Keeshond Dog Breed Information

Group

Non-sporting

Weight

20-25 kg

Height

44-48 cm

Lifespan

12-15 years

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About the Keeshond

Reviewed by:

Dr. Dilber Hussain

Veterinarian

Are you looking for a sweet, cuddly, and affectionate doggo to join your family? If so, a Keeshond could be just what you’re searching for! But, if you’re a first-time dog owner, you’ve probably got lots of questions about looking after your new furry family member.

How often should you groom your pup? Is the Keeshond known for barking a lot? What should you feed your dog? Dog ownership is a big responsibility, but this guide covers everything new owners need to know about giving their four-legged friend the best care.

What is the history & origin of the Keeshond?

The Keeshond breed is very old and was once a watchdog and companion on boats and barges traveling the Holland rivers and canals during the 1600s to 1700s. Today, this ultra-fluffy breed is used purely as a companion.

A modest “people’s dog”, this breed came to be a mark of the Dutch Patriots Party in its lengthy opposition to the House of Orange during the 18th century. However, there is some disagreement over where the name Keeshond came from.

Some believe it refers to the Patriotic mascot dog, called Kees. Others believe it comes from two Patriot leaders with the nickname “Kees”.

The first litter of American Keeshonds wasn’t bred until 1929 by a man named Carl Hinderer. Then in 1930, the first Keeshond became American Kennel Club registered in the Non-Sporting Group. In 1935, the Keeshond Club of America was founded.

What is a Keeshond breed?

The Keeshond dog breed is a cousin to the Chow, Samoyed, Finnish Spitz, Pomeranian, and Elkhound.

The friendly Keeshond is a medium-sized dog with a thick coat, famous for its distinctive “spectacles” on the typically fox-like face. These markings around its eyes make it look like the dog is sporting designer glasses! The markings also draw attention to the dog’s intelligent and alert expression.

Very “spitzy” in appearance, the Keeshond has pointed ears, a foxy face, a luxuriously ample coat, and a plumed tail that has an impressively high carriage. Originally a staple breed on the barges in its native country of Holland, the Keeshond was and still is a strong symbol of Dutch nationalism.

Who is a Keeshond best for?

This Dutch barge dog is ideal for people who are home a lot, so if you work from home, a Keeshond will make the perfect companion dog. If they’re left alone for long periods, Keeshonds tend to become destructive or bark a lot.

The Keeshond is also ideal for first-time owners as they’re fairly easy to train. Since they were originally bred to live on barges, they’re able to adapt to many different-sized spaces and environments, from compact apartments to large houses.

Keeshond Grooming & Shedding

Don’t let the dense double coat of the Keeshond worry you – this little fluff ball is pretty low maintenance! You should brush your pooch at least twice a week to prevent tangles or mats, and a bath should be given once every few months.

The Keeshond coat has two shedding periods each year to completely shed the undercoat, with each shedding period lasting about three weeks.

One thing to remember about Keeshonds is that they don’t do well in hot weather. You should also never clip or shave your Keeshond’s coat.

It may sound counterintuitive, but the dog’s thick fur provides insulation from heat, and clipping it could affect the dog’s ability to keep itself cool. Additionally, shaving the coat could make your dog more prone to sunburn and even skin cancer.

Do Keeshonds bark a lot?

Like many small to medium dogs, Keeshonds do tend to bark a lot. However, this vocalness is usually welcoming, not nastiness or overprotectiveness.

Most Keeshonds get along well with other dogs and pets, and they’re not natural guard dogs. As long as you start your dog’s training from an early age, barking shouldn’t become a problem later in life.

Keeshonds have also been nicknamed the “Smiling Dutchman”, earned from the way the dog curls its lips to show the teeth in a funny grimace. Don’t mistake this for a snarl though – it’s simply a submissive and happy smile!

What is the average weight & height of a Keeshond dog?

The Keeshond is a medium-sized non-working dog, with males measuring between 44-48cm and weighing from 20-25kgs. Females usually measure 40-44 cm and weigh between 15-20kgs.

