Group 8 · Retrievers & spaniels
Kooikerhondje
The Kooikerhondje was used in duck decoys, where its white plumed tail lured ducks into the trap. It is cheerful, sensitive and strongly attached to its family.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Nederlands Kooikerhondje by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 2 examinations:
- 1 DNA test
- 1 kneecap examination
The breeding programme also recommends 2 further examinations.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (2)
-
Hereditary necrotising myelopathy (HNM)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- IBA57:c.2448_2449insTGAAGTCC
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Patellar luxation (PT)
Kneecap examination once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- palpation of the kneecap
Recommended examinations (2)
-
Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- SOD1: c.118G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Rod-cone dysplasia 1a (rcd1a-PRA)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- PDE6B:c.2448_2449insTGAAGTCC
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Nederlands Kooikerhondje, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 10/07/2025.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Hereditary necrotising myelopathy (HNM) and Patellar luxation (PT). The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Degenerative myelopathy (DM) and Rod-cone dysplasia 1a (rcd1a-PRA). A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Kooikerhondje needs varied daily walks and play, and enjoys dog sports. Its coat needs a weekly brush.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
The Kooikerhondje is sensitive and often reserved with strangers. Early, calm socialisation and kind, consistent training are important.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
