Stabyhoun

Written by Jana Schubert
Stabyhoun

The not-so-common Stabyhoun has its roots in Friesland.

The Stabyhoun is a handsome and alert dog from the Dutch region of Friesland. At home, it’s valued as a dependable farm guardian and a pointing dog for hunting. Want to know more about this rare four-legged friend? Read on to discover more about the Stabyhoun.

Identifying the Stabyhoun: What does it look like?

At first glance, the Stabyhoun bears a strong resemblance to the Kleiner Münsterländer. It can weigh up to 27kg, presenting a well-balanced physique. Ideally, the breed should be neither excessively muscular nor too slender.

In a positive light, the Stabyhoun is wonderfully average: picturing how a child might draw a dog comes to mind.

Medium in size with horizontally set, round eyes, the Stabyhoun’s gaze is always alert yet exudes a friendly overall expression. Its floppy ears form a soft triangle and its slightly curved tail reaches down to the hock and is set quite low.

A coat as soft as if washed with fabric softener

The Stabyhoun’s trademark is its medium-length fur. If you find yourself constantly wanting to run your fingers through its slightly wavy hair, you’re not alone!

It’s irresistibly soft and silky. The coat mostly varies between black and white or black and brown shades, with longer fur on the torso than the legs.

stabyhoun puppy © Polarpx / stock.adobe.com
He’s not sounding the alarm yet, but once fully grown, the Stabyhoun will become a dependable yard dog.

Behaviour: Vigilant and shy around strangers

The independent Stabyhoun is content to amuse itself in its surroundings during the day. It naturally wants to guard its property and patrol its boundaries. It considers its home sacred and its duty to protect against any dangers.

The Stabyhoun is inherently peaceful towards humans. It doesn’t bite or become aggressive. However, it can often appear reserved or even shy around unfamiliar people.

Winning its trust takes time, but once the dog becomes accustomed to someone, it becomes very trusting and friendly.

Barking when visitors arrive

One thing should be noted: the Stabyhoun isn’t a barker by nature. However, it will regularly sound the alarm when something approaches its home. Visitors, the postman, or even returning family members should expect a vocal welcome.

If you keep the Stabyhoun in a flat against recommendations, noise can become an issue – think of noise pollution. But since the Stabyhoun is intelligent and trainable, such issues can be addressed at a dog training school.

Obedience and teachability

The Stabyhoun excels in dummy training, hunting, and tracking work, and is well-suited for competition dog sports. This breed’s natural obedience and teachability make it a great candidate for these disciplines.

Stabyhouns relish learning new things and pleasing their owners. They rapidly pick up new skills with their intelligence and high level of attention and can smoothly execute learned behaviours.

Various dog toys can keep the Stabyhoun stimulated, even if it isn’t overly playful. Variety keeps their mind sharp and their temperament balanced.

Stubborn streak Stabyhouns usually follow commands promptly. However, some owners report a certain stubbornness.

What should I consider when keeping a Stabyhoun?

The Stabyhoun thrives on guarding property and having plenty of free roam as a hunting dog. A home with some land is the ideal setting for this breed.

The Stabyhoun needs plenty of exercise

Though very adaptable, when living in an apartment, the Stabyhoun demands even more physical and mental stimulation.

Compensate for the limited space with long walks and nature trails. Without this, the dissatisfied dog might become rebellious due to sheer boredom!

Is the Stabyhoun a good family dog?

Novice dog owners can find joy with a Stabyhoun due to its amiable and easily directed nature. However, prepare for a touch of independence and a strong work ethic.

The breed generally gets along well with other dogs. However, it may eagerly chase cats up the nearest tree. It’s gentle and loving with the smallest of family members, and children can safely play and cuddle with this farm dog.

Remember these tips for Stabyhoun care:

  • The dog has a certain interest in independent excursions, so it should not be left unsupervised.
  • Beware of the hunting instinct: The Stabyhoun has strong hunting instincts. Opt for the lead more often when you’re in the forest.
  • The breed is deeply devoted to its owners. Thus, a too harsh or blunt training style deeply unsettles them. Educate with affectionate attention and friendly consistency.

Feeding: What does the Stabyhoun eat?

Quality dog food is key for a long and happy canine life – Stabyhouns are not fussy and enjoy both dry and wet food. They have sturdy stomachs and handle various foods well. However, this doesn’t mean feeding them leftovers is permissible!

