Overview
The Markiesje, sometimes called the Dutch Tulip Hound, was reconstructed in the Netherlands from the small black companion dogs seen in old Dutch paintings. It is a light, fine-boned dog with a silky black coat, sometimes with white markings, feathered ears and tail, and a build somewhere between a small spaniel and a Papillon. It is recognised by the Dutch kennel club and barely known in the UK.
Temperament is the breed's selling point: friendly, soft, biddable and sociable with people and dogs. It is not a dog that needs managing so much as one that needs including.
Exercise and walking needs
Fifty minutes a day across two walks keeps most Markiesjes fit and happy. They are nimble and enjoy a brisk pace, a few retrieves and some sniffing, and they will cheerfully go further on a good day without needing to.
The coat is fine and the dog is light. Cold, wet weather calls for a coat and a shorter route.
On the walk
- Recall: Generally excellent. The dog wants to be with you and comes back for the pleasure of it. Reward it anyway.
- Other dogs: Gentle and sociable, good in a mixed group. Keep an eye out for heavy-footed large dogs that could flatten it in play.
- Lead: Easy and light. A harness is kinder to the throat and keeps the long coat around the neck tidy.
- Coat: The feathering on ears, legs and tail collects seeds and mud. A quick comb at the end of the walk keeps the owner happy.
Tips for professional walkers
- Bring a small toy; the dog enjoys fetch and it makes a routine route more fun.
- Protect the dog from boisterous play with much larger dogs.
- Carry a towel for feathering after wet walks.
- Use a soft voice; this is a sensitive breed that does not need firmness.
What to ask the owner
- Does the dog have any health conditions, and how far is it used to walking?
- Does it wear a coat in winter, and how does it cope with rain?
- Which dogs does it already know and enjoy walking with?