Keeshond Dog Breed

AKC Dog Breeds: Keeshond

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Non Sporting Group
Height: 15-19 inches Weight: 55-66 pounds Color: mix of grey, black, or cream

The Keeshond is a natural, handsome dog of well-balanced, short-coupled body, attracting attention not only by his coloration, alert carriage, and intelligent expression, but also by his stand-off coat, his richly plumed tail well curled over his back, his fox like expression, and his small pointed ears. The Keeshond origin can be found in the Arctic or Netherlands. During the eighteenth century the Keeshond was known as "a dog of the people." The Keeshond was bred from the Samoyed, Chow Chow, Elkhound, and Pomeranian. At the beginning of the French Revolution it became a symbol for the common and middle-class Dutchmen. They were led by the Patriot Kees de Gyselaer. Afterwards the breed endured and suffered a long period of neglect. It was introduced to the United Kingdom by a woman named Mrs. Wingfield-Digby. However, the Keeshond did not become popular again until it was introduced into the United States in the 1920's. They are part of the Spitz family and therefore were originally bred to guard canal boats. It was because of this that it was named the Dutch Barge Dog. However, rather unkindly, in Victorian England the Keeshond was nicknamed the Overweight Pomeranian. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1930.

General Appearance
Keeshond are compact little animals with a strong resemblance to its ancestor the Samoyed, with oblique chestnut eyes, erect triangular ears, and its medium-length tail rolled on its back. It has a cream or pale gray undercoat and a luxurious outer coat that comes in shades of gray with black tips and stands away from the body. Its coat always appears to have just been washed and combed. The markings are quite definite and there are distinctive pale "spectacles" around the eyes. A choke chain should not be used, as it will spoil the spectacular ruff.

Temperament
Affectionate, loving, and good natured, the Keeshond is a dog that loves to be around his human family. These dogs thrive on attention and love, and enjoy getting involved in the family fun and activities. Some can be quite demanding in terms of the affection and attention that they require, and without it can become bored and start barking a lot. Spirited and happy, the Keeshond is a sociable creature, and is very friendly towards just about everyone. He will bark to raise an alarm, which can make him a fairly effective watchdog, but he is too friendly to qualify as a guard dog. Known as the 'smiling Dutchman' because of the way that he bares his teeth in a cheerful, grinning fashion, this dog makes for a great family pet and companion. The Keeshond is fine for inexperienced dog owners as well as for the more experienced, but he can have a willful and independent streak - although training using positive methods should not prove too much of a problem. The Keeshond is an intelligent breed, and is quick to learn obedience commands. These dogs get on very well with children, and most will be fine around strangers. Early socialization is important in order to reduce the risk of increased timidity in some Keeshonds, and a peaceful environment is essential as these dogs are very sensitive and have very powerful hearing. When it comes to other pets, the Keeshond tends to get along well with them, which means that he is ideal for families that already have pets in the household. The Keeshond's eagerness to please his owner along with his intelligence and learning rate means that he will usually do well in terms of obedience training.

Grooming
The Keeshond requires thorough daily brushing. It is important to never clip this breed for the summer as the outer coat provides insulation from the heat and sun. Keeshonds are very clean breeds that will generally groom themselves. Bathing should only be done when necessary. Dry shampoo as needed.

Health Problems and Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of the Keeshond is around 12-15 years, and there are a number of health problems that have been linked to this breed. They may be prone to hip dysplasia, slipped stifles, Von Willebrand's disease, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy.

Activity Level
The Keeshond is happiest when they are participating in family activities. They do not require a great deal of exercise and make excellent apartment dwellers. They enjoy a daily walk, playing ball, or Frisbee. Keeshonds benefit from a small, securely fenced yard. If they are left alone outside for too long they may become bored and dig.

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