  • The main part of their diet should be meat, making up about 80%. When shopping, avoid unnecessary additives, particularly those with sugar. Your dog might like it, but it’s not healthy.
  • Also, ensure that the food is appropriate for the dog’s age group.
  • The quantity of food should be based on size, weight, and activity level. If unsure, seek advice from a vet.

Raw feeding as an alternative

Barfing (biologically appropriate raw food) can suit the Stabyhoun, as it emulates the diet of wild canines. However, this approach requires significant effort from the owner. To successfully implement raw feeding:

  • Begin raw feeding after the first year of life. There’s a risk of malnutrition for puppies.
  • Transition your dog to raw food gradually. Its digestive system should adapt within several days.
  • Some dogs might not enjoy the taste of raw meat. Light barfing, where meat and vegetables are cooked before serving, can be an alternative.

Caring for a Stabyhoun

The Stabyhoun boasts long fur that’s considered self-cleaning. Dry dirt and mud tend to fall off on their own, posing little hassle.

Still, a good brush now and again is beneficial. Such grooming sessions can strengthen the bond between pet and owner and be fun when done playfully.

Health: A Long life with few illnesses

The Stabyhoun has a robust constitution with no breed-specific illnesses. Without sufficient exercise, it might get a tad plump, but this is easily remedied with controlled feeding and walks, regardless of the weather. Its fur is resilient to both cold and wet conditions.

How long does a Stabyhoun live?

With proper physical activity, feeding, and enough mental stimulation, the dog can live for approx. 14 years – ample time for wonderful experiences with your faithful companion!

Stabyhoun in water © Charlotte / stock.adobe.com
The coat of the Stabyhoun is especially weatherproof.

Origin and history: What is the Stabyhoun’s background?

The breed has likely been in the Dutch region of Friesland for quite some time. The actual origins are a topic of speculation. It’s hypothesized that the breed’s forebears may have been Spanish or French Spaniels imported to the Netherlands.

In the first half of the 20th century, the Wetterhoun was crossed in, possibly lending the Stabyhoun its weather-resistant fur. Since 1960, the Stabyhoun has been officially recognised by the FCI.

Stabyhound or Stabijhoun? Stabijhoun is the Dutch variant of the breed’s name.

Breeding and Acquiring: Where can I buy a Stabyhoun?

The Stabyhoun isn’t widely spread, its breeding mainly concentrated in its native Netherlands. You’ll likely need to travel to the Netherlands to purchase a Stabyhoun puppy.

Expect to wait a bit for an available puppy since the market is quite small.

How much does a Stabyhoun cost?

In the Netherlands, prices for Stabyhoun puppies vary from budget hobby breeders to more expensive professionals, ranging between €500 and €1,000.

Tip: Always ensure a clean breeding line and personally visit the breeding facility.

Conclusion on the Stabyhoun

The Stabyhoun is a well-rounded dog that faithfully guards home and farm. Its fluffy fur and all-round character are major advantages. It’s an uncomplicated companion for both active individuals and families.

The only patience required is in sourcing a puppy, but the commitment is worthwhile for a life expectancy of 14 years.

Stabyhoun at a Glance

Distinguishing Features:The Stabyhoun is a loyal, friendly pointer from the Netherlands, notable for its calm and vigilant nature. Its fur is especially weather-resistant.
Character:vigilant, teachable, friendly
Height at Withers:Male: 50 – 53 cm Female: 48 – 51 cm
Weight:Male: 22 – 27 kg Female: 18 – 23 kg
Coat:long, slight waves, pied in black, brown with white markings
Coat Care:not too demanding, regular brushing is beneficial
Exercise:enjoys movement, requires regular, extensive walks
Suitable for Beginners:suitable for beginners with proper training and sufficient activity
Barking:barks at visitors
Lifespan:13 – 14 years
Typical Illnesses:very robust health, no known breed-specific diseases
Price:€500 – €1,000
FCI Group:Group 7: Pointing Dogs
Origin:Friesland, Netherlands

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Jana Schubert
Profilbild von zooplus Magazin Autorin Jana Schubert

Since I was a baby, I preferred to cuddle with our Persian cat rather than with my teddy bear. Later I got on my parents' nerves until I was allowed to adopt a horse. I have had many memorable experiences with my pets. And even though life with animals is not always easy, I wouldn't consider any other because pets touch my soul like nothing else. I even feel this magic when I write about them, and I hope some of it touches you as well.


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