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KEESHOND — BREED DESCRIPTION & INFORMATION
Breed Description / Health Issues / Breed Standards / Training / Additional Information
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Breed Description
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| Breed Registries: |
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Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees. |
| Origin: |
Germany |
| Height: |
17 to 18 inches (43-46 cm) |
| Weight: |
30 to 50 lbs. |
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The Keeshond (pronounced "Kaze-hawnd") is a member of the Spitz family originating in Germany where he is known as the "Wolfspitz." In Holland, he is known as the "Dutch Barge Dog," in France as the "Chien Loup" and in Italy as "Lupini." This is a very old breed, who throughout history, has always been a companion dog. This has resulted in a breed with a wonderful temperament. One who is gentle, devoted, loving and intelligent. Known as the "smiling Dutchman" because of the toothy grin that he sometimes displays, the Keeshond is loyal, protective and excellent with children. He is good-natured, affectionate, full of fun and always eager to please. The Keeshond makes an ideal companion for people of all ages.
He has a foxy expression, prick ears, double coat and carries his tail over his back as do most of the Spitz breeds. His coat has an abundance of long, straight, harsh hair that stands out from the downy undercoat. The coat is very thick around the neck, shoulders and chest, giving the appearance of a lion-like mane. The hair on his head is smooth, soft, short and velvety. He also has the distinct appearance of wearing glasses due to the markings around his eyes that enhance his expression. Another distinct feature is the longer coated pants, which are lighter in colour. In North America, the most common colours are a mixture of black, cream and grey. In other parts of the world, the Keeshond is also seen in black, brown, orange, buff and white.
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Health Issues:
Like all breeds of dogs, the Keeshond is susceptible to some health problems, including but not limited to:
- Distichiasis — This is a hereditary disease where there are double rows of eye lashes, one normal and one that turns inward. This can cause eye lashes to rub against the eye thus causing tearing and staining under the eyes. Blindness may result if the extra eyelashes are not surgically removed.
- Epilepsy
- Hypothyroidism — This is a common health problem in several breeds and is the result of a under active thyroid gland.
- Luxating Patellas
- Hip Dysplasia
- Hyperparathyroidism (HPT) — Can cause loose teeth, brittle bones, and kidney damage.
- Allergies
- Cancer
- Heart Disorders
If you are considering the adoption of a Keeshond, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. For the Keeshond, health clearances should include OFA, PennHip or OVA certification showing that breeding stock has been x-rayed clear of hip dysplasia and evaluated for normal patellae. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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AKC KEESHOND VIDEO
23 Min. Video Edition Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com |
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Calvin
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Grooming Information:
The Keeshond requires regular grooming to maintain a healthy and mat free coat. Except during seasonal shedding, generally about one hour per week of brushing is needed. During shedding periods, however, grooming time increases to about three to four hours per week.
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Training Resources:
The Keeshond is very intelligent, eager to please and easy to train. Training should always be done in a fun and positive manner.
- Training — For information on training your Keeshond, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Keeshonden Pedigree Search
- JabberwocKEES — A Keeshond magazine devoted to the health, welfare, and promotion of the ultimate companion dog.
- The Keeshond Coat by Bonnie M. Simrell — An overview of the development of correct coat colour, texture and markings in Keeshond puppies and adults; the importance of coat to Keeshond type; and effects of conditioning and environment.
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
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