Nederlandse Kooikerhondje Club of Southern California

10 Reasons NOT to get a Kooikerhondje

 

1. Did you say no?
Kooikers are generally too smart to engage in out-and-out dominance

battles. Instead they sense a weak will, and exploit it. If you are unable

to be firm (kind, but firm) about the rules of your household, and to

enforce them consistently, you will find that the ruler of your house

has four legs.
 

2. They are very smart.
This is a dog with brains to spare. They need to be challenged and

engaged by their work. Keeping all that intelligence focused and busy

is a big challenge. All Kooiker owners must be willing to do basic

obedience training ideally for at least the first two years.

3. They are sensitive.
Kooikers are physically and emotionally sensitive. You have to be careful with how much pressure you apply in training.
 

4. They are not everyone’s friend.
Most Kooikers will greet strangers, but generally reserve true enthusiasm for their family and special people.
 

5. Do you have small children or plan to have children in the future?
Many Kooikers do fine with children when raised with them from puppyhood. However, others are too sensitive and reactive to live with the loud noises and unexpected movements to which young children are prone.

6. They do not necessarily like every dog they meet.
Most Kooikers do well with their “pack”. Many do not like dogs with whom they are not familiar. They require a large “personal space” in their interactions with other dogs, making dog parks inadvisable.
 

7. They have prey drive.
Most will chase anything that runs. Making a great “recall” a necessity.

8. Shedding!
Kooikers shed profusely at least two times per year.

9. They are dogs.
They like to roll in smelly things and wallow in mud. They are not for the fastidious.

10. They are not guard dogs.
Kooikers are generally wary of strangers and will not stand up to them. They will not guard you or your house