Breed History:

The Keeshond (pronounced "KAYZ-hawnd") is a spitz-type breed originating from the Netherlands. Historically known as a “barge dog,” the Keeshond was a companion and watchdog on Dutch canal boats during the 17th and 18th centuries. It became a symbol of Dutch patriotism during the political unrest of the late 1700s, particularly during the rebellion led by Cornelis de Gyselaer, whose dog “Kees” lent the breed its name.

The Keeshond’s loyal and alert nature made it a beloved companion among commoners and a symbol of the people’s party. While its popularity declined after the rebellion, enthusiasts revived the breed in the early 20th century, and it gained international recognition for its charm, intelligence, and distinctive looks. Today, it is cherished both as a companion and a show dog.

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Keeshond is a strikingly beautiful breed with a plush double coat, fox-like face, and richly plumed tail that curls tightly over its back. Its abundant coat is most impressive around the neck and chest, forming a lion-like mane, especially prominent in males.

It has a thick ruff, small, pointed ears, and distinctive "spectacles" – dark markings around the eyes that give it an alert, expressive look. The coat is usually a mixture of gray, black, and cream, with the undercoat being pale and the outer coat shaded with black-tipped hairs. Despite its voluminous fur, the Keeshond has a compact, well-balanced body that allows for agile movement and endurance.

Breed Type – Family/Companion:

The Keeshond is an affectionate, people-oriented breed known for its cheerful disposition and social nature. It thrives on companionship and tends to bond deeply with all family members, including children and other pets. This breed is not aggressive and is usually friendly toward strangers, although it makes a reliable watchdog due to its alert bark and keen observation.

Its amiable temperament and desire to be involved in daily family life make it an excellent house pet. The Keeshond is not suited for isolation or long hours alone, as it craves human interaction and quickly becomes emotionally attached to its people.

Training:

The Keeshond is intelligent and eager to please, which makes training relatively straightforward for most owners. It responds best to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and play. Early socialisation and obedience training are recommended to help it develop confidence and good manners in various situations.

This breed enjoys learning and thrives in activities like agility, obedience, and trick training. However, it can be sensitive to harsh corrections or raised voices, so a patient, gentle approach yields the best results. Consistency and regular mental stimulation help prevent boredom and mischief.

Health & Care:

The Keeshond is generally a healthy and hardy breed, with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. However, some individuals may be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Reputable breeders test for these issues to maintain the breed’s overall health.

Proper nutrition, regular vet check-ups, and weight management are important to prevent obesity-related health problems. With its thick coat, the Keeshond can tolerate cold weather well but is sensitive to overheating and should not be overexerted in hot or humid conditions.

Living Conditions:

The Keeshond adapts well to different living environments, including apartments, provided it receives sufficient exercise and companionship. Its moderate size and indoor-oriented personality make it a good fit for urban living, but it also enjoys having access to a yard where it can explore and play.

This breed prefers being around people and does not tolerate being left alone for extended periods. It thrives in a household where someone is usually home and where it can participate in family activities. While it is not a high-energy breed, the Keeshond does require daily walks and playtime to stay mentally and physically healthy.

Exercise:

The Keeshond has moderate exercise needs and is happiest when it has the opportunity to engage in daily walks, play sessions, and mentally stimulating games. It enjoys interactive activities and can excel in dog sports like agility and rally, though it does not require intense physical exertion to be content.

Mental engagement is as important as physical activity for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, obedience work, and games like hide-and-seek can help channel its alertness and natural curiosity. Despite its thick coat, care should be taken in warmer months to prevent overheating during exercise.

Grooming:

The Keeshond has a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to stay healthy and mat-free. Brushing two to three times a week is necessary to remove dead hair and prevent tangles, with more frequent grooming during seasonal shedding (usually twice a year). A slicker brush and a metal comb are helpful tools for maintaining the coat.

Bathing is needed only occasionally, as the Keeshond’s coat naturally repels dirt. Regular maintenance should also include ear cleaning, nail trimming, and brushing teeth several times a week. Special attention should be paid to the undercoat during heavy shedding periods to prevent matting and discomfort.

Advantages:

• Friendly, affectionate, and great with families and children

• Intelligent and responsive to training with positive reinforcement

• Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments

• Alert and vocal, making a reliable watchdog without aggression

• Low odour and relatively clean despite its thick coat

• Generally healthy and long-lived with proper care

Disadvantages:

• A thick coat requires consistent grooming, especially during shedding seasons

• Can be prone to barking if not properly trained and socialised

• May suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods

• Sensitive to heat due to dense fur; needs protection in hot weather

• Needs regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom

• May develop stubborn habits if not trained early and consistently