Keeshond

Other names

• Dutch Keeshond
• Wolfspitz

History of the breed

The Keeshond, originally from the Netherlands, was bred as a working dog for herding livestock and as a guard dog. This breed was also often seen as a ship's dog, playing an important role in protecting ships and goods during voyages. The Keeshond was a popular dog in the 18th and 19th centuries in the Netherlands, where it was often associated with the affluent middle class. The breed took its name from the famous politician Kees de Gyselaer, who used it as a symbol of the Dutch Republic. Today, the Keeshond is prized as a companion dog for its friendly nature and beautiful appearance.

Character and temperament

The Keeshond is a cheerful, confident, and friendly dog. They are very sociable and get along well with children and other pets. This breed is energetic, but also somewhat independent and can sometimes have a mind of its own. They have a protective instinct, making them good watchdogs, but they are generally not aggressive. The Keeshond requires a lot of attention from its owner and can become bored if not given enough stimulation. They are intelligent, loyal, and enjoy company.

Physical characteristics

• Height at the withers : Males: 48–54 cm, Females: 43–49 cm
• Weight : Between 20 and 30 kg
• Coat : The Keeshond's coat is dense and double-layered, consisting of a long, soft undercoat and a straight, coarse outer coat. The coat is one of the breed's most distinctive features, especially the ruff around the neck and the bushy tail.
• Colour : The coat is usually grey or wolf-grey, with a black mask on the muzzle and black markings around the eyes and on the ears.
• Distinctive features : The Keeshond has a proud and expressive appearance, with its pricked ears, dark eyes, and a striking tail carried high. The ruff around the neck gives it a majestic and luxurious appearance.

Neck circumference and chest circumference

• Neck circumference : Between 35 and 45 cm
• Chest circumference : Between 60 and 75 cm

Care

The Keeshond's coat requires regular maintenance to prevent tangles and keep it in good condition. Weekly brushing is essential, and during the shedding season (twice a year), you should brush more often to remove loose hair. It's important to keep the coat clean and dry, especially the undercoat. In addition to grooming, the Keeshond's nails should be trimmed regularly, and its ears and teeth should be well-maintained.

Movement and activity

The Keeshond needs moderate exercise. They enjoy daily walks, playtime, and short jogs, but they are not extremely active dogs. They are naturally curious and enjoy exploring. It's important to keep the Keeshond mentally stimulated through interaction, games, and obedience training. Although they are relatively calm, care must be taken to prevent them from becoming bored, which can lead to destructive behavior.

Health

The Keeshond is generally a healthy breed, but can be prone to certain conditions, such as hip dysplasia, heart problems, eye problems, and allergies. Regular veterinary checkups are important to ensure the dog's health. The Keeshond's life expectancy is typically between 12 and 15 years.

Power supply

The Keeshond needs a diet rich in protein and nutrients to support its energy and health. They need an average of 350 to 500 grams of good dog food per day, depending on their activity level and size. It's important to adapt their diet to their age, health, and lifestyle.

Training and socialization

The Keeshond is a smart and eager-to-learn dog, but they can sometimes be a bit headstrong. Early socialization and obedience training are important for this breed. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent training. Although naturally friendly, they can be watchful and need to be well-socialized with other dogs and people. They can be a bit aloof with strangers, but are generally not aggressive.

Suitability for owners

The Keeshond is an excellent choice for families or individuals seeking a friendly, loyal, and energetic companion dog. This breed is less suitable for owners who lack sufficient time for training and exercise, as they can quickly become bored and develop behavioral problems. Keeshonds get along well with other pets and children, but require proper socialization and attention.

Call for interaction

Do you own a Keeshond or know someone who does? Share your photos with us at customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase! We're also looking for dog owners to contribute to a video for FidelloTV, where we'll learn more about this unique breed. Contact us for a video consultation at customerservice@fidello.nl and receive €20 in store credit.