Keeshond Dog Breed Information

  • AKA:Wolf Spitz
  • Size:Medium
  • Ease of Training:Medium/High
  • Grooming:High
  • Shedding:High (seasonal)
  • Exercise Needed:Daily walks
  • Energy Level:Medium
  • Protection:May make an effective watchdog
  • Good with Children:Yes
  • Health Clearances:OFA, CERF
  • Weight:Male: 45; Female: 35 lbs
  • Height:Male: 17-19; Female 16-18 inches
  • Coat Colour:Mixture of gray, black, and cream. Undercoat is pale, and tips of the outer coat are black. Black muzzle, ears, tail tip

Keeshond Coat

The Keeshond has a plush, abundant double coat. The outer coat is long, straight, and harsh. The under coat is soft and downy in texture. The coat is extremely thick around the neck, shoulders, and chest. The hair on the head is short, smooth, and soft. The Keeshond has markings around the eyes that resemble spectacles. The coat is longer on the legs and is lighter in color. The most common coat color is a mixture of black, cream, and gray. They may also be black, brown, orange, buff, and white. The coat is shed twice a year.

Keeshond Character

The Keeshond has an outgoing personality. They are commonly referred to as the "Smiling Dutchman", bestowed upon this breed for their ability to curl their lip to resemble a grin. The Keeshond often does this as a greeting for people they are extremely fond of.

Keeshond Temperament

The Keeshond is highly intelligent and affectionate. They are friendly to other people and dogs. They adore children and are excellent family pets. They thrive on human companionship. They are empathic and intuitive, and are frequently used as therapy dogs. They have a loud distinctive bark and make good watchdogs. The Keeshond is loyal and full of personality. They are neither timid nor aggressive.

Keeshond Care

The Keeshond requires thorough daily brushing. It is important to never clip this breed for the summer as the outer coat provides insulation from the heat and sun. Keeshonds are very clean breeds that will generally groom themselves. Bathing should only be done when necessary. Dry shampoo as needed. They may be prone to hip dysplasia, slipped stifles, Von Willebrand's disease, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy.

Keeshond Activity

The Keeshond is happiest when they are participating in family activities. They do not require a great deal of exercise and make excellent apartment dwellers. They enjoy a daily walk, playing ball, or Frisbee. Keeshonds benefit from a small, securely fenced yard. If they are left alone outside for too long they may become bored and dig.

Keeshond Health and Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Keeshond is around 12-15 years, and there are a number of health problems that have been linked to this breed. This includes diabetes, thyroid problems, autoimmune disorders, cataracts, luxating patella, HD, MVD, vWD, heart disease, and seizures. The parents of the Keeshond puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.