Keeshond Breed Profile
KC Group Utility
Size Medium
Good with children? Yes
Good guard dogs? Would bark
Moulting level Heavy
Grooming Heavy
Exercise requirement Moderate
Jogging partner Short runs
Keeshond Breed Profile
They were in fact found along the Rhine on the barges and as watchdogs in farmsteads. In Germany they are known as the Wolf Spitz. The Keeshond has always been a companion dog and is ideally suited to this roll; having never been bred to hunt or retrieve he won't stray far from his family. He is adaptable and will happily settle to new surroundings making him an easy travelling companion.
Keeshond Character
The Keeshond is essentially a people dog. From its humble beginnings along the Rhine as a farm and barge watchdog it has used its acute hearing to warn owners that someone is about. Their bark will alert the owner long before anyone appears! The Keeshond likes to bark and needs firm but kind discipline early in life, if this natural behaviour is not to become a nuisance. Despite the warning bark, visitors are greeted as long lost friends! They have a particular affinity with children and will make a loyal and patient companion.
Keeshond Size
The Keeshond is a medium sized breed with dog's 46cm and bitches 43cm in accordance with the Breed Standard.
Keeshond Health
The Keeshond is a healthy breed. Like many, there are some known health problems. Epilepsy is known in the breed and there is DNA research in progress. Alopecia X causing coat loss can occur in a number of Spitz breeds. There is a DNA test for Primary Hyper parathyroid disease (PHPT) enabling the disease to be eradicated in the breed. More information can be found on the two club websites. There are no other known health issues
Keeshond Special Care
Little special care is required to look after the Keeshond apart from regular grooming
Remember! All breed profiles are general and every dog is an individual.