Outgoing, amiable and full of life, the Keeshond makes a perfect pet for any family. Because these dogs were only ever bred to be companions, they tend to be sweet by nature and carry a special place in their hearts for kids. They also make great therapy dogs because of their excellent obedience skills and gentle disposition.
The Keeshond’s long fur sheds seasonally. They’re very eager to please and can be easy to train, plus they aren’t known to be big barkers. With the proper care, a Keeshond loves to lounge on the couch with her owner just as much as she loves running and playing outdoors.
Origin: Holland Other Names: Kees
Non-sporting dogs are a diverse group. The breeds in the Non-Sporting Group are a varied collection in terms of size, coat, personality and overall appearance.
With pointed ears, a flowing coat and curved, tail held high over their backs, Keeshonden are recognizable by their body structure and a color pattern around their eyes that makes it looks like they are wearing glasses, says Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer with the American Kennel Club.
In general, the Keeshond is a sturdy, medium-sized dog that weighs between 35 and 45 pounds and measures about 18 inches tall for a male and 17 inches for a female.
Size
Tiny
Jumbo
Weight
Light
Heavy
Shedding
Minimal
Abundant
Coat Length
Short
Long
Grooming Frequency
Occasional
Frequent
Living Space
City apartment
Ranch
Exercise
Couch potato
Bring it on!
Climate
Warm
Cold
Personality
Antisocial
Outgoing
Behavior with Kids
Always monitor
Babysitter
Coat & Grooming: The Keeshond has a double coat comprised of a soft undercoat separated by coarser guard hairs. Weekly grooming and brushing sessions will keep your Keeshond’s fur looking soft and supple, and you should plan to bathe him every 6 or 8 weeks as well.
Shedding: The Keeshond has a coat that sheds seasonally and brushing it once a week can usually help keep stray hairs at bay. Trimming may also be necessary in small bits around the feet, pads, and hocks, but if you aren’t experienced with this type of grooming, it’s best to get professional help.
Temperament & Behavior: The Keeshond has a personality that makes it an excellent breed to train. They are smart and eager to please and, if you start at an early age, most learn to abide by their owners wishes quite easily.
A gentle pup with lots of love to give, the Keeshond makes a great family pet, even for families with other animals. “Keeshonden have an easygoing personality,” says Klein. “They can get excited when meeting other animals, but they typically end up getting along well together.” This intelligent breed is also highly trainable and super smart, and active families with kids will enjoy taking him out for walks or watching him run around in the backyard.
“Owners of Keeshond say they can tell when their dogs are feeling down because they get a ‘worried’ look on their face,” says Klein. “Their tail is also a good barometer of how they are feeling—if it’s tightly curled, they’re happy. When their tail unwinds, it is usually an indication that they are nervous or anxious.”
Personality: Sweet, gentle and loving, the Keeshond really is the perfect package.
Behavior with Kids: If you’re looking for a breed that loves nothing more than hanging with the kids, this is the one.
Life Span: On average, Keeshonden live to be about 12 to 15 years old.
Inherited Health Issues: Certain health conditions can occur in Keeshonden either due to inheritance or simply at an increased frequency within the breed. Genetic testing is available for primary hyperparathyroidism, and several screening tests can be performed for a number of other conditions. Responsible breeders perform these tests prior to breeding in an attempt to decrease the incidence of these conditions within the breed. These conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following: Patent ductus arteriosus, Tetralogy of Fallot, Ventricular septal defect, Adult-onset growth hormone-responsive dermatosis, Diabetes mellitus, Primary hyperparathyroidism, Idiopathic epilepsy and Cataracts.
Preventive Care: Keeshonden should be monitored at home for any changes in their overall health, including exercise intolerance, coughing, increased water consumption, hair loss or seizures, as these signs can indicate different health conditions. Should any problems arise, a veterinarian should examine a Keeshond for any changes. Although certain health problems can occur in the Keeshond, none can be definitively prevented. Responsible breeders can perform a genetic test for primary hyperparathyroidism and a variety of screening tests for other health conditions prior to breeding in an attempt to decrease the incidence of these conditions within the breed. Routine visits to the veterinarian, as well as proper nutrition and exercise are the best ways to keep a Keeshond in the peak of health.
Nutrition: Keeshonden should be fed portion-controlled meals of a balanced diet in order to maintain a healthy body condition. If overfed or under-exercised, a Keeshond can become overweight. Avoid offering table scraps or too many treats, as these can quickly pack on the pounds.
Daily Consumption: Average daily consumption for an adult Keeshond is 1 to 1.5 cups
Energy Level: Frisky, energetic breed that is always ready for action
Exercise: Although they are an extremely adaptable breed, the Keeshond does best with regular exercise and engagement with people.
Climate: The Keeshond’s thick coat means that they can easily overheat in hot climates. They tend to do better in a cooler environment.
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Keeshond in the plural is Keeshonden.
Because of its political beginnings, you can find the Keeshond featured in many old Dutch political cartoons.
Keeshond are known for their “smile,” and they aren’t good at hiding their emotions.
