Stabyhoun

Breed Origin

In the 19th century, literature often depicted dogs that bore a resemblance to the Stabyhoun. Joost Halbertsma, for example, referred to a dog named Bijke, describing him as a “long-haired piebald,” a “talented hunting dog,” and “a companion to children.” The ancestry of the Stabyhoun can be traced back to the Drentsche Patrijshond and the Heidewachtel. This breed emerged in Friesland, particularly from the wooded areas in the southeastern and eastern parts of the province. Its name is derived from the phrase “sta mij bij,” which means “stand by me,” combined with “houn,” the Frisian word for dog. It is thought that some of its forebears arrived in the Netherlands during the Spanish occupation of the northern territories. Many historians note a strong connection between the Stabyhoun and the Small Munsterlander. Originally, the Stabyhoun was used for hunting moles, skunks, and rats, as well as acting as a watchdog and pursuing wild hares. This adaptable breed was commonly found on small farms but has largely evolved into a companion animal. In the early 20th century, the Stabyhoun was often crossbred with the Wetterhoun, a practice that nearly led to the extinction of both breeds. In 1938, Stabyhoun enthusiasts formed the Kynologenclub Friesland to begin efforts to purify the breed. The Stabyhoun gained official recognition from the Kynologenclub Friesland in 1942, and the first breed standard was established in 1944. The Dutch Association for Stabyhouns and Wetterhouns was created in 1947, and today, there are around 6,000 Stabyhouns worldwide.

Care Routine

The Stabyhoun has a medium-length coat that is resistant to both weather and dirt. To keep it clean, regular brushing—ideally once a week—is recommended to remove dirt and loose hair. For any tangles in the feathering, start with a pin brush and follow up with a metal comb. Bathing should be limited to about twice a year or as needed, especially if he gets into something particularly unpleasant. This breed does shed seasonally, with two main periods each year when he loses a significant amount of his undercoat, making daily brushing crucial during these times. Nail trimming should be done every two to three weeks as necessary, and his ears should be checked weekly and cleaned when required. It's also important to establish a dental care routine; brush his teeth weekly with dog-specific toothpaste and consider scheduling a professional cleaning annually to maintain optimal oral health.

Play & Exercise