Pet Wiki

Stabyhoun

Also called Stabijhoun, Stabij, Beike, Fryske Stabij

Recognised breedFCI group 7Short profile

From The Netherlands, in the wooded areas of Friesland.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male22 to 27 kg1
Weight, female18 to 23 kg1
Height, male50 to 53 cm12
Height, female48 to 50 cm12
Lifespan13 to 15 years2
Sizemedium
gentle and patient with children
calm and quiet at home
versatile pointer and retriever
231

Coat and looks how to spot one

medium-long straight coat

A sleek, straight coat of medium length with a weather-resistant undercoat, short on the head and front legs, and feathering on the chest, legs, trousers and tail that makes it look longer-haired than it is. A slight wave is allowed only over the croup.14

Coloursblack and whitebrown and whiteorange and whiteblack roanbrown roan142

Personality what they are like

A soft-natured, affectionate and sensitive dog that is calm indoors yet quietly alert. It has an independent streak and may be reserved with strangers, but it is keen to please its own family and very tolerant of children and other animals.123

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate to high. A working pointer and retriever that enjoys daily walks, swimming and scent or retrieving games.34

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

A regular brush keeps the smooth coat and feathering tidy. Gentle, positive training suits its sensitive nature.12

Home where they are happiest

Happy in a family home with access to open space for walks and water.34

Company who they like around

Deeply devoted to its family and good with other pets.32

The story where it all began

Likely descended from spaniel-type dogs brought to the Netherlands during the Spanish occupation, the Stabyhoun was an all-round farm dog in Friesland from at least the early 1800s. After crossbreeding threatened it, members of the Kynologenclub Friesland began restoring it in 1938, and it was officially recognised in 1942.412

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its name comes from Frisian words roughly meaning 'stand by me dog'.2

  2. 2

    On Frisian farms it was valued as a skilled mole-catcher.2

  3. 3

    It is often called a Dutch national treasure.2

  4. 4

    It was barely known outside Friesland until the 1960s.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name Stabijhoun translates roughly to 'stand by [me] dog'.2

Name ideas for your new friend

FrisoDokkumBeikeLiekeJipSneekMarenTietFennaBaukjeRintjeSter

A day in the life told by a Stabyhoun

This morning I sniffed the dew on the grass and followed the scent of a rabbit. My human tossed a ball into the pond and I splashed after it, my tail wagging. Later, I curled up by the children as they played, keeping a gentle watch. At dusk, we strolled through the woods and I pointed at a pheasant. My human praised me with a soft pat. I love this quiet life.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 222, Group 7, Section 1.2 Continental Pointing Dogs, spaniel type; standard dated 29.05.2015. Officially recognised in the Netherlands in 1942.1
UKC
Recognised 1 January 1996 in the Gun Dog Group.4
AKC
Listed on the AKC breed pages (Foundation Stock Service breed).3

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Stabyhoun. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

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

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Stabyhoun, and at what times?

Your Stabyhoun will do best with at least two measured meals each day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Feed at regular times that work for your family, like morning and evening. Let the food label and your vet guide exact amounts, as every dog is different.5

What should a Stabyhoun eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A complete, balanced dog food that suits your Stabyhoun’s age and activity level is perfect. Always keep grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, chocolate, and onion or garlic away from your dog, these can be very harmful. For any concerns about diet, ask your vet.6

How often should I bathe a Stabyhoun?

Furry Diary’s starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, or about three times a year as a minimum. Your Stabyhoun’s weather-resistant coat stays clean with brushing, so only bathe when truly needed. Use a gentle dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Stabyhoun need brushing?

A weekly brush will keep your Stabyhoun’s smooth, medium-length coat and feathering looking tidy and free of tangles. For the feathered areas, a gentle comb can help. Regular brushing also spreads healthy oils and makes your dog feel loved.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Stabyhoun's nails, and how often?

Furry Diary suggests trimming every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Trim a little at a time, stopping before the pink quick, and use a proper nail clipper. If you’re unsure, ask a vet or groomer to show you the first time.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Stabyhoun need?

Your Stabyhoun is an active, working breed that enjoys daily walks, swimming, and fun retrieving or scent games. Aim for at least 30, 60 minutes of activity each day to keep them happy and calm indoors. A mix of mental and physical exercise suits their sensitive, clever nature.34 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Stabyhoun's teeth and ears?

Brush your Stabyhoun’s teeth two to three times a week with a dog-safe toothpaste, daily is ideal. Check their floppy ears weekly and gently dry them after swimming or baths, never pushing anything inside. These simple habits help prevent problems and keep your friend comfortable.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Stabyhoun live?

Your Stabyhoun can be your loyal companion for 13 to 15 happy years. With good care, regular vet visits, and lots of love, they often stay healthy well into their senior years. Enjoy every moment with this wonderful breed.2

Is a Stabyhoun good with children and other pets?

Yes, absolutely, Stabyhouns are known for being tolerant and gentle with children and get along wonderfully with other animals. They are deeply devoted to their family and thrive in a home where everyone is included. Their calm, affectionate nature makes them a fantastic family dog.123

Can a Stabyhoun be left alone?

Stabyhouns are very family-oriented and may feel lonely if left alone for long periods. How well they cope varies by individual, so it’s best to ask a good breeder or your vet for guidance tailored to your dog. Gradual alone-time training can help them feel secure.

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.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. FCI Standard No. 222, Stabijhoun fci.beused for origin, recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. Wikipedia: Stabyhoun en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, lifespan, history, fun facts
  3. AKC: Stabyhoun akc.orgused for temperament, working style
  4. UKC Stabyhoun breed standard ukcdogs.comused for UKC recognition, coat, colours, history
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.