Origin
The Kooikerhondje is a small dog that originates from the Netherlands where they are highly prized for the job they were bred to do which is to lure ducks into hunter’s traps and nets. Some people believe these charming dogs are the founding stock for the Nova Scotis Duck Tolling Retriever and they are sometimes referred to as the Kooiker Hound. Over recent years Kooikers have gained recognition and popularity with many people in other parts of the world which includes here in the UK thanks to their charming looks and loyal, affectionate personalities although very few puppies are bred and registered with The Kennel Club every year.
The Kooikerhondje originates from the Netherlands and are a breed that has been around for hundreds of years. They were developed during the 16th century to work as duck tolling dogs which saw them drive the birds into hunter’s cages and nets. These charming dogs were extremely popular during the 17th and 18th century and were often depicted in paintings by the old Dutch masters namely Rembrandt and Jan Steen.
However, by the beginning of the 20th century, the breed's popularity dropped and as such their numbers fell dangerously low which nearly saw the breed vanishing altogether at the outset of World War II. Luckily, through the efforts of breed enthusiasts, the Kooiker was saved from extinction with the breed finally being recognised by the Dutch Kennel Club in 1971.
Today, they are recognised by The Kennel Club although their classification was changed from gundog to utility in 2013. It is widely accepted that the Kooikerhondje also contributed to the development of the Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever and although these charming dogs are gaining popularity as companions and family pets here in the UK, their numbers remain very low. As such anyone wishing to share their home with a Kooiker would need to register their interest with breeders and agree to being put on a waiting list because so few puppies are bred every year.
