Chien de Pays
Breed Description

The Chien de Pays is known internationally as the Stabyhoun or Stabijhoun in its native Frisian language. The name translates roughly to "stand by me dog," reflecting the breed's loyal and devoted nature as a constant companion to farmers and families. In the Netherlands, where the breed originated, it is also sometimes called simply "Stabij" by enthusiasts and breed fanciers.

The breed hails from the Dutch province of Friesland, specifically from the forested region of eastern and southeastern Friesland. Historical references to this breed appear in early 19th century Frisian literature, including works by notable authors such as Joost Halbertsma, Waling Dijkstra, and Nynke fan Hichtum. In these texts, the breed was described as a "long-haired piebald" and praised as both "a child's friend" and "a good hunting dog."

Today, the Stabyhoun is considered a Dutch national treasure and is one of the rarest dog breeds in the world, with only a few thousand Stabyhouns existing worldwide. The majority of these dogs still reside in the Netherlands, though the breed has gained a small but devoted following in the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, and North America in recent years. The breed's rarity makes it a special and unique companion for those fortunate enough to own one.

The Stabyhoun received official breed recognition from the Dutch Kennel Club in 1942, marking an important milestone in the preservation of this rare breed. Prior to this recognition, the Stabyhoun was often crossed with another old and rare Frisian breed, the Wetterhoun, whose rugged coats and huskier physiques made the resulting dogs more robust for farm work. However, to prevent the extinction of both increasingly rare breeds and to preserve their distinct characteristics, crossbreeding between the Stabyhoun and Wetterhoun ceased altogether after the official recognition was established.

In 1912, though focused on a related breed, breed preservation efforts in the region laid groundwork for maintaining rare Dutch hunting dogs. The first official Stabyhoun breed standard was written to ensure consistency and quality in breeding programs. Within the Netherlands today, there are strict rules and guidelines regarding the breeding of the Stabyhoun, overseen by the Dutch Stabyhoun Association. The association requires breeders to contact breed advisors before breeding to ensure genetic diversity and maintain low rates of inherited health conditions while steadily increasing the population size.

Internationally, the breed has gained recognition from several major kennel clubs. The American Kennel Club accepted the Stabyhoun into its Foundation Stock Service in 2006, which is the first step toward full recognition and the ability to compete in all AKC-sanctioned events. The breed belongs to Group 7, Pointing Dogs, within the FCI classification system, reflecting its heritage as a versatile hunting dog. Various national breed clubs have formed in countries where the Stabyhoun has gained popularity, including the Ameri-Can Stabyhoun Association in the United States and the UK Stabyhoun Association in the United Kingdom, both dedicated to preserving the breed's working abilities and gentle temperament.

• American Kennel Club (AKC): "Foundation Stock Service (2006)"
• United Kennel Club (UKC): "Not Currently Recognized"
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Recognized - Group 7, Pointing Dogs"
• The Kennel Club (UK): "Not Currently Recognized"
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Not Currently Recognized"

The Chien de Pays is a sturdily built, long-coated pointing dog with a body that is greater in length than height. The breed should be neither too coarse nor too refined in build, presenting a balanced and functional appearance. The skin fits the body closely with no dewlap and minimal excess lip. Dogs display distinct masculine features while females show more refined, feminine characteristics, making sex easily distinguishable at a glance.

The head is strong and elongated without being exaggerated, with a relatively broad skull that is slightly domed. The ears are one of the breed's most distinctive features - they are high set, medium in length, and shaped like a mason's trowel with rounded tips. The hair on the ears is long at the top and gradually becomes shorter toward the last third of the ear, where it is quite short. The eyes are somewhat rounded and should be dark brown in dogs with black and white coats, or lighter brown in dogs with brown and white coats, conveying an intelligent and gentle expression.

The coat is one of the Stabyhoun's most typical characteristics. It is sleek, long, and fine in texture, lying relatively flat against the body. While a slight wave over the croup is permissible, the coat should never be curly, as curling suggests crossbreeding and disqualifies a dog from being considered purebred. The hair on the back of both front and hind legs is bushy rather than feathered, as is the tail. The chest features a fuller coat, and there is often a pronounced collar of longer hair around the neck. The breed's coat is weather-resistant with a dense undercoat.

