medium-length, fine, soft, straight, with feathering
A dainty, lightly built little black spaniel type with a gentle expression, a long uncurled tail and a silky, medium-length coat that forms feathering on the ears, legs and tail.1
Alert and cheerful but very sociable, greeting visitors warmly. It loves joining its people on outings, yet copes well with being left alone for a few hours, and with good introductions it can live with cats and small pets.12
Daily activity how busy a day looks
More active than a lap dog: it enjoys long walks and a good run.2
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Regular brushing keeps the soft coat and its feathering free of tangles.1
Home where they are happiest
Its small size and adaptable nature suit a house or apartment, provided it gets daily walks.12
Company who they like around
A companion breed that likes being with its family, but is relaxed enough to spend a few hours on its own.1
The story where it all began
Small black spaniel-like dogs resembling the Markiesje appear in Dutch paintings of the 17th and 18th centuries. In the early 20th century the Dutch dog writer Toepoel suggested such dogs could be restored as a breed, and focused breeding of today's Markiesje began in the mid-1970s.12
Dogs that look like Markiesjes but have no pedigree are called 'look-alikes' in the Netherlands.1
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Three Dutch breed clubs work together on the breed's health and development.1
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Lookalike little black dogs appear in Dutch paintings from the 1600s and 1700s.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Markiesje' is the Dutch word for 'little marquis' or 'little marquess', and the breed is also known as the Dutch Tulip Dog or Hollandse Tulphond. The breed's history is linked to paintings from the 17th century in France, Germany, and the Netherlands, where small black dogs resembling the Markiesje were depicted.3
I wake up to the smell of coffee and the sound of my human's laugh. I stretch, wag my tail, and trot to the front door to greet the morning postman with a happy yip. After a long walk through the park, I chase a falling leaf and then curl up in my sunny spot. Later, I help my human in the garden, sniffing tulips and chasing a bumblebee. When visitors come, I give each a warm welcome, then settle down for a cozy nap on the sofa. It's a simple, cheerful day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
Raad van Beheer op Kynologisch Gebied in Nederland
Recognised nationally in the Netherlands as a companion breed (listed under FCI group 9 companion breeds on the Raad van Beheer site).1
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
Preheat your oven to 175°C.
Mix the mashed banana, oats and chopped blueberries together in a bowl.
Add splashes of water a little at a time, stirring until the mixture comes together in one large ball.
Roll the mixture out on a lightly floured surface to about 1–2 cm thick.
Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes suitable for a small dog.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes until slightly browned.
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.
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 Markiesje, and at what times?
Feed your Markiesje at least twice a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Regular meal times like morning and evening work well. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4
What should a Markiesje eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A balanced diet of quality dog food is best for your Markiesje. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, and xylitol, which are especially harmful to dogs.5
How often should I bathe a Markiesje?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Markiesje need brushing?
Regular brushing keeps your Markiesje's silky coat free of tangles. Furry Diary suggests brushing weekly, but you may need to brush more often if feathering tangles easily.16Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Markiesje's nails, and how often?
Trim your Markiesje's nails every three weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a proper nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Markiesje need?
Your Markiesje is more active than a lap dog and enjoys long walks and a good run. Daily walks and playtime will keep it happy and healthy.21Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Markiesje's teeth and ears?
Brush your Markiesje's teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check its floppy ears weekly and keep them dry; never push anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Markiesje live?
Lifespan varies for each dog. Your vet or a good breeder can give you a better idea based on your Markiesje's health and lineage.
Is a Markiesje good with children and other pets?
Your Markiesje is a sociable, cheerful companion that can live happily with cats and small pets when introduced properly. It loves being with its family and is generally good with children.12
Can a Markiesje be left alone?
Yes, your Markiesje can be left alone for a few hours. It's a relaxed companion that enjoys its own company for short periods.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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