Page 240 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

Kooikerhondje

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN
14–16in 20–24lb 12–13 years
(35–40cm) (9–11kg)

This cheerful, energetic dog makes a friendly pet, but its
FOILING AN ASSASSIN
love of open spaces means it is not suited to city life
In the 17th century Dutch masters depicted
similar dogs to the Kooikerhondje in paintings
This Dutch breed goes by several names, Hardenbroek van Ammerstol rescued and
of family groups, such as Jan Steen’s painting The including Kooikerhondje and Dutch Decoy restored the breed. Today the Kooikerhondje
Way You Hear It Is the Way You Sing It (below).
Spaniel, which describe its unusual role. The remains rare, but is becoming more popular
Kooikerhondjes were well regarded as loyal and
affectionate companions, and one dog named Kooikerhondje was traditionally used for in Europe and North America. The dog
Kuntze is accredited with saving the life of Prince hunting ducks and other waterfowl. Romping continues to perform its traditional task of
William II of Orange (1626–50). One night and waving its flaglike tail, never barking, it luring waterfowl, but is now used mostly by
during the war between Holland and Spain,
would attract the attention of waterfowl and conservationists working to tag and release
Kuntze woke William to warn him of intruders— lure them into a tunnel-shaped trap on the birds. Some Kooikerhondjes have also been
and saved him from being assassinated.
water, called a kooi in Dutch. Hunters could trained for search and rescue work. The
From that day on the grateful prince kept
a Kooikerhondje by his side. then catch the bird alive. breed makes a playful, good-natured family
Dogs of this type have existed since dog, although it is perhaps too sensitive for
at least the 16th century, but by the 1940s life with young or boisterous children. It is
the Kooikerhondje had become almost dedicated to its owners but can be aloof
extinct. A noblewoman named Baroness van toward strangers.

White blaze
Drop ears Alert, almond-shaped, on face
covered in deep brown eyes
long, silky hair

Shorter hair
Well feathered on face
tail

Long hair
on neck
forms ruff

Orange-red
patches on
pure white

Sleek, slightly
wavy coat

Feathering
on front legs
Small, harelike feet

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