Most Stabyhouns display a striking black and white coat pattern, typically with a solid black head and white-tipped tail. Brown and white variations also occur, sometimes with roan or ticking throughout. The body is powerful with well-developed, rounded ribs and a wide brisket. The back is straight with a slightly sloping croup, and the loin is powerful. The tail is long, reaching to the hock, set low, and carried downward with a gentle upward bend at the tip. The breed stands on large, well-developed feet that enable them to walk, swim, and climb for extended periods.

The Stabyhoun is one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds originating from the Netherlands, with roots deeply embedded in the rural landscapes of Friesland. The breed has been present in Friesland for centuries, though it remained relatively unknown outside its native province until the 1960s. The first Stabyhouns didn't leave the Netherlands until the early 2000s, when the breed began to attract international attention from dog enthusiasts.

The ancestors of the Stabyhoun can most likely be traced to the Spanish Spaniel, or "span joel" in Dutch, which came to northern Netherlands during the Spanish occupation. There is probable genetic relationship between the Stabyhoun, the Small Munsterlander, and the Drentsche Patrijshond, all of which share similar working abilities and physical characteristics as versatile hunting dogs. These breeds developed in neighboring regions and may have shared common ancestors in the distant past.

Historically, the Stabyhoun was the dog of the common farmer - the "little guy," day laborers, and small landholders who could not afford to keep multiple specialized dogs. Poor farmers in the forested Friesland region needed a single, versatile dog capable of performing multiple roles on the farm. The Stabyhoun rose magnificently to this challenge, proving itself as an exceptional all-around working dog. These dogs were used extensively for hunting foxes, small game, and birds during hunting season. They served as skilled mole-catchers year-round, helping farmers control pest populations that could damage crops and pastures.

The breed's versatility extended far beyond hunting duties. Stabyhouns guarded property and livestock, warning families of approaching strangers or potential threats with their alert bark. They caught and killed pests such as rats, polecats, and skunks, keeping farms clean and preventing disease. Some farmers even used these strong dogs as cart dogs, having them pull small loads around the farm. Throughout all these roles, the Stabyhoun remained a faithful and reliable family companion, beloved for its gentle nature with children.

As both a soft-mouthed retriever and pointer, the Stabyhoun was particularly useful for hunting ducks and upland birds. The breed is an excellent swimmer with a natural love of water, and water work remains one of its strongest abilities today. When hunting, the dog would wait steadily and calmly for the shot, then retrieve game alive and undamaged. When catching moles and other vermin, the Stabyhoun would kill through breaking the neck while leaving the fur undamaged - a valuable trait when pelts had economic value. The breed marks well, is easily controlled over great distances, and is an eager searcher, making it an ideal working companion for hunters.

In 1942, the Stabyhoun received official recognition as a distinct breed from the Dutch Kennel Club, and the first breed standard was written in 1944. This official recognition was crucial for the breed's preservation, as it established guidelines for breeding and helped prevent the Stabyhoun from being absorbed into or confused with similar breeds. The recognition also coincided with the cessation of crossbreeding with the Wetterhoun, ensuring both rare Frisian breeds would maintain their unique characteristics.

Today, the Stabyhoun enjoys a small but devoted following among Dutch sportsmen and families. While British and German hunting breeds remain more popular for hunting purposes, the Stabyhoun continues to demonstrate its competent hunting abilities when given the opportunity. The breed has also found success in modern dog sports, excelling in agility, flyball, obedience competitions, and tracking trials. These activities allow the breed to showcase the intelligence, athleticism, and trainability that made it such a valuable farm dog centuries ago. The slow but steady increase in the breed's numbers offers hope for its continued survival, though dedicated breeding programs and international cooperation remain essential to prevent this Dutch national treasure from disappearing.

The Chien de Pays is celebrated for its amiable and gentle personality, making it an excellent family companion and working partner. The breed's temperament is fundamentally friendly, sensitive, intelligent, calm, patient, and biddable, though individuals may occasionally display a stubborn streak inherited from their independent working heritage. Known for exceptional loyalty and affection, this breed thrives on human interaction and forms remarkably strong bonds with family members.

The Stabyhoun's gentle disposition is perhaps most evident in its interactions with children. The breed demonstrates extraordinary tolerance toward young children, remaining patient even when tots clamber all over them. They possess a laid-back temperament that makes them wonderful playmates for kids, and they genuinely love the attention and affection children provide. This characteristic tolerance has earned them a reputation as ideal family dogs, particularly for households with active children who enjoy outdoor activities.

