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Markiesje
Companion breed from Netherlands
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Markiesje
The Markiesje is a small, elegant spaniel-type companion dog from the Netherlands, characterized by its silky, medium-length black coat and intelligent, calm expression. This breed is described as friendly, intelligent, calm, alert, affectionate, and energetic. Its size is estimated at 35–40 cm in height and 6–8 kg in weight, with a lifespan of 12–15 years. The Markiesje is suited to apartment living and generally compatible with children and other dogs, though individual temperaments vary. Grooming needs are moderate, and shedding is low. The breed's recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Markiesje at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupCompanion
OriginNetherlands
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight6–8 kilogram
Female weight6–8 kilogram
Male height35–40 centimetre
Female height35–40 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Markiesje is an ancient Dutch breed that appears in paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries, where it was depicted as a companion to noblewomen. This historical evidence suggests the breed has been kept as a companion dog for several centuries in the Netherlands. However, the breed's exact origins and early development are not fully documented. By the 1970s, the Markiesje had become nearly extinct. A dedicated breeding program began in the 1980s to revive the breed. The Dutch Kennel Club officially recognized the Markiesje in 1999, and it has also received provisional recognition from the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The breed remains relatively rare and is primarily found in its native Netherlands.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
6–8 kilogramAdult weight35–40 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesMedium-length, SilkyCoat colorsBlackRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyintelligentcalmalertaffectionateenergetic
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
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 Markiesje-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
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Growth chart
Markiesje 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 weight6–8 kilogramAdult female weight6–8 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 Markiesje?
The Markiesje is a small breed, with an estimated adult height of 35–40 cm and weight of 6–8 kg for both males and females. Its estimated lifespan is 12–15 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Markiesje's temperament like?
The breed is described as friendly, intelligent, calm, alert, affectionate, and energetic. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every Markiesje will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Markiesje need?
The Markiesje has a moderate energy level (energy score 3 out of 5). It likely benefits from daily walks and playtime, but specific exercise requirements are not detailed in the available facts.
What are the grooming requirements for a Markiesje?
The Markiesje has a medium-length, silky coat that is black. Grooming needs are moderate (score 3 out of 5), and shedding is low (score 2 out of 5). Regular brushing is recommended to keep the coat in good condition.
Is the Markiesje suitable for apartment living?
Yes, the Markiesje is well-suited to apartment living, with an apartment suitability score of 4 out of 5. Its small size and calm temperament make it a good choice for smaller homes.
Is the Markiesje good with children and other dogs?
The breed has a child suitability score of 4 out of 5 and a dog compatibility score of 3 out of 5, suggesting it is generally good with children and can get along with other dogs, but individual temperament and socialization play a significant role.
Where does the Markiesje originate from?
The Markiesje originates from the Netherlands. It is an ancient Dutch breed that appears in 17th- and 18th-century paintings as a companion to noblewomen. It was nearly extinct by the 1970s but was revived through a breeding program starting in the 1980s.
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.