Stabijhoun

CalmAffectionateGentle with kidsReserved with strangersEager to please

The Stabijhoun is a calm, friendly, and steady dog from the Netherlands, bred as an all-round hunting companion. At home he is affectionate with his family and tends to be patient with children, though he can be reserved with strangers at first. He generally gets along with other dogs and can be trained well, responding best to gentle, consistent handling rather than harsh correction.

Day to day, he needs regular walks and time to use his nose, since scent work and tracking suit his instincts. He does best with a routine, enough exercise to stay content, and plenty of company, as he does not like being left alone for long stretches.

Good for: Active families, owners who enjoy scent work

Size	large
Weight	40–60 lb

Living with a Stabijhoun

Exercise

Plan on at least an hour of exercise daily, split between walks and sniffing or scent games. He enjoys hunting-style activities and having space to explore safely.

Grooming

His medium-length coat sheds year-round with heavier seasonal shedding. Brush several times a week, more often during shedding seasons, and bathe only as needed.

Health

The Stabijhoun is generally considered a healthy breed, but can be prone to hip dysplasia and certain eye conditions. Ask your vet about screening and appropriate checkups for your dog.

Questions owners ask

Do Stabijhouns shed a lot?

Yes, they shed year-round, with heavier shedding in spring and fall. Regular brushing several times a week keeps loose hair under control and helps reduce mess around the house.

Can a Stabijhoun live in an apartment?

It can work if you commit to daily walks and mental stimulation. They are calm indoors, but they do better with a home where someone is around for much of the day.

Do Stabijhouns bark a lot?

They are not known as excessive barkers, though they may alert you to visitors or unfamiliar sounds. Early training and enough exercise help keep barking manageable.