With strangers, the Stabyhoun can be somewhat reserved initially, though they are rarely aggressive or overly shy. Early and thorough socialization helps ensure these dogs develop confidence around new people and situations. While they serve as effective watchdogs who will bark to alert their owners of new activity or strangers approaching, they typically warm up to visitors once properly introduced. Some individuals welcome both wanted and unwanted guests happily, while others are more discerning, making them reliable protectors of their domain when family members are away.

The breed's intelligence is immediately apparent to anyone who works with them. As versatile working dogs, Stabyhouns needed the ability to think independently and solve problems while performing various farm tasks. This intelligence makes them highly trainable and excellent at learning new skills, whether for work, sport, or companionship. However, their independent thinking can sometimes manifest as stubbornness, particularly if the dog doesn't understand the purpose of a command or finds something more interesting to focus on - such as an intriguing scent.

Stabyhouns display a characteristic independence that was deliberately bred into the line. Farmers needed dogs capable of working on their own initiative, making decisions while hunting or patrolling the farm without constant human direction. This independence remains evident today, and without proper guidance and consistent training, a Stabyhoun can develop into a difficult and unstable dog. However, with appropriate leadership, patience, and positive reinforcement training methods, this breed becomes an adorable and devoted companion who channels their intelligence and independence appropriately.

The breed's temperament has contradictory aspects that make them endlessly interesting. While they are highly active and energetic outdoors, pursuing scents and activities with enthusiasm, they possess a remarkable "off switch" indoors. When adequately exercised, Stabyhouns are polite, calm housemates who relax quietly and peacefully. This dual nature makes them adaptable to various living situations, provided their exercise needs are consistently met through daily walks, outdoor play, and mental stimulation.

The Chien de Pays makes an outstanding family companion for the right household. This breed thrives in homes where they are considered full family members, included in activities, and given ample attention and affection. They are not suited to living isolated in a backyard kennel or being away from their people for extended periods, as their loyal and social nature means they truly want to "stand by" their owners throughout the day.

Families with children will find the Stabyhoun to be an ideal match. The breed's exceptional tolerance and patience with kids, combined with their playful nature and sturdy build, makes them wonderful childhood companions. They can keep up with active children during outdoor play, enjoy games of fetch and swimming, yet remain gentle and careful around smaller children. However, as with any dog, supervision during interactions between dogs and young children is essential to ensure both parties learn appropriate behavior and boundaries.

While adaptable, the Stabyhoun is not ideally suited for pure city apartment living. This breed needs space to move freely and access to outdoor areas where they can exercise, explore, and satisfy their natural instincts. A home with a securely fenced yard is highly recommended, as the breed's hunting heritage means they may be inclined to pursue interesting scents or chase small animals if not properly contained. The fence should be above-ground and sturdy, as these intelligent dogs can become accomplished escape artists when bored or under-stimulated.

The breed generally coexists well with other household pets when properly introduced and socialized from puppyhood. Their friendly disposition extends to other dogs, and many Stabyhouns enjoy having canine companions. However, caution is advised with very small pets such as hamsters, mice, or pet birds, as the breed's strong hunting instincts for such creatures may prove difficult to overcome. Cats that are raised alongside the Stabyhoun from an early age can become accepted family members, though supervision during initial introductions is wise.

Stabyhouns need significant daily exercise to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. Long walks where they can sniff and explore are ideal, and they particularly relish opportunities to swim, honoring their water-loving heritage. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, these intelligent and energetic dogs can become depressed, destructive, or develop behavioral problems such as excessive barking or digging. Activities such as agility training, flyball, obedience work, or tracking games provide excellent outlets for their energy and intelligence.

The breed's inquisitive nature means they are always investigating their environment and can sometimes find themselves in trouble through their curiosity. Owners should remain aware of what their Stabyhoun is exploring and be prepared to offer assistance if the dog's curiosity leads them into a difficult situation. This attentiveness also helps prevent the dog from engaging in unwanted behaviors such as digging or escaping from inadequately secured areas. With proper exercise, training, socialization, and inclusion in family life, the Stabyhoun becomes a devoted, well-behaved, and treasured family member who enriches the lives of everyone in the household.

Training a Chien de Pays requires understanding the breed's intelligent, independent nature and responding with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods. These dogs are highly trainable and eager to please their owners, but they are also independent thinkers who need to understand the purpose behind commands. Harsh training methods are counterproductive with this sensitive breed, who may become shut down or resistant if treated roughly or unfairly.

