Schapendoes
Male: 15-20 kg, Female: 12-17 kg
Male: 43-50 cm, Female: 40-47 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Netherlands
About the Schapendoes
The Schapendoes, or Dutch Sheepdog, is a lightly built, long-haired herder known for its remarkable jumping ability and tireless work ethic. Originally developed in the Netherlands for tending sheep, this breed was nearly lost during World War II but was revived by dedicated enthusiasts who valued its intelligence and agility. It is characterized by its shaggy appearance, which includes a prominent moustache and beard, giving it a friendly and rustic look. Despite its tousled appearance, the Schapendoes is a finely tuned athlete, capable of turning on a dime and maintaining high speeds across uneven terrain. In a home environment, the Schapendoes is an affectionate and spirited companion. They are 'thinking' dogs that enjoy problem-solving and being involved in all family activities. Their temperament is inherently joyful, often described as having a 'sunny' disposition. While they are independent enough to work solo with a flock, they form deep bonds with their human 'pack' and require consistent mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their versatility makes them excellent candidates for dog sports such as flyball, agility, and obedience, where their natural athleticism and eagerness to please can truly shine.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Schapendoes is defined by its 'springy' and light-footed gait, moving with a ground-covering stride that seems effortless. The breed standard emphasizes a body that is slightly longer than it is tall, providing the necessary leverage for agility. Their coat should appear naturally tousled—never overly groomed or sculpted—showcasing the rustic integrity of a working dog.
Bred For
Herding and driving sheep flocks in the province of Drenthe and the Veluwe.
Temperament
Lively, courageous, intelligent, and cheerful. They possess a great deal of endurance and an independent nature while remaining loyal to their family.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
The Schapendoes is generally a hardy breed, but genetic predispositions include (specifically g-/crd4), (), and occasionally .
Exercise Needs
High.
Grooming Needs
Moderate to High. They have a long, shaggy coat that requires thorough brushing at least once or twice a week to prevent matting, particularly in the dense undercoat.
Living Suitability
Not ideally suited for small apartments. They thrive in homes with a secure yard or acreage where they can run freely. They are best suited to active households.
Good with Kids
Generally very good with children, especially when raised with them. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for active older children.
Good with Other Pets
Usually good with other dogs and can live with other pets if socialized early, though their herding instinct may lead them to 'gather' other household animals.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and quick to learn, though they possess an independent streak that requires patient, positive reinforcement and variety in training routines.
Coat & Colours
Long, thick, and slightly wavy double coat with a dense undercoat. The texture is harsh and dry rather than silky.. All colors and combinations are permitted, though blue-grey to black is most common.
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
Prospective owners should be aware that the Schapendoes is predisposed to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), a genetic condition that can lead to vision loss; while this is a serious consideration, many dogs live full lives with proper management and early screening. Their magnificent coat is more likely to develop mats if not brushed regularly, particularly behind the ears and in the feathering—this is easily managed with a consistent grooming routine. They can be prone to ear infections due to the hair growth within the ear canal trapping moisture, so regular checking and cleaning are recommended. Being a herding breed, they may exhibit a strong prey drive or a tendency to nip at heels during play; however, this is simply an expression of their working heritage and can be redirected through training and play. Some Schapendoes are more likely to experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without mental engagement, but they settle beautifully when they feel like a central part of the family dynamic. Like many active herding breeds, they may develop digestive sensitivities on standard commercial diets—this doesn't mean every Schapendoes will, but many thrive significantly better on a tailored fresh-food diet that avoids unnecessary fillers.
Feeding Guide for Your Schapendoes
Healthy Weight
12-20 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
300-600 grams per day
For an adult Schapendoes, a fresh food diet should focus on high-quality proteins like Majestik Beef or Kangaroo to maintain lean muscle. Based on an average weight of 15kg, they require approximately 300g to 450g of fresh food daily, split into two meals. This amount should be adjusted based on their individual activity level, as highly active herding dogs may require the upper end of that range (3% of body weight) to sustain their metabolism.
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-protein, nutrient-dense diet is best to support their high energy levels. They thrive on fresh, raw diets rich in animal fats and essential fatty acids for coat health.
Including Majestik Fish options provides Omega-3 fatty acids which are vital for maintaining the health of their long, harsh coat. Add a small portion of pureed leafy greens to mimic the stomach contents of natural prey. Given their high activity levels, ensuring adequate fat intake from sources like Majestik Lamb can provide sustained energy.
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.
Schapendoes 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 Schapendoes? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
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
Secure Checkout
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.