The Spotlight shines on one of – if not the – rarest breed competing in League over the Fall Season. Allie is a Stabyhoun – a Dutch breed that is an all-around farm dog, doing any task needed, including hunting birds and small game. They also can run agility – as proven by Allie who has earned a number of titles and runs on the League Senior team Put Your Bark Into It. The Stabyhoun is in the AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS), moving towards full recognition. Allie’s owner, Lorraine, owns two “Stabys” and tell us more about how she discovered this cool breed.

Call name: Allie

Age: 9.5 years

Breed: Stabyhoun

Registered name: Allie OAP AJP OFP CGC ATT

Owner name: Lorraine Nealy

City/State: Clermont, FL

League team and division: Put Your Bark Into It / Regulation Senior

How did you discover the Stabyhoun and what attracted you to the breed?

My husband and I were doing research for our next dog and came across rare breeds, and the Stabyhoun was third on the list. We went to the American Stabyhoun Association (ASA) page and began reading about these smart, loving, and loyal dogs. After that, we applied for a puppy with the ASA and before long we welcomed Allie into the family.

Tell us about the history of the breed.

The Stabyhoun originated in the Dutch province of Friesland. They were an all-around farm dog whose name means “stand by me.” Stabys helped farmers by hunting moles, skunks, and rats, and they were also used for bird and rabbit hunting. Known for their inquisitive and independent nature, they possessed traits that made them especially well-suited for the wide range of tasks required on the farm.

Was it difficult to find a puppy?

It can be challenging to get a Stabyhoun puppy since most breeders are simply owners who choose to breed their own dogs. Prospective owners apply through the ASA website and are then placed on a waiting list. Because only a limited number of litters are born each year, the wait can easily be a year or more. We were fortunate, after just two months, we received a call asking if we could pick up Allie at the end of the week, as someone had to back out due to health issues. Of course, we said yes, and our Staby adventure began.

What led you to train Allie in agility? What has she been like to train and compete with?

My husband initially started Allie in agility until he was too busy with work. At that point I took over because I thought it would be a great way to bond and spend time together. I never planned to trial, but my trainer convinced me to try DACOF, a team event in Florida, and that’s when I caught the agility bug. Allie is smart and eager to learn, especially when treats are involved. We’ve faced some challenges, like the start line stay, since she’s so excited to play that sitting still can be tricky. But now she’s excellent at the start line. She’s consistent and competing with her is a lot of fun. Although we didn’t start AKC trials until January 2025, we qualified for the AKC Agility Invitational by May 2025.

Does Allie compete in other sports?

At the moment, Allie focuses solely on agility since we compete in several venues, but I’ve also started scent work training, and she’s picking it up quickly. This past summer at the Stabyhoun Specialty, she earned Best Veteran Female, and we couldn’t be prouder of our little superstar.

What is her favorite reward?

Allie’s favorite rewards are treats, treats and more treats. She is not into tugging or toys. After we complete a run, she makes a beeline to the ice chest and her meatballs.

What do you like best about League and how has it helped you in agility?

What I enjoy best about League is the relaxed, fun atmosphere where we can run trial-worthy courses and cheer each other on. I try to treat League like a real trial, so I’ll often tell Allie, “Okay girl, one and done.” It doesn’t always work out that way, but that’s the beauty of League: you get to try again. It’s been a great confidence booster for both of us.

Future goals?

My future goals with Allie are to keep enjoying our training and agility competitions together. We met our goal of earning an Invitational invite this year, and we hope to be invited again next year. She loves agility, and, as long as she’s able to keep running, you’ll find us at the trials.

Advice for others looking for a rare breed?

Do your research on the breed to ensure they have the qualities that fit your family. Stabyhouns, for example, need mental and physical challenges and can become bored without enough stimulation, so be prepared to spend quality time with them. They are independent, some might call them stubborn, but with gentle guidance, they learn quickly. Join the breed Facebook page and chat with Staby owners. We never miss an opportunity to talk about our dogs or post way too many photos. Finally, be patient: because they are rare, it may take a while to find one, but they are absolutely worth the wait.

Anything else you want to add?

My husband and I adore our two Stabyhouns, and together we’ve become a true Staby family. When it’s time for a new puppy, it will definitely be another Stabyhoun. They fill our lives with joy and fun every single day!