15 Things You Must Know Before Bringing Home a Schapendoes Puppy
You saw the shaggy smile and bright eyes and thought, that is our dog.
Great news: the Schapendoes really is as fun and affectionate as it looks.
Here is the straight-to-it guide we wish we had — the good, the goofy, and the grooming — so you are ready from day one.
1. A True Herding Brain, Not Just a Cute Mop
Under the fluff is a sharp, agile herding dog bred to think on the fly with shepherds in the Dutch fields.
Expect quick learning, problem-solving, and a dog that watches you closely — and invents its own fun if you do not provide it.
2. Daily Energy Needs: Plan on 60–90 Minutes
Walks alone are not enough. Mix brisk walks with fetch, off-leash romps in safe areas, or agility-style play.
On busy days, trade length for quality: scent games and training sessions tire the Schapendoes brain more than marching in circles.
3. Early Socialization Shapes Their Sensitivity
They are friendly but can be a touch sensitive to novelty if undersocialized.
In the first 16 weeks, gently introduce surfaces, sounds, friendly dogs, and kind people. Keep sessions short and positive to build optimism.
4. Positive, Patient Training Works Best
They thrive on rewards and variety. Harsh corrections shut them down; boredom sparks mischief.
Keep sessions snappy and end on a win. Rotate cues, tricks, and games to keep that bright mind engaged.
5. Rock-Solid Recall Is Non-Negotiable
This is an athletic, springy dog with chase instincts. A reliable recall protects them when curiosity spikes.
Start on a long line, pay big for success, and practice in new places weekly. Make coming to you the most rewarding game in town.
6. Grooming: The Right Tools Make It Easy
The coat is abundant and wavy with an insulating undercoat. Plan for thorough brushing several times a week to prevent mats.
Pin brush + greyhound comb
For day-to-day detangling and checking down to the skin.
Slicker (soft)
Lift minor tangles in friction zones without roughing the coat.
Detangling spray
Helps release small knots; work in sections.
Grooming table or mat
Stability makes sessions calmer and faster.
7. Bathing and Trimming: Natural Coat, Minimal Clipping
Bath every 6–8 weeks or when truly dirty, then dry thoroughly to the skin to avoid damp mats.
Keep feet, sanitary areas, and corners of the eyes tidy. Most owners keep the breeds natural, weather-shedding outline rather than a short clip.
8. Shedding and Allergies: Manage Expectations
They are not hairless and not guaranteed hypoallergenic. Expect light daily hair with seasonal heavier sheds.
Regular brushing and a high-quality diet reduce loose hair, but allergy sufferers should meet adults before committing.
9. Health Screening: Hips and Eyes Matter
Like many medium herding breeds, key screenings include hip evaluations and ophthalmic exams for inherited eye disease such as progressive retinal atrophy.
Ask breeders for clear, documented results from recognized schemes and meet relatives when possible to assess temperament and soundness.
10. Rarity Affects Waitlists and Price
The Schapendoes is uncommon in many regions, which means fewer litters and potential waitlists.
Work with established breed clubs and mentors. Be wary of anyone offering immediate puppies with no health proof or contract.
11. Living Space: Yard Optional, Enrichment Mandatory
They can thrive in apartments if you reliably meet exercise and mental needs.
Use puzzle feeders, sniffy walks, and training games. A yard is nice, but structure and variety matter more.
12. Kids, Cats, and Other Pets
Generally affectionate and playful with respectful children.
Herding tendencies may show as gentle nudging or circling. Teach boundaries early and supervise to redirect excitement into cues and games.
13. Weather and Outdoor Life
The double coat insulates against chill and sheds water reasonably well.
In heat, that same insulation can trap warmth. Exercise during cool hours, provide shade and water, and trim paw hair for traction rather than shaving the coat.
14. Travel and Alone Time
They bond closely and prefer to be with you. Crate-train early so hotels, cars, and vet visits feel normal.
Build alone-time tolerance in minutes, not hours, at first. A stuffed frozen Kong and a calm exit routine prevent vocal protests.
15. Budget: The Real Ongoing Costs
Beyond the purchase price, plan for quality food, training classes, and grooming tools.
Annual costs typically include checkups and vaccines, parasite prevention, insurance if you choose it, and replacements for toys and enrichment that keep this clever dog content.
Sviatoslav Oleksiv founded The Pets and Love in 2019. A lifelong pet owner and Rhodesian Ridgeback enthusiast, he writes and edits our guides to help fellow pet parents give their animals the best care.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.