Facts & Origin
Stabyhoun - the Dutch breed in breed profile
The Stabijhoun or simply Stabij is a very rare hunting and farm dog even in its Dutch homeland.
The origin of the Stabijhoun
A Stabijhoun was originally nothing special in the Frisian regions of the Low Countries. He developed quite casually as a versatile working dog. "Stabihoun" or the correct Dutch spelling "Stabÿhoun" means something like "dog that stands by me".
His traditional duties were many and varied. It accompanied his masters on hunts, guarded the house and livestock. Because it was so ordinary, he was not given much attention for a long time. All that is known about his breeding history is that the breed was refreshed around 1940 by crossbreeding with the Wetterhoun.
Nevertheless, this dog is one of the five rarest dog breeds in the world today. In the meantime, Dutch as well as foreign fanciers are trying to re-establish this great dog as a family companion.
The breed characteristics of the Stabijhoun
The Stabijhoun looks a bit like many dogs you have seen somewhere before. To some, it initially reminds them of a setter, a border collie, or even a Kleiner Münsterländer. Nevertheless, this medium-sized and very friendly dog is a Frisian original. In the meantime he is officially part of the Dutch cultural heritage.
During the hunt it shows a specialized behavior, the pointing. It suddenly stops in the direction of the target as if rooted to the spot. The hunter then knows exactly where the game it has spotted is and can take its shot.
The Stabijhoun is not a highly professional hunting dog, but also perfectly suitable as a family and house dog.
The FCI lists the Staby under Standard No. 222, Group 7 and Section 1: Continental Pointing Dogs.
- versatile Dutch working and family dog
- very rare breed
- for work or as a sporting companion
| Alternate Name | Stabij |
| Origin | Netherlands |
| Life expectancy | 12 - 14 years |
| Care requirements | high-maintenance |
| Activity level | average to high |
| FCI group | Continental Pointing Dogs |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
The typical characteristics of the Stabijhoun
A Stabyhoun is uncomplicated and easy to keep. Nevertheless, it should not be kept in a pure city apartment. It is considered very loyal to its home, but wants to be able to move freely and generously within the area. If you want to keep it balanced and healthy, it needs to be kept busy. Long walks, hiking tours or games of fetch will please this active fellow.
The Stabijhoun has an extremely friendly yet alert nature. It loves his family, is loyal and affectionate.
It is a passionate and very independent rabbit and mouse hunter. If small animals are in the house, caution is advised.
- uncomplicated and versatile dog
- needs exercise and moderate occupations
- people friendly and open
Usage
Health and breeding information
Breeding, acquisition and keeping the Stabij.
There are some breeders at home and abroad. For a pedigree animal with papers you will have to pay from 1000 Euro. Hobby breeders give Stabijhoun puppies also around 500 Euro.
Appearance and coat of the Stabyhoun
It has very harmonious body lines, is stable without being overbuilt. The coat is fine, soft and long. In places it may be slightly wavy. On the legs he wears "trousers".
The markings are black or brown with white markings. There are also black and brown moulds. The head is short haired, expressive with loyal eyes. The large ears hang down to the side. The Stabijhoun has a very long and well furnished tail, which it carries loosely with a slight swing backwards.
- harmoniously built physique
- long brindled or moldy coat
- large ears and loyal look
Size, weight and life expectancy of the Stabijhoun
- height at withers males around 53 cm
- height at withers bitches around 50 cm
- weight males 23 to 25 kg
- Weight bitches about 20 kg
- Life expectancy 12 to 14 years
| Fur length | medium |
| Fur | - |
| Ear shape | Floppy Ear |
| Tail | lang |
| Anatomy | slim, strong, sporty |
| Size ♀ | 45 - 50 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 14 - 20 kg |
| Size ♂ | 50 - 53 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 23 - 25 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
