6 Dog Breeds That Have Won Over the Netherlands
From busy Amsterdam canalsides to quiet neighbourhoods in Utrecht and Rotterdam, some dog breeds are simply everywhere. They ride trams, hang out under café tables, wait at daycare doors and fill Dutch parks at the end of the workday.
In this article, we’ll look at six breeds that have truly “conquered” the Netherlands — either by topping popularity lists or by becoming icons of modern Dutch dog life. And, of course, we’ll also look at how they fit into city apartments and small homes.
How we chose these 6 breeds
We combined:
- Recent surveys and rankings of popular dog breeds in the Netherlands (TGM StatBox)
- The rise of certain breeds in international statistics (especially in urban environments) (American Kennel Club)
- Dutch heritage breeds that have a special place in local hearts (houdenvanhonden.nl)
The result is a mix of classic family favorites, modern city dogs and one very Dutch original.
1. Labrador Retriever – the classic family favorite
Labrador Retrievers regularly appear at the top of “most popular breeds in the Netherlands” lists, thanks to their friendly, easy-going nature and strong family-dog reputation.
Why the Netherlands loves them
- Gentle, people-focused and usually great with kids
- Smart and relatively easy to train
- Active enough to join bike-side walks, forest trips and beach days
City & apartment life
A Lab can live in an apartment, if you commit to serious daily exercise and mental stimulation. Think:
- Long walks in nearby parks
- Dummy training, scent games or basic agility
- Sturdy harnesses and strong leads (they’re powerful dogs)
Without enough movement, a Labrador will get bored — and a bored Lab can turn your minimalist interior into a DIY chewing project.
2. Labradoodle – the modern all-rounder
The Labradoodle (a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle) has exploded in popularity in the Netherlands, and often appears high on local “favorite breeds” lists.
Why the Netherlands loves them
- Social, affectionate and usually good with families
- Athletic, but often easier to manage than some working breeds
- Many people appreciate their low-shedding coats (though they are not guaranteed hypoallergenic)
City & apartment life
Labradoodles come in different sizes. Medium types are common in Dutch cities:
- Need several proper walks per day
- Benefit from brain work: training games, puzzle feeders, hide-and-seek
- Regular grooming is non-negotiable to keep their coat healthy
They fit well into active, design-conscious homes that also enjoy structure and routine.
3. French Bulldog – compact city charmer
Globally, the French Bulldog has become one of the most popular urban dog breeds, even topping overall popularity rankings in countries like the US. In the Netherlands, they show up frequently on “most popular breeds” lists and are a very common sight in cities.
Why the Netherlands loves them
- Small, sturdy and full of personality
- Typically sociable with people and other dogs
- Happy with shorter, frequent walks and a lot of sofa time
City & apartment life
Frenchies can be excellent apartment dogs, but they need careful, informed care:
- Watch for breathing issues, heat sensitivity and weight gain
- Avoid intense exercise in hot, humid weather
- Use comfortable harnesses that don’t press on the neck or throat
Because they’re so people-focused, they thrive in homes where someone is around often — perfect for hybrid workers.
4. Chihuahua – tiny dog, big Dutch presence
It might surprise some people, but Chihuahuas often rank very highly in Dutch popularity statistics, sometimes coming just behind big names like Golden Retrievers.
Why the Netherlands loves them
- Ultra-compact – ideal for small city apartments
- Loyal and attached to “their” humans
- Easier (and cheaper) to transport, board and outfit with gear
City & apartment life
A Chihuahua’s size is an advantage, but it also brings responsibilities:
- They still need real walks, not just being carried
- They get cold easily in Dutch winters – soft jumpers and warm indoor spots help
- Early training and socialisation are crucial so they don’t become fearful or “bag-only” dogs
With thoughtful handling, a Chihuahua can be the perfect little shadow in a small home.
5. Pomeranian – fluffy companion for modern homes
Pomeranians appear on Dutch popularity lists as well, loved for their fox-like faces and cheerful, alert personalities.
Why the Netherlands loves them
- Small, playful and full of life
- Their size fits perfectly into compact city apartments
- Many people enjoy grooming and styling that iconic “pom” coat
City & apartment life
Poms are lively – think “tiny watchdog with opinions”:
- Daily walks and play sessions help avoid nuisance barking
- Their coats need regular brushing to prevent matting
- A good harness is often safer than a collar on such a delicate neck
In a well-structured home, a Pomeranian brings a lot of energy without taking up much physical space.
6. Kooikerhondje – a Dutch original that’s winning hearts again
The Kooikerhondje is one of the Netherlands’ own heritage breeds, originally used to lure ducks into traps (kooien) for hunters. Today, this elegant, orange-and-white dog is rediscovering popularity with Dutch families who want something local, athletic and affectionate.
Why the Netherlands loves them
- Strong Dutch identity and history
- Loyal, clever and eager to work with their humans
- Medium size: big enough for active outdoor life, compact enough for many homes
City & apartment life
A Kooikerhondje can do well in a city apartment, but only with:
- Plenty of daily exercise (walks, bike-side trots, dog sports)
- Mental challenges – think nosework, obedience or trick training
- A calm, consistent approach; they’re sensitive and don’t enjoy harsh handling
For active Dutch households, especially those who love weekends in nature, this breed can be an ideal bridge between city life and outdoor adventures.
Honorable mentions: other breeds that stole Dutch hearts
We could easily have made this a top 20. Other names that often pop up in Dutch parks and popularity lists include:
- Golden Retrievers – another classic family favourite
- Pomeranian mixes and “Boomers” – small companion dogs with mixed-breed charm
- Dutch Smoushond and Keeshond – other traditional Dutch breeds with loyal fan bases
Choosing the right dog for Dutch city life
No matter which breed you fall for, a few things are always true in the Netherlands:
- Space can be small – but the lifestyle is active. Many dogs do well in apartments when their humans commit to regular walks, play and mental stimulation.
- Weather matters. From rainy bike rides to cold, damp winters, good gear (coats, drying mats, non-slip indoor beds) keeps your dog comfortable.
- Enrichment protects your home. Smart toys, chew options and cosy resting spots reduce boredom and help save your furniture.
At StadPaws, we focus on making city life with pets softer, calmer and more beautiful – whether you share your home with a tiny Chihuahua, a fluffy Pom or a very Dutch Kooikerhondje.
Thinking about adding a dog to your life in the Netherlands? Start with your lifestyle first, then choose the breed that fits — your future best friend (and your apartment) will thank you.