Schapendoes
A shaggy Dutch herding dog (Dutch Sheepdog), agile and good-natured. Lively, intelligent and affectionate, it makes a friendly family companion but needs exercise and regular grooming of its thick coat.
Schapendoes scorecard
Overview
The Schapendoes, or Dutch Sheepdog, is a shaggy, medium-sized herding breed from the Netherlands, standing around 40–50 cm tall and weighing roughly 12–25 kg. With its long, thick coat, abundant facial hair and light, springy build, it is an agile and good-natured dog that was traditionally used to herd sheep across the Dutch heaths and farmland.
Lively, intelligent and affectionate, the Schapendoes makes a friendly family companion for active households, though it needs plenty of exercise and regular grooming of its profuse coat. The breed is recognised by the FCI but is not currently a breed of The Kennel Club in the UK, where it remains relatively uncommon. Prospective owners should be ready for a busy, energetic herding dog that enjoys being involved in family life.
Good to know — a Schapendoes is best with a garden and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The Schapendoes is one of several traditional European shaggy herding dogs, related in type to breeds such as the Bearded Collie and the Bergamasco, and was long a common working sheepdog across the Netherlands. Like many regional working breeds, its numbers fell dramatically around the time of the Second World War, when the breed nearly disappeared.
Dedicated Dutch enthusiasts revived the Schapendoes in the mid-twentieth century, re-establishing the breed and gaining national recognition, and it was later recognised by the FCI. Today it is valued both as a companion and in dog sports, though it remains far more numerous in the Netherlands than in the UK.
Temperament & family fit
Schapendoes are lively, friendly and affectionate dogs that bond closely with their families and generally get on well with children and other dogs. Intelligent and alert, with the cooperative nature of a working herding breed, they are cheerful, attentive companions that enjoy being part of household activity. They are typically sociable rather than aggressive, though their herding heritage means they are watchful and will alert to comings and goings.
This is an active, busy breed that thrives on company and stimulation. Without enough exercise and mental engagement, a bored Schapendoes can become restless or noisy. Early socialisation helps produce a well-rounded adult, and the breed's good nature makes it a rewarding family dog for those who can meet its needs.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Homes with a secure garden
Training & intelligence
Schapendoes are intelligent and trainable, with the willingness to work alongside people that comes from a herding background. They respond well to positive, reward-based training and enjoy the mental challenge, often excelling in dog sports such as agility and obedience. Short, varied and engaging sessions suit their lively minds best.
With their herding instincts, they appreciate having tasks to do, and channelling their energy into training and activities helps prevent boredom-related behaviours. They are generally considered reasonably suitable for committed first-time owners, provided those owners can offer consistent training, plenty of exercise and proper coat care.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Channel energy into training games & enrichment
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Schapendoes typically needs 90 minutes to 2 hours a day (roughly 90–120 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
The long, thick, slightly wavy coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting, with thorough brushing several times a week, increasing during seasonal moults. The abundant hair around the face and eyes should be kept clean and tidy, and ears checked regularly. While the coat does shed, consistent brushing keeps it manageable; occasional bathing and routine nail and dental care complete the routine.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding a Schapendoes
Feed a complete, balanced diet suited to an active, medium-sized dog, adjusting portions to the dog's energy level to keep it fit and lean. Active working-type dogs may need a little more, while less active individuals must be fed carefully to avoid weight gain. Divide the daily ration into measured meals, provide constant access to fresh water, and follow veterinary guidance on amounts.
A medium breed
An adult Schapendoes typically weighs 12–25 kg, so a healthy Schapendoes eats a moderate amount compared with other breeds. Every feeding guide on a bag is written per kilo of body weight, not per breed — start there, then adjust to the dog in front of you.
Life stage
A medium breed is usually done growing at ~12 months, which is roughly when a puppy food has finished its job. With a typical lifespan of 12–15 years, there is a long adult stretch in the middle; switch to a senior food when your vet thinks it is worth it rather than on a birthday.
A high-energy dog eats like one
Schapendoess sit at the top end for energy, and a dog working through an hour and a half of real exercise a day burns through the feeding guide faster than a dog on a short stroll. Feed to the dog's condition, not to the middle of the range on the bag.
How much should a Schapendoes weigh?
