Dutch Smoushond

The Dutch Smoushond, or Hollandse Smoushond, is a small rough-coated dog from the Netherlands, historically kept around stables, coach houses, and shops as a vermin catcher and cheerful watchdog. Its name is tied to the shaggy moustache and beard on the face. The breed has a harsh yellow to straw-colored coat, dark expressive eyes, drop ears, and a square, sturdy outline. It was nearly lost in the twentieth century and later rebuilt from dogs of the old type.

In homes, the Smoushond is usually a lively companion rather than a hard-edged terrier. It benefits from daily walks, nose games, and early manners training so alert barking and chasing do not become habits. The coat is normally combed and periodically hand-stripped or tidied rather than clipped flat, which helps keep the wiry texture. Because the breed is rare and has a small foundation, buyers and breeders should ask about health screening, temperament, and preservation efforts.