Dutch Smoushond
Cheerful, affectionate, and lively, this small companion thrives on family life. Distinct shaggy coat and playful spirit make every day brighter.
Breed Characteristics

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
37–42 cm (male)
35–40 cm (female)
WEIGHT
9–11 kg (male)
8–10 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–15 years
Dutch Smoushond: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Dutch Smoushond isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Dutch Smoushond's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Dutch Smoushond is known for its friendly, cheerful, and affectionate nature, typically forming close bonds with family members and showing a gentle disposition toward children and other pets.
Key Personality Traits
Warm and sociable with people and pets
Quick learner, responds well to training
Lively, enjoys regular walks and activity
Likes games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living situations

Strengths
- Friendly with children and other dogs
- Eager to please and trainable
- Low grooming requirements due to wiry coat
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Alert and makes a good watchdog
Challenges
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Needs regular mental stimulation
- May develop separation anxiety if left alone
- Prone to barking when bored
- Limited availability outside the Netherlands

Protect your Dutch Smoushond
Dutch Smoushond can develop cataracts and patellar luxation. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Dutch Smoushonds are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Quick learner
Overall rating
This breed is intelligent and eager to please, making it generally responsive to training with positive reinforcement methods, though consistency and patience are important for optimal results.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
45–60 minutes daily
recommended per day
Dutch Smoushonds have moderate energy levels and need daily walks and play sessions, along with mental stimulation, to stay healthy and content, but they do not require excessive exercise.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Dutch Smoushonds are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Dutch Smoushond would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Responsive and eager to please, Dutch Smoushonds adapt well to novice owners.
Apartment Living
They can live in apartments if given regular outdoor activity and mental stimulation.
Active Lifestyle
This breed thrives in households with daily exercise and engaging playtime.
Kids
Dutch Smoushonds are gentle and patient with respectful young children.
Multiple Pets
They generally coexist peacefully with other dogs and pets when socialized early.
Being Left Alone
They dislike being left alone and may develop separation anxiety if left for long periods.
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Dutch Smoushonds compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dutch Smoushond
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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