The good-natured hunting dog breed Kooikerhondje is an affectionate family friend. Believed to be an ancestor of the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, they come from the Netherlands and were used to lure ducks into traps for hunting. They still serve as hunting dogs, but also excel in other dog sports.
History
The Kooikerhondje is an old Dutch breed that was bred to lure ducks into traps. The Kooikerhondje can be seen in paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries, but did not become an official, recognized breed until June 18, 1966. Unfortunately, by the end of World War II, when the supply of ducks was dwindling and the Kooikerhondje was out of work, the breed was close to extinction.
In 1939 Baroness Van Hardenbroek van Ammerstol decided to revive the Kooikerhondje. The Baroness lived alone in a very large mansion and was devoted to her dogs. She was a rather eccentric woman and had her dogs eat with her. Each dog sat with her at the table on its own chair. During World War II, the Baroness helped many Allied pilots flee from the Germans and used her dogs to lead the men through the woods to the Belgian border.
The Baroness was also involved in the rescue of several other Dutch breeds (the Keeshond and the Drentse Patrijshond). To rebuild the Kooikerhondje, the Baroness drew up a detailed description of the ideal dog and asked traveling salesmen to look for a dog that met these criteria. Finally, her efforts were rewarded when word came back of a female dog named Tommie on a farm in the northern province called Friesland.
Personality
Friendly, good-natured and alert, the Kooiker is an excellent family companion with watchdog skills, as well as athletic ability that makes him a natural in games such as agility and flyball. As a retriever, he also loves retrieving, especially in the water. His exercise needs are adaptable: A long, slow walk around the block or a strenuous hike will suit him just as well. Just be sure to get him in good shape before you start him on strenuous exercise.
Known disorders
- Patella luxation (loose kneecap)