Early socialization is absolutely essential for Stabyhoun puppies. Exposure to diverse people, environments, animals, and experiences during the critical socialization period helps shape them into well-rounded, confident adult dogs. Puppy kindergarten classes provide excellent opportunities for socialization while beginning basic obedience training in a structured environment. Taking puppies on outings to meet neighbors, encounter different stimuli, and experience various situations contributes significantly to developing a stable, adaptable temperament.

Basic obedience training should begin as soon as the puppy arrives home. Teaching fundamental commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and loose-leash walking establishes communication between dog and owner while building the dog's confidence. Stabyhouns respond exceptionally well to reward-based training using favorite treats, toys, and praise as motivators. Their intelligence means they quickly understand what behaviors earn rewards, though their independent streak means they may occasionally choose to ignore commands if something more interesting captures their attention.

Recall training deserves special emphasis with this breed due to their strong scenting abilities and hunting heritage. When a Stabyhoun detects an interesting scent, their instinct is to follow it determinedly, potentially leading them far from home or into dangerous situations. Practicing recall frequently in various environments, gradually increasing distractions, and always rewarding the dog generously for returning helps ensure they will come when called even when following their nose. Many owners keep Stabyhouns on leash in unfenced areas to prevent them from wandering after scents.

The breed excels in various dog sports and activities that channel their intelligence, athleticism, and working heritage. Agility courses allow them to showcase their speed, flexibility, and problem-solving abilities. Flyball combines speed with the retrieving instincts they possess naturally. Obedience competitions demonstrate their trainability and desire to work cooperatively with handlers. Tracking and nose work trials tap into their scenting heritage, providing mental stimulation while honoring their hunting background. These activities strengthen the human-dog bond while keeping the Stabyhoun mentally and physically engaged.

Exercise requirements for this breed are substantial and non-negotiable for maintaining a happy, well-behaved dog. Daily walks of significant duration are the minimum requirement, with longer hikes, runs, or swimming sessions ideal for meeting their activity needs. They are keen and active dogs outdoors who need opportunities to run, play, and explore to satisfaction. Mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, scent games, and varied activities is equally important as physical exercise, as these intelligent dogs need challenges to prevent boredom.

When exercise needs are met, Stabyhouns transform into calm, polite house dogs. However, insufficient exercise leads to behavioral problems including destructiveness, excessive barking, digging, or escape attempts. Owners should plan for at least one to two hours of exercise and mental stimulation daily, recognizing that puppies and young adults may need even more activity. The reward for meeting these needs is a well-adjusted companion who is peaceful indoors yet ready for adventure whenever opportunities arise.

The Chien de Pays is generally considered a healthy and robust breed with relatively few breed-specific health concerns. With proper care, nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary attention, these dogs typically enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, which is quite good for a medium-sized breed. Their longevity allows families to enjoy many years of companionship with these devoted dogs.

Recent genetic studies conducted by the Dutch Government and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Utrecht University have examined the most prevalent inherited conditions within the breed. One important finding was a relatively low inbreeding coefficient of approximately 4.5 percent among registered dogs, which is favorable compared to many purebred dogs. However, the small worldwide population means maintaining genetic diversity remains crucial for the breed's long-term health.

Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) is a skeletal disorder that has been identified in the breed. This condition is characterized by shortened limbs and abnormal early degeneration of the spinal discs, also known as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which predisposes affected dogs to disc herniation. While not every dog with the genetic markers will develop clinical symptoms, awareness of this condition helps breeders make informed breeding decisions and allows owners to monitor for signs such as back pain, difficulty walking, or neurological symptoms.

Von Willebrand's Disease Type 1 is a blood clotting disorder that has been documented in Stabyhouns. This hereditary condition typically causes mild bleeding tendencies, though some affected dogs may experience more severe signs. The disease results from low levels of von Willebrand's factor, a blood protein essential for stabilizing blood clots. Owners should inform veterinarians about this potential condition before surgeries or dental procedures to ensure appropriate precautions are taken.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) has been identified as occurring more commonly in Stabyhouns than in the general dog population. The ductus arteriosus is a blood vessel that is essential for fetal circulation but should close shortly after birth. When it fails to close properly, inappropriate shunting of blood occurs from the aorta to the pulmonary artery. Most affected puppies are found to have a heart murmur during their first veterinary health check. Without surgical correction, dogs with PDA typically develop heart failure within one to two years and have a poor prognosis.

