Keeshond
The Keeshond, a medium-sized member of the Spitz family, is known for its lively, outgoing temperament and striking beauty. With their thick, double coats, curly tails and fox-like appearance, Keeshonds are affectionately referred to as "Smiling Dutchmen", thanks to their happy faces and endearing personalities.
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Temperament |
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Size |
Medium
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Adult size |
Female
Between 16 and 17 in
Male
Between 17 and 19 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 33 and 44 lb
Male
Between 33 and 44 lb
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Coat colour
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Black
Blue
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Type of coat
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Long
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Eye colour
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Brown
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Purchase price |
The Keeshond costs between £700 and £3000 |
The Wolfspitz is the larger German version of the Dutch Keeshond. It is considered the largest variety within the breed. The Keeshond was established in the Netherlands, where it evolved and established itself as a unique breed, used as a watchdog on barges that travel the Rhine.
More details about the Keeshond
Keeshond: Origins and history
The Keeshond is a variety of the German Spitz , an ancient breed of primitive dog . The origins of the breed remain unclear, but it is believed to be descended from the Stone Age bog dogs found in the Arctic regions. Possible ancestors include the Samoyed, the Chow Chow, moose dogs, and the Pomeranian. The Keeshond first originated in the Netherlands in the 17th century.
In the 18th century, the breed became the symbol of the rebellion led by Cornelis de Gyselaer, nicknamed "Kees", against the House of Orange in the Netherlands. The name "Keeshond" (Kees' dog) is said to have come from this period. Between the 17th and 18th centuries, the Keeshond was used as a guard dog on barges transporting goods along the Rhine.
The breed then experienced a period of decline before being revived in the 20th century, thanks to the efforts of Baroness van Hardenbroek. The first breed club was created in 1930 in the Netherlands and the standard, which has since been made official, has not changed. The Keeshond was recognised in France in 1935. Since 1999 the breed has shared the breed club standard with the German Spitz.
Keeshond: Characteristics
Keeshonds are affectionate, loyal companions. Despite their wolf-like appearance, they are cuddly dogs who are devoted to their owners.
Keeshonds are very energetic dogs, who love to run and play. They're lively and sporty, meaning they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Keeshonds are fairly high energy, but they can learn to settle indoors, provided they're given the right training and physical stimulation.
Keeshonds are very energetic, alert dogs. They learn quickly and are typically eager to please and easy to train.
With sled and guard dog origins, Keeshonds have a strong prey drive. They enjoy tracking and searching, and they may try to chase small animals.
Without plenty of socialisation, Keeshonds can be wary and even fearful of strangers.
Keeshonds can be indepedent and stubborn. They need training and boundaries to help channel their naturally independent streak.
Keeshond: Behaviour
Keeshonds are so devoted to their families, they do not tolerate solitude well. They need plenty of company to thrive in a home.
Keeshonds are very obedient, provided they receive the right training from a young age. They pick tricks up quickly, responding well to positive reinforcement methods.
Keeshonds may use their voice to alert their owners to the presence of strangers, but they are not particularly vocal dogs.
Keeshonds can have a tendency to run away, particularly if bored or under-stimulated at home.
Keeshonds can be destructive when bored or lonely. They need plenty of enrichment and exercise to help them feel their best.
Keeshonds typically have a good appetite, but they aren't particularly greedy dogs.
Naturally wary and protective, Keeshonds make excellent guard dogs.
Training a Keeshond
With consistency and patience, the Keeshond is very easy to train.
Keeshond: Lifestyle
Keeshonds can adapt to apartment living, but they do need access to the outdoors and plenty of space to exercise.
Keeshonds are very active dogs, who need long outings and plenty of time in nature. This breed enjoys hiking and other dog sports, such as canicross.
Medium in size, the Keeshond travels well with the right training and socialisation from a young age. Travelling with a Keeshond may require specific planning and preparation, to ensure your dog is comfortable throughout the journey.
Breed compatibility Keeshond
Keeshonds can live with cats, provided they're well-socialised from a young age. Careful introductions and regular supervision is recommended given the high prey drive of the breed.
Keeshonds get along well with other dogs, especially if they've been raised together.
Energetic and playful, the Keeshond makes an excellent companion to children. These dogs love to cuddle and play with people they trust, but as with any dog, adult supervision is recommended.
For active seniors able to meet their exercise needs, the Keeshond can be suitable for the elderly. For others, their exercise needs may be too high.
Keeshonds are not particularly well suited to first time dog owners, due to their strong personalities and independent nature.
Keeshond: Purchase price
Keeshonds can cost anywhere from £700, depending on the breeder, the bloodline and the location of the litter. In addition to the initial cost, you'll need to factor in monthly expenses for anti-parasite treatment, a high quality diet, accessories and pet insurance.
Keeshond: Shedding
Heavy !
The Keeshond, with its thick double coat, sheds moderately to heavily.
Keeshond: Grooming
Daily brushing is essential during the moulting season to prevent matting and to maintain coat health. Outside of these times, weekly brushing is usually sufficient for regular maintenance.
Keeshond: Health
Keeshonds are typically robust and hardy dogs with good general health. The breed isn't prone to major health problems.
Thanks to their thick, double coat, Keeshonds tolerate moderate heat quite well. They can find it difficult to tolerate high temperatures.
With their thick, woolly fur, the Keeshond is perfectly adapted to cold weather. The breed thrives in cold environments.
Keeshonds can be prone to weight gain, if they aren't exercised enough and fed a balanced diet.
- Alopecia (hair loss)
- Skin problems
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy, hyperparathyroidism (rare)
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