The Stabyhoun a breed integral to the Dutch heritage, shares its lineage with other regional breeds like the Drentsche Patrijshond and Heidewachtel. The breed's name, Stabyhoun, believed to hail from the Dutch phrase "sta mij bij" (stand by me), paired with "houn," the Frisian word for dog, reflects its multi-faceted nature and loyalty. The modern Stabyhoun bears striking resemblance to dogs depicted in 17th-century Dutch artwork, notably in pieces by the renowned painter Jan Steen.
Originating from the Frisian forests in the Netherlands, the Stabyhoun was historically bred alongside the Wetterhoun. In the early 1900s, however interbreeding between Stabyhouns and Wetterhouns nearly erased their distinctive characteristics. This triggered preservation efforts in 1938 by the Kynologenclub Friesland, leading to the breeds' official recognition in 1942, thanks to the dedication of individuals like J. Bos T. van Dijk, B. de Graaf, and W. Hoeksema. The breed standard was established officially on February 10, 1944.
In 1947 the Dutch Association for Staby and Wetterhounen (NVSW) was founded to safeguard the interests of these unique Frisian breeds. The Stabyhoun's existence in the United States dates back to the first registered litter in 1994. By 2017, the breed's numbers exceeded 7,000 worldwide. The Stabyhoun has gained popularity well beyond its Dutch roots, finding homes across Belgium, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, the United States and the United Kingdom, among other regions.
FRIENDLINESS
LIVELINESS
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
ADAPTATION CAPACITY