Are Keeshonds easy to train?

The Keeshond is a very intelligent breed that is eager to please its humans. They respond very well to positive training methods, which you can start as early as 10 weeks. Keeshonds have also excelled as therapy dogs. They are quick learners and have great motivation to work hard.

Puppy training classes and early socialisation are strongly recommended. Without this foundational training, your pooch may learn some undesirable habits!

To exercise your dog’s mind and body, try things such as puzzles, dog sports, and indoor games to keep its intelligent mind busy!

How do Keeshonds behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Keeshonds were originally bred to be companions, not watchdogs. It’s not a hunting breed, nor does it have a natural desire to have a job. Ultimately, this breed is a loyal and devoted friend.

Thanks to its emotional sensitivity and incredible hearing, the Keeshond is much more reactive to loud noises than other dogs. For this reason, it won’t cope well in loud environments where there’s lots of shouting or a tense atmosphere.

Keeshonds are alert, lively, and brimming with personality. When your pooch is happy or excited, don’t be surprised if you find it spinning in circles, eager to share the joy with everyone! This outgoing personality is endearing and entertaining to all.

Does the Keeshond have any common health issues?

Keeshonds are usually quite healthy, but as is the case with most purebred dogs, they are sometimes susceptible to certain health problems. Although your dog may not get any of these conditions, pet owners need to be educated about them.

Common health conditions include:

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow and hip dysplasia are inherited conditions where the bones don’t fit properly into the joints. Some affected dogs will show lameness and pain, whereas others won’t show any obvious signs of pain or discomfort.
Von Willebrand’s Disease: This is a blood disorder that causes clotting. Dogs suffering from this disease will show symptoms such as bleeding gums, nosebleeds, excessive bleeding after surgery, and sometimes blood in their stools.
Diabetes Mellitus: This is where the dog’s body can’t regulate its blood sugar levels. Diabetic dogs will eat more to compensate; however, they will also lose weight because the food won’t be used efficiently.

What is the lifespan of a Keeshond?

Keeshonds generally have a life expectancy of between 12-15 years. However, you can help your adult dog live a long and healthy life by providing a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent weight gain.

Additionally, regular vet checks can ensure that health concerns are caught early and treated successfully.

How much does a Keeshond need to be fed?

Keeshonds tend to do well on a diet of high-quality food, whether it’s prepared at home or commercially produced. Like other Northern breeds, they usually enjoy a low-carb, fish-based diet. If in doubt, always discuss your dog’s dietary needs with your vet.

How much can you expect to pay for a Keeshond in Australia?

If you’re sure that this breed is for you, be prepared to pay around $1500 for a puppy! This could be more if it’s from a reputable breeder and the puppy has been well-bred.

Becoming a member of the Keeshond breed club in your area means you’ll be able to learn even more about this beautiful breed. Each national breed club is dedicated to promoting responsible canine ownership as well as hosting various shows and events.

Keeshond FAQs

Are Keeshonds rare?

Yes, this is a rare breed, and it’s not known by many. Or you may have seen one of these gorgeous dogs but never knew what they were called.

Although they are quite rare outside of their native country, Keeshonds have been the canine companions of a few celebrities, including the Irish Poet W.B, Walt Disney, and even Princess Diana!

How long can a Keeshond be left alone?

Keeshonds love attention from their humans and hate to be separated from them. This can quickly turn into separation anxiety,y and they don’t take kindly to being left on their own for long periods. If you know that you’re not going to be home very much, this breed isn’t a suitable choice for you.

Are Keeshonds hypoallergenic dogs?

Sadly, no, Keeshonds aren’t hypoallergenic. This breed carries some of the most common allergens, including dander, which is tiny flecks of skin.

Dander can stay in the air for long periods and can easily become attached to bedding, furniture, and other household items.

Can Keeshonds live in hot weather?

No, like other breeds in the Spitz family, Keeshonds aren’t suitable for hot climates due to their thick fluffy coats. For this reason, never take your pooch out during the hottest part of the day – stick too early morning or late evening walks.