Kooikerhondje
Male: 9-11 kg, Female: 9-11 kg
35-42 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Netherlands
About the Kooikerhondje
The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a striking, medium-sized spaniel-type dog with a rich history as a Dutch duck decoy dog. Characterised by its beautiful orange-red patches on a white background and its distinctive black-tipped 'earrings,' this breed possesses an elegant yet sturdy build. Historically, they worked in partnership with the 'kooiker' (decoy man), using their white-plumed tails to lure curious ducks into traps without barking, which required a calm and focused temperament. In a domestic setting, the Kooikerhondje is an intelligent and sensitive companion that thrives on being part of the family circle. They are highly versatile, excelling in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and tracking. While they are affectionate with their owners, they retain a level of independence and a 'thinking' nature, making them best suited for owners who enjoy active engagement and positive reinforcement training methods.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Kooikerhondje must display a harmonious balance of elegance and functional capability. Their movement is light and springy, covering ground with an easy, flowing gait that reflects their agile history. A standout feature is the 'earrings'—long, black-tipped hairs on the ears that must be present to meet the breed standard. Their structure should be slightly longer than tall, with a level topline and a characteristic white-plumed tail carried level or slightly above the back. What truly sets the Kooikerhondje apart is this unique combination of a rustic working spaniel's hardiness with a refined, almost aristocratic appearance, highlighted by the vibrant contrast of their orange-red patches against a snow-white coat.
In Australia
The Kooikerhondje breed's formal introduction to Australia took place in 2013, when the first dogs were officially imported into the country. These Kooikerhondjes were imported by John Golder and Lucinda Golder, as recorded by the Kooikerhondje Club of Australia.
Bred For
Duck decoying; specifically used in an 'eendenkooi' (duck decoy) to lure ducks into traps (pipes) using their bushy, white-tipped tails.
Temperament
Alert, agile, self-confident, and good-natured. They are devoted to their family but can be reserved and cautious with strangers.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
( Type 1), Hereditary Necrotising Myelopathy (ENM), , and various eye conditions including and .
Exercise Needs
Moderate to high.
Grooming Needs
Moderate. Their water-repellent coat requires brushing once or twice a week to prevent matting, especially behind the ears and on the 'breeches' and tail.
Living Suitability
Suitable for houses with a yard; can adapt to apartment living if provided with significant daily outdoor exercise and mental enrichment.
Good with Kids
Good with children who are respectful of their space; better suited to homes with older, calm children due to their sensitive nature.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs if socialised early; may have a moderate prey drive toward small animals given their working history.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and quick to learn, but sensitive to harsh corrections; they require a gentle, consistent, and reward-based approach.
Coat & Colours
Medium-long, straight or slightly wavy, close-fitting, and water-repellent with a well-developed undercoat.. Distinct patches of clear orange-red on a white base, with characteristic black hair tips on the ears (known as 'earrings').
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Kooikerhondje is a sensitive breed that can be prone to environmental sensitivity and cautiousness around strangers; early and ongoing socialisation is essential to build their confidence. They are more likely to experience genetic conditions like Von Willebrand's Disease and ENM—while many breeders test for these, it is a vital consideration for prospective owners to ensure they select from health-screened lines. Their double coat sheds moderately year-round and can trap debris, necessitating regular brushing to avoid 'doggy' odours and matting. Owners should also be mindful of their intelligence; without adequate mental tasks, they can become bored and independent. They are also prone to ear infections due to their floppy, feathered ears, so weekly ear checks are a must. These quirks are simply part of their observant and clever nature, and they thrive when given a clear routine and a loving, calm environment.
Feeding Guide for Your Kooikerhondje
Healthy Weight
9-11 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
200-330 grams
For a healthy adult Kooikerhondje, feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily in high-quality fresh or raw food. For a typical 10kg dog, this equates to 200-300g per day. Adjust portions based on individual activity levels and metabolic rate to maintain a lean physique.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, nutrient-dense diet rich in animal proteins and Omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and their signature silky coat. They respond exceptionally well to fresh, raw diets.
A balanced raw diet for a Kooikerhondje should focus on high-quality proteins such as Australian Beef, Kangaroo, or Lamb, which are available through Majestik Pet Food. Including oily fish like sardines or salmon provides essential Omega-3s for coat lustre and joint support. Since they are prone to ENM and other neurological or joint concerns, avoiding fillers like corn or soy is beneficial to reduce systemic inflammation.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Kooikerhondje Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Kooikerhondje? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-7 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.