years. Energy and trainability are rated moderately high (4 out of 5), grooming needs moderate (3), shedding low (2), and suitability with children, other dogs, and apartment living is rated high (4). These scores are estimates and individual dogs may vary.
Quick facts
Dutch Smoushond at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupNon-Sporting
OriginNetherlands
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight9–11 kilogram
Female weight9–11 kilogram
Male height35.5–42 centimetre
Female height35.5–42 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Dutch Smoushond was developed in 19th century Amsterdam as a stable dog for controlling vermin. It is a small, wiry-coated breed of Dutch origin, originally used as a ratter in stables. The breed nearly faced extinction after World War II but was revived through a dedicated breeding program led by Mrs. H.M. Barkman van der Weel in the 1970s. Its history is tied to the Netherlands, and it is now recognized by some kennel clubs, though recognition status varies by registry. The breed's exact origins and early development are not fully documented, but it is considered a terrier-type companion dog.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
9–11 kilogramAdult weight35.5–42 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesWiryCoat colorsYellowRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyalertaffectionateplayfullivelyintelligent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Dutch Smoushond-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Dutch Smoushond puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight9–11 kilogramAdult female weight9–11 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Dutch Smoushond?
Estimated adult weight is 9–11 kg for both males and females, height 35.5–42 cm, and lifespan 12–15 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Dutch Smoushond?
The breed is described as friendly, alert, affectionate, playful, lively, and intelligent. However, individual dogs may differ in temperament.
How much exercise does a Dutch Smoushond need?
Energy level is rated 4 out of 5, indicating a moderately high need for daily activity. Regular walks and playtime are recommended.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming is rated 3 out of 5 (moderate). The wiry coat likely requires regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping or trimming. Shedding is low (2 out of 5).
Is the Dutch Smoushond good for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is rated 4 out of 5, suggesting it can adapt well to apartment life if given sufficient exercise.
Is the Dutch Smoushond good with children and other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both rated 4 out of 5, indicating generally positive interactions, but supervision and proper socialization are always important.
Where does the Dutch Smoushond originate?
The breed originates from the Netherlands, specifically developed in 19th century Amsterdam as a stable ratter.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.