This Highly Rare Dog Breed With Only 300 Members Left In The US Is So Striking

Humanity's relationship with dogs goes back over 30,000 years, and they are considered the first domesticated animal. Descending from wolves, dogs have been bred worldwide to maximize desirable traits for work or companionship. Millennia of breeding specific traits have given us the popular breeds of today, which now reside in 65.1 million American homes as of 2024. With such a long history and strong bond, many remain unaware of the number of vulnerable dog breeds facing extinction. The stabyhoun is one such breed with only around 300 left in the U.S. and 6,000 globally.

The stabyhoun, pronounced as "stah-bay-hoon", and often just called a staby, is a multipurpose pet whose origins trace back to the 17th-century Netherlands. Bred to perform tasks ranging from hunting, farm work, and companionship, the canine was unique to Friesland, a northern Dutch province. It is speculated to be a mix of spaniels brought by the Spanish conquistadors, and two breeds from adjoining regions, including the Dutch partridge dog and large münsterländer. Unlike many breeds that have become vulnerable due to cultural shifts, the staby remains a revered, faithful companion and hard worker in its native home.

A staby paints a striking portrait with its spotted or roan-patterned feathered double coat that predominantly comes in black and white but can also be brown/orange and white. The proud pooch also embodies strength and elegance, thanks to its history as a pointer hunting dog. With such a strong visual presence and history, the staby only remains uncommon due to its regional upbringing; It is one of several breeds from the Netherlands considered rare. Yet, thanks to its desirable characteristics and growing awareness, the stabyhoun may see a surge in popularity.

The stabyhoun's chance at longevity benefits from having various traits that can make it a highly sought-after companion. Notably, the staby is known to be an overwhelmingly affectionate dog breed with high energy levels. Add in its friendliness towards other pets and kids when properly socialized, and the Netherlands-bred canine is an ideal pet for an active family. 

Turning a stabyhoun into a well-behaved companion can be a simple process, with it thriving under positive reinforcement training and a desire to please. The breed is also considered generally healthy, though it faces common hereditary issues such as hip dysplasia. As a medium-sized dog breed, standing proud between 19 and 21 inches, there are ample reasons why a staby could be a perfect fit for the right home.

Still, the breed faces challenges, particularly in the U.S., with its low numbers and only a foundation stock service recognition from the American Kennel Club. The limited availability of stabys can also make them expensive, with the base price ranging between $2,000 and $3,200, plus potential travel expenses to acquire one of the few available puppies. Currently, the Ameri-Can Stabyhoun Association is the primary source for adoption options of the remarkable breed. The stabyhoun is a striking canine, with a lot of heart. Even if you can't bring one into your home, raising awareness about any rare or vulnerable dog breeds can help ensure their longevity.