Adult 12–25 kgfully grown at ~12 months
| Age | Stage | Typical weight | Of adult size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 weeks | Just home | 1.8–3.8 kg | 15% |
| 3 months | Young puppy | 3–6.3 kg | 25% |
| 6 months | Growing fast | 6–12.5 kg | 50% |
| ~12 months | Fully grown | 12–25 kg | 100% |
A guide, from the same rule of thumb our puppy growth predictor uses — each age is that share of the way to maturity for a medium breed. Puppies grow fastest early, so a real puppy usually sits a little above the middle rows. Weigh yours and ask your vet if the number worries you.
Complete dog foods that suit a Schapendoes
Complete foods from our range, matched to a Schapendoes's size band and what the breed typically needs. Stock levels and delivery dates are live on each product.
Simpsons Dog Sensitive Lamb Potato
A grain-free lamb and potato dry food for dogs with sensitive skin or digestion
From£17.05
Forthglade Cold Pressed Natural Turkey
Cold-pressed turkey kibble for dogs from 2 months, soft enough to mix with water for young pups
£45.99
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Salmon
Cold-pressed grain-free dry food for dogs, built on fresh and dried salmon
From£16.99
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Duck
Cold-pressed grain-free duck food with fruit and botanicals, in two bag sizes
From£16.99
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Chicken
Cold-pressed grain-free chicken food with fruit and botanicals, in three bag sizes
From£16.99
Forthglade Complete Meal Lightly Baked Turkey
A lightly baked complete dry food, 50% turkey, for adult dogs of any breed
From£12.49
Forthglade Complete Meal Lightly Baked Chicken
A grain-free complete dry food for adult dogs, lightly baked and built on 50% chicken
From£12.49
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Turkey
Grain-free cold-pressed turkey kibble for dogs, gentle on sensitive stomachs
£69.69
Forthglade British Classics Chicken Family Lunch
Complete Forthglade wet dog food with 75% chicken in a 395G tray
£2.45
Harringtons Puppy Turkey & Rice
Complete turkey puppy food with 30% protein and feeding bands by adult weight
£6.49
Harringtons Just 6 Dry Dog Food Lamb
Grain-free lamb dry dog food in 2KG and 12KG sizes, with size-specific formulas
From£13.99
Burns Puppy Original Lamb & Rice
Complete Burns lamb and rice puppy food in a 2KG bag for up to 12 months
£14.99
Schapendoes health & costs
Before bringing a Schapendoes home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£400–600 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£25–45 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£400–700 / year
Regular professional grooming
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
The Schapendoes is generally a healthy, hardy breed with a typical lifespan of around 12–15 years, benefiting from its functional working build and the care taken by enthusiasts during its revival. Most individuals enjoy good health when well cared for.
As with any breed, some inherited conditions can occur, and responsible breeders screen breeding stock where relevant schemes exist, particularly for eye and hip problems. Because the breed is relatively uncommon in the UK, prospective owners should ask breeders about the health of the parents and any health testing carried out.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Progressive retinal atrophy — an inherited eye disease reported in the breed that can lead to blindness; DNA and eye testing help responsible breeders.
- Hip dysplasia — a developmental hip condition seen in many breeds; breeding dogs are ideally hip-scored.
- Eye irritation — the heavy facial hair around the eyes can cause irritation if not kept clean and trimmed.
- Ear infections — the hairy, dropped ears benefit from regular checking and cleaning to prevent infection.
- Coat matting and skin issues — a neglected coat can mat and cause skin problems, so regular grooming is important.
- Obesity — weight gain is a risk if the breed's exercise needs are not met.
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Schapendoes; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Schapendoes puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Schapendoes
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Friendly, lively and good with families
- Agile and trainable
Things to consider
- Shaggy coat needs regular grooming
- High energy and needs plenty of activity
Compare the Schapendoes
See how the Schapendoes measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Standard Schnauzer
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Schapendoes?
The Schapendoes, or Dutch Sheepdog, is a shaggy, medium-sized herding breed from the Netherlands. Standing around 40–50 cm tall and weighing roughly 12–25 kg, it has a long, thick coat, abundant facial hair and a light, springy build. Traditionally used to herd sheep across Dutch heaths and farmland, it is an agile, good-natured and lively dog that enjoys being part of family life.
Are Schapendoes good family dogs?
Yes. Schapendoes are lively, friendly and affectionate, bonding closely with their families and generally getting on well with children and other dogs. Intelligent and alert, they are cheerful companions that enjoy household activity. They make rewarding family dogs for active households that can meet their needs for exercise, mental stimulation and regular grooming, and early socialisation helps produce a well-rounded adult.
How much exercise does a Schapendoes need?
