Keeshond
Quick Summary
Intelligent, family-friendly dogs ideal for active owners. Key considerations include grooming needs and exercise requirements. Best suited for engaged owners seeking loyal companions.
Contents
Weight Range
35-45 lbs
♂ Male: 35-45 lbs
♀ Female: 35-45 lbs
Height Range
43-46 inches
♂ Male: 18-18"
♀ Female: 18-18"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Non-Sporting Group
Originally bred for Dutch barge dogs from the 17th century, serving as watchdogs and companions on riverboats along Amsterdam's waterways
Popularity
#95
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 18"-18" |
| Female Height | 18"-18" |
| Male Weight | 35-45 lbs |
| Female Weight | 35-45 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1,000-$2,000), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover food, grooming, and preventive care. Regular veterinary check-ups and potential health issues add to costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Keeshonds exhibit friendly, outgoing personalities with moderate energy levels. They excel in social situations, showing affection to family and alertness as watchdogs. Their intelligence makes them responsive to training.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular family interaction. Generally good with other pets and people. Can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long. Benefits from consistent companionship.
Breed Overview
Keeshonds are distinctive spitz-type dogs featuring a luxurious double coat in silver and black, with distinctive 'spectacles' around their expressive eyes. Their fox-like face, coupled with a proud, plumed tail and thick ruff around the neck, creates an instantly recognizable silhouette. Medium-sized and well-proportioned, they carry themselves with confidence and grace.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent family companion
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Intelligent and trainable
- ✓ Alert watchdog
- ✓ Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
- ✗ Heavy shedding
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ Can be vocal
- ✗ Needs regular exercise
- ✗ May be stubborn
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Lively, Outgoing |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Keeshonds require 45-60 minutes of daily exercise, combining walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation. Moderate intensity activities like fetch and agility training are ideal, with exercise spread across multiple sessions throughout the day.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Keeshonds need 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention to portion control needed to prevent obesity. Rich in protein and moderate in fat content.
Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Consider age, activity level, and size when portioning. Premium dog food recommended with proper protein-fat balance.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Ideal in moderate climates with access to outdoor space. Requires protection from extreme heat due to thick coat.
Adaptable to various living spaces, including apartments, provided they receive adequate exercise. Need access to temperature-controlled environments due to thick coat. Yard access beneficial but not essential.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in the Netherlands as barge dogs, Keeshonds gained prominence during the 18th century Dutch Patriot political movement. Their role as symbols of the common people earned them the nickname 'Dutch Barge Dog.'
Historical Purpose
Dutch barge dogs from the 17th century, serving as watchdogs and companions on riverboats along Amsterdam's waterways. Valued for their alertness and loyalty.
Fun Fact
Their distinctive facial markings, resembling glasses, are called 'spectacles' and are a hallmark of the breed.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Moderate exercise requirements must be met. Watch for overheating in warm weather due to thick double coat.