Pet Wiki

Dutch Smoushond

Also called Hollandse Smoushond, Dutch Ratter, Smous

A happy, warm-hearted little dog that enjoys people and brings plenty of spirit to family life.

SizeSmall
Weight7 to 11 kg (15 to 24 lb)12
Height35 to 42 cm (14 to 17 in)males 37 to 42 cm, females 35 to 40 cm1
CoatWiry, harsh, straight, with undercoat
OriginThe Netherlands, where it was kept as a ratter in stables in the 19th century.13
GroupPinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs (FCI group 2)
Recognised breedShort profile
affectionate
cheerful and friendly
lively but not nervous
12

Personality what they are like

A happy, warm-hearted little dog that enjoys people and brings plenty of spirit to family life. It is active and alert without being jumpy, and it was bred first as a companion and stable helper.12

Coat and looks how to spot one

wiry, harsh, straight, with undercoat

A small, compact and sturdy terrier-like dog with a broad, short head and high-set drop ears. Its coarse, straight coat is about 4-7 cm long and deliberately looks a little tousled, with a beard, moustache and eyebrows framing the face.123

Coloursyellow in any shade (dark straw preferred)12

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
  • 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 10every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate: daily walks and play keep it content, and its ratting background means it enjoys games that involve searching and chasing.13

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The rough coat is meant to look natural and unstyled; regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping of loose hair keep it tidy and prevent tangles.12

Home where they are happiest

Its small size and friendly nature let it fit into town or country homes, provided it gets regular outings.12

Company who they like around

A true companion breed that likes being close to its family and generally gets on well with people.12

The story where it all began

In the 1800s these rough-coated little dogs kept stables in Dutch towns free of rats and were sold as 'gentleman's stable dogs'. A first standard was drawn up in 1905, but the breed faded after the war years and the last litter was registered in 1949. From 1973 Mrs H.M. Barkman rebuilt the breed, and the FCI recognised it in 1981.132

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    'Smous' is an old Dutch word used for a rough, bearded look, and 'Dutch' was added to set it apart from the Brussels Griffon.1

  2. 2

    It was marketed in the 19th century as the 'gentleman's stable dog'.1

  3. 3

    The modern breed exists thanks to a reconstruction project started in 1973 by breeder H.M. Barkman.2

  4. 4

    The FCI accepted it straight onto a definitive basis in 1981, with no provisional stage.4

  5. 5

    Its breed club, the Hollandse Smoushonden Club, has looked after the breed since 1978.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Smous' refers to the breed's rough, bearded appearance, as Jewish men (called 'Smouzen' in the 1800s, a slur deriving from the name Moses) had beards and long hair. The 'Dutch' prefix was added to distinguish it from the similar Brussels Griffon.3

Name ideas for your new friend

PipToscaJipFienBorisMiesKeesNoorRikLotSjaakFleur

A day in the life told by a Dutch Smoushond

This morning I found a sock under the bed and carried it to the kitchen for praise. I love following my human from room to room, my rough coat brushing against the furniture. At the park I sniff every blade of grass and chase a falling leaf. Back home, I curl on the sofa and watch the window for birds. When my human laughs, I wag my whole body. It's a simple life, full of small joys and warm laps.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 308, Group 2, Section 1.3 Pinscher and Schnauzer type (Smoushond); definitive recognition 11 March 1981; standard dated 16.03.2012.4
Raad van Beheer (Dutch Kennel Club)
Recognised national breed.3
UKC
Terrier Group, recognised 2006.2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

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

Blueberry Oat Biscuits

These simple, three-ingredient biscuits are full of fibre and antioxidants from blueberries, and are easy to make in small sizes for toy and small dogs.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • a little water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C.
  2. Mix the mashed banana, oats and chopped blueberries together in a bowl.
  3. Add splashes of water a little at a time, stirring until the mixture comes together in one large ball.
  4. Roll the mixture out on a lightly floured surface to about 1–2 cm thick.
  5. Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes suitable for a small dog.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes until slightly browned.
  7. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Give one small biscuit per day for a toy or small dog, and reduce their main meal accordingly.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Frozen Yoghurt and Fruit Treats

These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for warm days and use simple, dog-safe ingredients. Yoghurt provides calcium and probiotics, while strawberries and apple add vitamins and natural sweetness.

You need

  • 30g plain, unsweetened yoghurt (no additives or sweeteners)
  • 2-3 medium strawberries (washed and chopped)
  • Half a small apple (cored and chopped into small pieces)

How

  1. Wash the strawberries and apple thoroughly. Core the apple and chop both fruits into small, bite-sized pieces.
  2. Mix the chopped fruit together in a small bowl.
  3. Place a few pieces of fruit (no more than five) into each compartment of a small silicone mould or ice cube tray. Each mould should be roughly 30mm x 25mm x 17mm or smaller.
  4. Pour the plain yoghurt over the fruit, filling each mould to the top.
  5. Place the mould or tray in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully frozen.
  6. Pop the treats out of the moulds and serve immediately.

How much: Small dogs can have one treat per day; medium/large dogs can have two per day. These count towards the 10% treat allowance, so reduce your dog's main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

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 Dutch Smoushond, and at what times?

Feed your Dutch Smoushond at least two meals a day for an adult, or three to four smaller meals for a puppy. This matches general dog care advice that stomachs empty within a few hours. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.15

What should a Dutch Smoushond eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a balanced, high-quality dog food suitable for its age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as these are especially harmful to dogs. Always avoid giving human treats without checking with your vet first.16

How often should I bathe a Dutch Smoushond?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often only if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep its natural coat oils.17 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Dutch Smoushond need brushing?

Brush your Dutch Smoushond weekly to keep its rough, wiry coat tidy and prevent tangles. Pet Wiki's plan recommends brushing every 7 days. Occasional hand-stripping of loose hair also helps maintain its natural look.12 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails every 21 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.17 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Dutch Smoushond need?

This breed needs moderate daily walks and play to stay content. Its ratting background means it enjoys games like searching and chasing. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily walks and playtime to keep it happy.13 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush its teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears weekly since floppy ears trap moisture. Gently dry the ears without pushing anything inside. Regular vet check-ups help catch any issues early.17 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Dutch Smoushond live?

The typical lifespan varies, but senior years usually start around age 10. For specific longevity, ask your vet or a good breeder, as individual health and care play a big role.1 Pet Wiki plan

Is a Dutch Smoushond good with children and other pets?

Yes, this is a happy, warm-hearted breed that generally gets on well with people and other pets. It was bred as a companion and stable helper, so it enjoys family life. Always supervise interactions with young children and introduce new pets gradually.12

Can a Dutch Smoushond be left alone?

This is a true companion breed that likes being close to its family, so it may not enjoy long periods alone. It can be left for short times if well-exercised and given toys, but it's best to avoid regular long absences. For specific advice, ask a good breeder or your vet.12

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? [email protected].

  1. FCI Standard No. 308 Hollandse Smoushond fci.beused for history, size, weight, coat, colour, temperament
  2. UKC Dutch Smoushond breed standard ukcdogs.comused for recognition, size, coat, temperament
  3. Dutch Smoushond - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, history, recognition
  4. FCI nomenclature: Hollandse Smoushond fci.beused for recognition status and date
  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.