Keeshond Dog Breed Information - All About Dogs

Keeshond

Keeshond

KEESHOND DOG BREED

Description:

The Keeshond (often called the Wolfspitz) is a typical representative of the Spitz family. It is believed that this breed of dog was bred in the Arctic, for the purpose of becoming exclusively a family pet. This compact, very muscular and rugged dog is winning prizes at exhibitions and nowadays, the Keeshond is a very good watchdog. The Keeshond was officially recognized by the American Kannel Club in 1930.

Height: 17-18 inches  Weight: 35-45 pounds  Lifespan: 12-14 years

Characteristics:

The Keeshond is an amazing companion. Quite often, a dog of this breed is called “The Smiling Dutchman” because of his unique ability to wrap his upper lip so that it really looks like he’s smiling. Indeed, Keeshonds welcome those people whom they particularly love. Comparable Breed: Samoyed, Schipperke.

Character:

The Keeshond is a very intelligent and affectionate dog. This dog is friendly toward other people and dogs, he loves children and is an excellent pet. Keeshonds need to be in constant communication with the man, and if neglected, they are prone to empathy. This breed has developed a strong intuition, which makes it indispensable for Canistherapy. Thanks to his loud and distinctive bark, the Keeshond is an excellent guard dog, he is devoted to his master and has a strong personality. This dog is not aggressive nor too timid.

Coat / Care:

The Keeshond is dressed in a truly luxurious furry coat, consisting of two layers. The outer layer is long, straight and rather rough, and it provides excellent insulation from warm weather. The undercoat is fluffy and soft in texture. Around the dog’s neck, shoulders and chest lie especially thick and luxurious long collar. The head is adorned with short, smooth and soft hair. The most common color is a mixture of black, cream and gray. But it can also be black, brown, orange, light brown and white color. Intense shedding occurs twice a year, which requires a thorough daily cleaning. Make sure to bathe your dog only in case of urgent need. The same applies to the use of dry shampoo.

Keeshond

Health Problems:

The Keeshond is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to Hip Dysplasia, dislocations of kneecaps, breathing problems, Von Willebrand disease, Hypothyroidism and Epilepsy. The Keeshond has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.

Weight / Height

The male Keeshond dog breed’s height is around 18 inches and weighs around 40 and 45 pounds. Female Keeshond dogs can reach a size from 17 inches and weighs between 35 and 40 pounds.

Training:

Education can become quite a challenge, as Keeshonds can sometimes be quite stubborn and even pert. At the same time, like all other Spitz, Keeshonds show great talent in regard to obedience or agility. The greatest success can be achieved by conducting classes based on equity and diversity. With frequent repetition of the same exercises, the Keeshond easily gets bored and simply becomes indifferent to learning. More About: Keeshond Training

Activity:

Dogs of this breed simply enjoy taking part in all kind of games and family activities. In general, the Keeshond is perfect for keeping in the apartment, since they are not too demanding. Keeshonds enjoy daily walks, playing ball or chasing a flying saucer. If you leave him unattended outside the house for too long, the Keeshond can become lonely and even destructive.

Keeshond

Photo Credit: Terri Brown/Flickr; Christopher Ludtke/Flickr; Marcia O’Connor/Flickr

Quick Information

Other Names:Deutscher Wolfsspitz, Smiling Dutchman, Wolfsspitz, Kees, Dutch Barge Dog, Chien Loup, German Spitz
Origin:Germany, Europe and Netherlands, Europe
Average size: Medium Size Dog Breed
Color:Silver & Black, Black & Silver, Gray, & Black, Gray Cream & Black, Gray Silver & Black
Energy Level:Somewhat Active
Shedding:Seasonal
Grooming:Weekly
Trainability:This dog is easy to train
Barking Level:Low – When Necessary
Intelligence:Very Intelligent and clever dog
Personality:Friendly, Outgoing, Lively
Hypoallergenic:No
AKC Dog Ranking:92th Popular dog
Good family dog:Yes, Excellent with socialization
Good with other dogs:Yes, Very good with socialization
Good with children:Yes – Excellent with socialization
Good with strangers:Yes –  Very good with socialization
Good apartment dog:Yes – Good apartment dog

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