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Schapendoes
Herding breed from Netherlands
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Schapendoes
The Schapendoes is a medium-sized Dutch herding dog with a long, shaggy double coat and a lively, cheerful disposition. Known for its springy, effortless movement and lightly built frame, this energetic breed combines intelligence with an independent herding nature. Temperaments include friendly, intelligent, energetic, playful, courageous, and alert, though individual dogs may vary. The breed's energy score is 5 (very high), trainability score is 3 (moderate), and grooming score is 4 (high maintenance). Shedding is moderate (score 3). Estimated adult weight for both males and females ranges from 12 to 20 kg, and estimated adult height from 43 to 51 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. The breed's recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Schapendoes at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHerding
OriginNetherlands
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight12–20 kilogram
Female weight12–20 kilogram
Male height43–51 centimetre
Female height43–51 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Schapendoes is an ancient Dutch herding breed developed to herd sheep in the wetlands of the Netherlands. Its exact origins are not precisely documented, but it is known to have been used for centuries by Dutch shepherds. The breed nearly became extinct after World War II but was successfully revived by P.M.C. Toepoel and dedicated fanciers in the 1940s and 1950s from remaining dogs. Today, the Schapendoes remains a relatively rare breed, with recognition status varying by kennel club or registry. Its history is closely tied to the Dutch countryside and traditional herding practices.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
12–20 kilogramAdult weight43–51 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesDouble, LongCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyintelligentenergeticplayfulcourageousalert
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
Moderate compared with other breeds
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
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 · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium 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 Schapendoes-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
- 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: 5
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Growth chart
Schapendoes 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 weight12–20 kilogramAdult female weight12–20 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 Schapendoes?
The Schapendoes is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 12 to 20 kg, and estimated adult height is 43 to 51 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Schapendoes temperament like?
The breed is described as friendly, intelligent, energetic, playful, courageous, and alert. However, individual dogs may differ. They have an independent herding nature and are known for a lively, cheerful disposition.
How much exercise does a Schapendoes need?
The Schapendoes has a very high energy level (score 5 out of 5). It likely requires substantial daily exercise, but specific needs are not detailed in the supplied facts. As a herding breed, it probably benefits from activities that engage both mind and body.
What are the grooming requirements for a Schapendoes?
Grooming score is 4 out of 5 (high maintenance), and shedding score is 3 (moderate). The breed has a long, shaggy double coat that likely requires regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Specific grooming routines are not provided.
Is the Schapendoes suitable for apartment living?
Apartment suitability score is 2 out of 5, suggesting it may not be ideal for small spaces. The breed's high energy and herding instincts likely require more room to move, but individual adaptability can vary.
Is the Schapendoes good with children and other dogs?
Child suitability score is 4 out of 5, indicating generally good compatibility, though supervision is always recommended. Dog compatibility score is 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate tolerance; early socialization is important.
Where does the Schapendoes originate from?
The Schapendoes originates from the Netherlands, where it was developed as an ancient herding breed to herd sheep in the wetlands. It was nearly extinct after WWII but revived in the 1940s-1950s.
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.