Dutch Spaniel Facts

The Dutch Spaniel is a gorgeous, small dog breed that was traditionally used for luring and hunting ducks. Today, however, this lively little dog can be found as an affectionate and loyal companion. Read on to find out more amazing Dutch Spaniel facts and information!

It Has A Rich Past

The Dutch Spaniel is a dog breed from the Netherlands that dates back to before the 16th century. The more common name for this dog is “Kooikerhondje,” which means “small cager dog” in Dutch. This little dog was especially popular in the 17th and 18th centuries and has been featured in numerous historical paintings.

Its Beautiful White Tail Serves An Important Purpose

One of the most striking features of the Dutch Spaniel is its flowing white tail, but this tail isn’t just for show! The Dutch Spaniel was historically used to lure ducks into traps, using its tail as a lure! The ducks would follow the dog’s tail until walking right into a canal trap. This makes the Dutch Spaniel one of the most unique and cunning hunters out of all the dog breeds!

The Dutch Spaniel Almost Went Extinct

While the Dutch Spaniel was an invaluable duck hunter for centuries, it nearly went extinct after World War I. The invention of the musket meant that hunters had a much more efficient manner of catching game, and the Dutch Spaniel sadly went out of fashion.

One of the most interesting facts about the Dutch Spaniels, however, is that one determined Baroness was determined to bring the breed back from the brink of extinction, and while a bit rarer than other dog breeds, it’s flourishing thanks to many dedicated fanciers.

They’re Prone to Obesity

Overall, the Dutch Spaniel is a healthy little breed. However, they’re known to have a big appetite! If you give in and feed your Dutch Spaniel too much, it’s prone to put on weight, which can cause stress on its joints, as well as cause numerous other health problems. Thankfully, this is an active breed, as well, so plenty of runs in the park are the perfect way to work off any extra weight.

It May Be a Distant Ancestor of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a wonderful blend of several dog breeds, including Cocker Spaniels, Irish Setters, and other Retriever breeds. It’s also possible that the Dutch Spaniel’s expert duck luring skills were also blended into the lineage of the Nova Scotia Retriever, as well!

They’re Willing To Put Their Lives On The Line For Their Owners

One of the coolest fun facts about Dutch Spaniels is that one ended up saving the life of his owner, who just so happened to be royalty! The Dutch prince William of Oranje had a devoted Dutch Spaniel named Kuntz, who bravely saved his owner’s life when he was nearly assassinated!

These dogs may be tiny, but they’re so loyal and fearless that you’ll be able to sleep well knowing you have such a devoted companion looking out for you!

They’re Difficult To Find In Some Countries

Because the Dutch Spaniel nearly went extinct, it’s a relatively rare breed today. Great efforts have been made to bring it back, and it’s nowhere near close to extinction anymore! Still, the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. are just a few of the countries that have very few Dutch Spaniels. If you’re determined to bring a dog of this breed into your home, you may have a difficult time finding one.

The Dutch Spaniel Is An Adaptable Breed

Due to its small size, the Dutch Spaniel is adaptable enough to live in rural areas or in apartments. While it’s ideal for the Dutch Spaniel to have a large, fenced-in yard to run around in, living in an apartment can be possible with plenty of walks and playtime.

They Can Be Wary Around Other Dogs

While the Dutch Spaniel can be socialized to accept other dogs into its family while young, this dog is often wary of others. They don’t do particularly well at dog parks, as they can become aggressive. They are also wary of small children, so they are best suited to a home with older kids or only adults.

The Dutch Spaniel Is Happiest Around Its People

Overall, the Dutch Spaniel is a happy-go-lucky breed with a big heart. These dogs may have been bred for hunting, but they’re also steadfast companions who prefer to be around their people. One important Dutch Spaniel fact is that this breed would do best with someone who’s home often, so they don’t have to spend too much time on their own.

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