A friendly, loyal and clever dog that bonds closely with its family and is known for being sweet with children. It is fairly easy-going indoors and keen and cooperative in the field.123
how to spot oneDrentse Patrijshond coat and colours
medium, feathered
A well-balanced, muscular gundog with a dense, straight coat over a water-resistant undercoat, longer on the ears and neck and feathered on the legs and tail.12
Colourswhite with brown markingswhite and brown with tickingbrown roan12
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Drentse Patrijshond. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
by countryIs the Drentse Patrijshond legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Drentse Patrijshond in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksDrentse Patrijshond exercise needs
A working gundog that needs regular exercise and enjoys outlets such as field work, retrieving and swimming.13
the hands-on bitsDrentse Patrijshond grooming and care
The dense coat does well with regular brushing, paying attention to the feathering.1
who they like aroundDrentse Patrijshond with people and other pets
Strongly attached to its household and happiest when included in family life.3
where it all beganDrentse Patrijshond history
The Drent descends from spaniel-type dogs that reached the Netherlands from Spain via France in the 16th century. Farmers in rural Drenthe kept the type pure for centuries as an all-round hunting and farm dog, and it was officially recognised in 1943. It is related to the Small Münsterländer and the Epagneul Français.123
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
When a Drent catches the scent of game, its tail often swings in a circular motion.1
2
Dogs of this type appear in 17th-century Dutch paintings, such as Gabriel Metsu's The Hunter's Present.3
3
Unlike many continental pointers, the Drent keeps its natural full tail.4
4
It was bred by farmers for farmers, expected to hunt both fur and feather and help around the farm.4
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed name Drentsche Patrijshond comes from the Dutch province of Drenthe and its historical use as a hunting dog for partridge (patrijs in Dutch).5
This morning, I woke up to the smell of coffee and the sound of my human's keys. I knew it was time for our walk, and I did my happy dance, which always makes them laugh. We headed to the park, where I proudly carried a stick halfway home before dropping it at my human's feet, hoping for a throw. Back inside, I curled up on my bed, keeping one eye on the kids as they played. When they laughed, my tail thumped. In the afternoon, my human took me to the pond, and I splashed in after a ball, feeling the cool water on my fur. Now, I'm watching the sunset, tired and happy, ready to do it all again tomorrow.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 224, Group 7 Pointing Dogs, Section 1.2 Continental pointing dogs, Spaniel type; standard dated 04.04.2016.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Drentse Patrijshond, and at what times?
Feed your adult Drentse Patrijshond at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Times can fit your schedule, but consistency helps their digestion. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.6
What should a Drentse Patrijshond eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A balanced dog food suited to their age and activity level is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, garlic, and raw bones. Always consult your vet for a tailored diet plan.7
How often should I bathe a Drentse Patrijshond?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, but you can adjust based on how dirty your dog gets. General guidance is at least once every three months to keep their coat healthy.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Drentse Patrijshond need brushing?
Pet Wiki's starting plan is to brush your Drentse Patrijshond every week, paying extra attention to the feathered areas. Regular brushing keeps their dense coat healthy and reduces shedding.18Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Drentse Patrijshond's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Drentse Patrijshond need?
Your Drentse Patrijshond needs daily exercise, including walks and play. They enjoy retrieving and swimming, so mix in activities that engage their gundog instincts.13Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Drentse Patrijshond's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Drentse Patrijshond live?
Lifespan varies for each dog, so ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations for this breed.
Is a Drentse Patrijshond good with children and other pets?
Yes, the Drentse Patrijshond is known for being sweet with children and bonds closely with its family. They are generally good with other pets when properly socialized, but always supervise introductions.123
Can a Drentse Patrijshond be left alone?
This breed is very attached to its family and prefers to be with them. They may struggle with long periods alone, so consider their need for companionship. For specific advice, ask a good breeder or trainer.3
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Small Münsterländer
Stabyhoun