Hip dysplasia, while not as prevalent as in some larger breeds, can occur in Stabyhouns. This developmental condition affects the hip joint's proper formation, potentially leading to arthritis and painful movement over time. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for hip dysplasia to reduce its occurrence. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing appropriate exercise helps minimize the impact if dysplasia develops.

Regular veterinary care forms the foundation of keeping a Stabyhoun healthy throughout their life. Annual wellness examinations allow veterinarians to detect potential problems early when they are most treatable. Core vaccinations protect against serious infectious diseases, and the vaccination schedule should be tailored to the individual dog's lifestyle and risk factors. Parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm prevention should be administered year-round according to veterinary recommendations.

Dental care is often overlooked but crucial for long-term health. Professional dental cleanings performed under anesthesia, combined with regular home dental care, help prevent periodontal disease that can affect not only oral health but also major organs. Weight management is important, as obesity can exacerbate joint problems and shorten lifespan. Feed a high-quality diet in appropriate portions and ensure adequate daily exercise.

Screening tests recommended for breeding Stabyhouns may include hip evaluations, cardiac examinations, and genetic testing for known hereditary conditions. Even if you're not planning to breed, discussing available health screenings with your veterinarian helps you understand your dog's health status. Blood work performed periodically helps monitor organ function and detect potential issues before clinical symptoms appear. With proactive, preventive healthcare combined with prompt attention to any concerning symptoms, most Stabyhouns enjoy long, healthy, active lives as beloved family companions.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your Chien de Pays's health and longevity.

The Chien de Pays has moderate grooming needs that are quite manageable for owners willing to maintain a regular schedule. The breed's long, sleek coat with its slightly wavy texture and dense undercoat requires weekly brushing to prevent matting, remove dead hair, and distribute natural oils throughout the coat. During seasonal shedding periods in spring and fall, more frequent brushing - perhaps two to three times weekly - helps manage the increased hair loss and keeps the coat looking its best.

A slicker brush or pin brush works well for the longer outer coat, while an undercoat rake helps remove loose undercoat during shedding seasons. Pay particular attention to areas where the hair is longer and fuller, including behind the front and rear legs, the chest, around the neck, and the bushy tail. These areas are more prone to tangling if neglected. The coat on the ears requires special care due to its varying length - longer at the top and shorter toward the tips.

One advantage of the Stabyhoun's coat type is that it should never be curly or heavily feathered. The hair should be sleek and relatively flat against the body, which naturally resists heavy matting compared to fluffier coat types. The coat is also weatherproof and somewhat self-cleaning, having been developed to withstand the wet, cold conditions of the Netherlands. Bathing is only necessary occasionally when the dog becomes particularly dirty, as frequent bathing can strip natural oils and reduce the coat's weather-resistant properties.

Ear care deserves attention in this breed due to their medium-length, hanging ears which can trap moisture and debris. Check ears weekly for signs of redness, odor, or discharge that might indicate infection. Clean ears gently with a veterinarian-recommended solution when needed, and ensure ears are thoroughly dried after swimming or baths to prevent moisture-related issues. The breed's love of water means extra vigilance about ear health is warranted.

Nail trimming should be performed regularly, typically every three to four weeks, or whenever nails become long enough to click on hard floors. Long nails can cause discomfort and affect the dog's gait. If you're uncomfortable trimming nails yourself, a groomer or veterinarian can perform this service. Getting puppies accustomed to nail trimming early makes the process easier throughout the dog's life.

Dental hygiene is important for long-term health. Brush your Stabyhoun's teeth several times weekly using dog-specific toothpaste and a soft brush. Regular dental care helps prevent periodontal disease, tooth loss, and systemic health issues that can arise from poor oral health. Providing dental chews and appropriate chew toys supplements brushing by helping to mechanically clean teeth.

Regular health checks during grooming sessions allow you to spot potential issues early. While brushing, examine the skin for lumps, bumps, irritations, or parasites. Check the eyes for discharge or redness. Look at the paws and between the toes for cuts, foreign objects, or pad injuries, especially after outdoor adventures. This hands-on time strengthens your bond with your dog while helping maintain their health and appearance.

If you're looking to adopt a Chien de Pays, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Chien de Payss waiting for their forever homes.