
Sporting breed from Friesland, Netherlands
The Stabyhoun is a medium-sized sporting dog from the Friesland province of the Netherlands. It has a long, black and white coat and is known for its gentle, intelligent, calm, loyal, friendly, and devoted temperament. Individual dogs may vary in behavior. The breed is one of the rarest in the world and is considered a Dutch national treasure. Its recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight is 20–25 kg for both sexes, and estimated adult height is 51–55 cm for both sexes. Lifespan is not provided in the available facts.
The Stabyhoun was developed in the Friesland province of the Netherlands in the 1800s. It was bred as a versatile farm dog, used for pointing, retrieving game, and controlling vermin. The breed is one of the rarest in the world and is considered a Dutch national treasure. Its exact history beyond these facts is not detailed in the available information.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Moderate compared with other breeds
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
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.
No Stabyhoun-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.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
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The Stabyhoun is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight is 20–25 kg for both males and females, and estimated adult height is 51–55 cm for both sexes. Lifespan is not provided in the available facts.
The breed is described as gentle, intelligent, calm, loyal, friendly, and devoted. However, individual dogs may vary in behavior.
The breed has an energy score of 3 out of 5, indicating moderate exercise needs. As a sporting breed originally used for hunting and farm work, regular physical activity is important.
The Stabyhoun has a long coat and a grooming score of 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate grooming needs. Shedding is also rated 3 out of 5, so regular brushing is recommended.
Child suitability is rated 4 out of 5, and dog compatibility is rated 4 out of 5, indicating the breed generally gets along well with children and other dogs. However, individual temperaments can vary.
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5, suggesting it may be possible but not ideal. The breed has moderate energy and may benefit from access to a yard or regular outdoor exercise.
The Stabyhoun originates from the Friesland province of the Netherlands. It was developed in the 1800s as a versatile farm dog.
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.