Originating from the Friesland area of the Netherlands, the Stabyhoun has been known to be in existence since the 1800s. However, it wasn't until 1942 before the Dutch Kennel Club recognized the Stabyhoun as an official breed. This is an exceedingly popular breed in the Netherlands but many outside of its native country know about this magnificent dog breed.

The name "Stabyhoun" is taken from the Dutch "sta me bij hond" which translates to "stand by me dog". Sometimes referred to as the Stabij, the Stabyhoun has a somewhat resemblance to a setter-spaniel cross. This breed has also been called the Stabijhoun, Dutch Stabyhoun, and the Friesian Pointer. The average shoulder height ranges 18 to 19 inches with females being somewhat smaller than males. This is a medium to large size dog breed with an average weight of 33 to 44 pounds, again males typically weighing more than the females.

The coat of the Stabyhoun is long and sleek, short around the head area, and the tail has a bushy-feathering appearance. Coat colors include white with either black, blue, liver, or orange markings. The head is narrow and the eyes are brown. The ears are folded or "trowel-shaped" and the tail is long, sets low, and hangs straight. Typically a healthy breed, the Stabyhoun has been known to suffer from hip dysplasia, a problem in which breeders have been working to elimate from this breed.

The Stabyhoun is easy to care for, requiring only regular grooming. Regular brushing is needed to keep the coat in good condition. Bathing is not recommended as it may affect the natural sleekness of the coat's appearance. This is an energetic breed and will need ample space and sufficient amounts of exercise which is typical for this type of dog breed. Stabyhouns that do not receive proper training or liberal amounts of exercise may exhibit bad behaviors due to pent up energy.

This breed is currently recognized by the ASA, FCI, UKC, ACR, and AKC. Accepted colors by the AKC include black and white, brown and white, and orange and white with accepted markings of roan, spotted, and ticked. The AKC classifies the Stabyhoun in the Sporting Group. The Stabyhoun Association of the United States and Canada or Ameri-Can Stabyhoun Association states that currently only 200 Stabyhouns can be found within the US and Canada. According to the AKC, approximately 50 are registered within the US with the first recorded US litter being born in 1994.

In its native land, the Stabyhoun is known as a versatile sporting dog but has gained popularity as a family pet and companion. This breed has many of the same behavioral characteristics seen in the American Labrador Retriever. Owners describe this breed as affectionate, easily trainable, energetic, and lovable. Highly intelligent and friendly, the Stabyhoun is also known for its docile temperament. Its calm personality suits well with children which is why this dog has become as popular as a family pet as it has as a sporting dog.

References:

THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DOG BREEDS, by Joan Palmer, copyright 1994

http://stabyhoun.us/

http://www.akc.org/breeds/stab yhoun/history.cfm

www.stabyhouns.org

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