The Schapendoes is an energetic, agile breed that needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Long walks, off-lead running in safe areas, play and dog sports all suit its athletic nature, and a garden is beneficial. It particularly enjoys activities that engage both body and mind. Without adequate exercise it can become frustrated, so an active household is the best fit.
Do Schapendoes need a lot of grooming?
Yes. The long, thick, slightly wavy coat needs thorough brushing several times a week to prevent matting, increasing during seasonal moults. The abundant hair around the face and eyes should be kept clean and tidy, and ears checked regularly. The coat does shed, but consistent brushing keeps it manageable, alongside occasional bathing and routine nail and dental care.
Are Schapendoes easy to train?
Schapendoes are intelligent and trainable, with the cooperative willingness of a herding breed. They respond well to positive, reward-based training and enjoy the mental challenge, often excelling at agility and obedience. Short, varied, engaging sessions suit them best. They are generally considered reasonably suitable for committed first-time owners who can offer consistent training, plenty of exercise and proper coat care.
How long do Schapendoes live?
The Schapendoes is generally a healthy, hardy breed with a typical lifespan of around 12–15 years, benefiting from its functional working build. As with any breed, some inherited conditions can occur, particularly eye and hip problems, so responsible breeders screen where relevant schemes exist. Because the breed is uncommon in the UK, ask breeders about the parents' health and any testing carried out.
Can a Schapendoes be left alone?
Not for long. The Schapendoes thrives on company and dislikes being left alone for extended periods, and a bored, under-stimulated individual can become restless or noisy. It suits an active home with a garden and owners who enjoy walks, play and dog sports. Plenty of exercise, mental engagement and company keep this sociable, busy herding dog happy and well-behaved.
Are Schapendoeses good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Schapendoess tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Schapendoes need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Schapendoes needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Schapendoeses shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is high upkeep — plan on frequent brushing and regular trips to a groomer.
Are Schapendoeses easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Schapendoess are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Schapendoeses bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Schapendoeses good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Schapendoeses suit flats or smaller homes?
Best with a garden. A Schapendoes is happiest with access to a secure garden and regular outdoor exercise.
Sources
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) — Schapendoes (Dutch Sheepdog) standard No. 313: https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/DUTCH-SHEEPDOG-313.html
- Blue Cross — Progressive retinal atrophy and eye conditions in dogs: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/health-and-injuries/eye-problems-in-dogs
- PDSA — Grooming your dog: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/grooming-your-dog
- RSPCA — Dog exercise and enrichment: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/exercise
Recommended for your Schapendoes
Matched to a Schapendoes's size and their typical need for regular coat care, enrichment & mental stimulation.
Rechargeable Pet Grooming Clipper Kit
A cordless rechargeable pet clipper with an LED battery display, supplied with six guide combs, a styling comb, oil and a cleaning brush. Quiet and easy to handle for trimming and tidying your pet's coat at home.
£26.99
Leucillin Antiseptic Skincare Spray for Cats & Dogs
A versatile, alcohol-free antiseptic spray that cleans, soothes, and helps protect your pet's skin from bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
From£16.49
Self-Moving Chew-Resistant Dog Ball
A USB-C rechargeable ball that moves on its own to keep dogs busy and active. Tough E-TPU construction stands up to chewing during supervised play, and the splash-resistant build suits indoor or outdoor use.
£15.99
Absorbent Cotton Gauze Swabs for Pets – Pack of 100
Highly absorbent, low-lint cotton gauze swabs produced in clean conditions — a practical first-aid essential available in three size and ply combinations.
From£4.49
Warm Stretch Snood for Dogs, Ear and Neck Cover, S, M and L
A stretch snood that gathers long ears back against the head and out of food bowls, puddles and brambles, knitted in a soft cationic-spandex blend in purple or blue.
£10.99
Electric Pet Grooming Clipper
A quiet, rechargeable electric clipper for trimming dogs, cats, rabbits and other pets at home. Low-noise and low-vibration with an adjustable blade for tidy, stress-free grooming around the body and paws.
From£11.99
Large Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Mats and Tangles
A self-cleaning slicker brush with fine, bead-tipped wire pins that gently lift loose undercoat, mats and tangles from short or long-haired pets. A one-click button releases the collected fur for fuss-free cleaning. Cat-ear shaped design.
£18.99
Plush Strawberry Snuffle Mat
An interactive foraging mat with removable plush strawberries that hide treats and kibble. Encourages natural snuffling and slows feeding, providing mental enrichment for dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs alike.
From£13.99
Suggestions based on breed traits — always check sizing and suitability for your individual dog.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.