Dutch Smoushond Puppies for Sale

Recognized by: FCI

About the Dutch Smoushond

The Dutch Smoushond, or Hollandse Smoushond, is a small, rough-coated terrier-type breed once common as a stable dog and ratter in the Netherlands, where it also became a fashionable companion for gentlemen. It has a shaggy, harsh yellow to straw-colored coat, a bearded face, and a friendly, expressive appearance. Cheerful, affectionate, and even-tempered, the Smoushond is less intense than many terriers and makes a devoted family companion that enjoys human company. Historically valued for controlling vermin in stables, it retains a lively, alert nature and moderate energy. Nearly lost after the World Wars, the breed was carefully reconstructed and remains rare, appealing to owners drawn to a charming, low-key ratting companion.

Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.

Typical tendencies

Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.

Exercise needsTypical
Energy levelTypical
TrainabilityTypical
Grooming effortTypical
SheddingLower than most
BarkingTypical
Apartment fitHigher than most
Good with childrenHigher than most
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersHigher than most

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Where this breed shines

  • Cheerful, affectionate, and even-tempered for a terrier type
  • Good with children and other dogs
  • Adaptable to apartment life with moderate exercise

Things to consider

  • Very rare, so breeders are difficult to find outside the Netherlands
  • Harsh coat needs regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping
  • Limited breed-wide health data due to small population

History

The Dutch Smoushond originated in the Netherlands in the 19th century as a stable dog and rat-catcher that also became a popular pet among Dutch gentlemen. The breed nearly went extinct around the World Wars, and a reconstruction effort begun in the 1970s used related rough-coated dogs to revive it. It is recognized by the FCI and the Dutch Kennel Club but remains uncommon even within its homeland.

Temperament

Smoushonds are friendly, cheerful, and affectionate, with a gentler, more even temperament than many terriers. They enjoy the company of their families, tend to be good with children and other dogs, and are alert without being excessively noisy. Lively and playful, they adapt well to home life when given regular activity.

Questions to ask a Dutch Smoushond breeder

  • Given the small population, how do you manage genetic diversity in your lines?
  • Have the parents had any known health issues, and are they health-checked?
  • What is the temperament of the parents around children and other pets?
More buyer-safety guidance →

Health considerations to discuss

Limited genetic diversity. The small reconstructed population makes careful breeding important to avoid inbreeding.

Patellar luxation. A common small-breed knee issue worth checking in breeding stock.

Skin and coat conditions. The harsh coat needs proper care to keep skin healthy.

Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) · The Kennel Club (UK) — written by PuppyList editorial

Questions worth asking about any Dutch Smoushond litter

  • Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
  • What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
  • How was the litter raised and socialized?
  • What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
  • What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Read the full buyer safety checklist →

Frequently asked questions

How do I buy a Dutch Smoushond puppy on PuppyList?

Browse the Dutch Smoushond listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.

How can I tell if a Dutch Smoushond breeder is trustworthy?

Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.