KeeshondDogBreedInformation

The Keeshond is a member of the Spitz family. They are gorgeous, friendly dogs that always appear as if they are smiling! The Keeshond was originally bred to be a watchdog but now, they are simply wonderful family pets and companions. This beautiful breed stands 16 to 18 inches in height, weighs 35 to 45 pounds and lives approximately 12 to 14 years.

Keeshonds are a mixture of gray and black with a pale gray or cream undercoat. Their muzzles should be dark in color and there should be characteristic black "spectacles" around the eyes. They have dense coats that are easier to groom than they appear, however, they do require regular brushings. During molting season (which is two times per year), they will require extra grooming time as they shed heavily. If the Keeshond's coat is not properly groomed or is neglected, it can become, well, a mess! Improper grooming can result in tangles and mats that will need to be clipped out or groomed by a professional.

The Keeshond is a wonderful family pet, they are "people dogs!" They are good with children and love to be part of family activities. If you do not have time to devote to this beauty of a breed, it is best that you consider a different pet. Keeshond's need attention and will become bored and unhappy if they are left alone for long periods of time. This breed does well in a city or country setting as long as he gets attention and regular exercise.

Keeshond's are very intelligent but they do tend to have minds of their own! They love to please their owners, therefore, training is possible! Keeshonds respond well to positive, reward based training that is fun. This breed can easily become bored and disinterested with repetition so training sessions should be kept short and interesting! The Keeshond also has the tendency to bark a lot. They are excitable dogs that do best in calm, stable environments.

Keeshonds are generally healthy dogs. Reported health problems include, skin allergies, hip malformation and heart disorders. This breed is also prone to flea allergies so flea infestations must not be allowed.

If you are looking for a friendly, happy, bold, alert and affectionate dog, then the Keeshond may be the pup for you! For more information about the Keeshond, please visit: The Keeshond Club of America. If you are interested in adopting a Keeshond, please visit: PetFinder

When socialized properly as a puppy, the Keeshond gets along well with other animals. They need moderate exercise, two or three half hour walks per day should suffice. Keeshonds also enjoy off leash running so they are perfect dog park companions. This breed loves to eat, so food intake should be monitored as they can become obese if over eating is allowed.