Dutching Calculator
Calculate optimal stake distribution across multiple selections to guarantee equal profit regardless of which bet wins.
Dutching Analysis
Stake Distribution
| Selection | Odds | Implied Prob | Stake | Potential Return |
|---|
Stake Allocation
What is Dutching?
Dutching is a betting strategy that allows you to back multiple selections in the same event while guaranteeing the same profit regardless of which selection wins. Named after the infamous gambler Dutch Schultz, this technique is particularly popular in horse racing and sports betting.
The key principle is simple: distribute your total stake across selections in proportion to their odds, so the payout is identical no matter which one wins.
When to Use Dutching
Competitive Fields
When multiple selections have realistic winning chances, dutching lets you back several contenders while maintaining consistent returns.
Value Opportunities
When combined implied probability is under 100%, dutching guarantees profit. Look for markets where bookmakers have overpriced multiple selections.
Risk Management
Reduce variance by spreading risk across selections. Even if one selection loses, another can win and deliver the same profit.
Horse Racing
Particularly effective in large field races where you've identified 2-4 strong contenders but can't decide between them.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter total stake - The total amount you want to distribute across all selections
- Add your selections - Enter the odds for each selection you want to back (minimum 2)
- Calculate - The calculator determines the optimal stake for each selection
- Review distribution - Check the stake allocation and guaranteed profit
- Place your bets - Use the calculated stakes at your sportsbook
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dutching in sports betting?
Dutching is a betting strategy where you back multiple selections in the same event with calculated stakes to guarantee the same profit regardless of which selection wins. It's useful when you believe multiple outcomes are more likely than the odds suggest, allowing you to spread risk while maintaining consistent returns.
How does the dutching formula work?
The dutching formula distributes your total stake proportionally based on the odds of each selection. For each selection: Individual Stake = Total Stake × (1/Decimal Odds) / Sum of (1/Decimal Odds for all selections). This ensures the payout is identical regardless of which selection wins.
When is dutching profitable?
Dutching is profitable when the combined implied probability of your selections is less than 100%. This means the bookmaker has overpriced the selections you're backing. For example, if three selections have combined implied probability of 95%, you have a 5% edge and will profit regardless of which one wins.
What is the difference between dutching and arbitrage?
Dutching backs multiple selections in the SAME event at one bookmaker, aiming for equal profit if any selection wins. Arbitrage backs ALL possible outcomes across DIFFERENT bookmakers to guarantee profit. Dutching requires fewer selections but carries more risk since unselected outcomes can still lose.
How many selections should I include in a dutch bet?
The optimal number depends on the event and odds available. Generally, 2-4 selections work best. Too many selections dilute your profit per winner, while too few may not provide adequate coverage. Focus on selections where you believe the true probability exceeds the implied probability from the odds.
Can I use dutching for horse racing?
Yes, dutching is particularly popular in horse racing where fields often have multiple contenders. You can back your top 2-4 horses with calculated stakes to profit if any of them wins. This is especially useful in competitive races where several horses have realistic chances of winning.