Keeshond (Dutch Wolf Spitz)

The Keeshond, also known as the Dutch Wolf Spitz, is a vibrant and endearing breed distinguished by its eye-catching good looks and amiable disposition. This dog is difficult to miss because of its fluffy coat and unique "spectacles" around the eyes. Originally from the Netherlands, the Keeshond was a watchdog and a companion to Dutch bargemen, demonstrating its alertness.

Breed	Keeshond (Dutch Wolf Spitz)
Size	Medium
Weight	35-45 lbs
Height	17-18 inches
Coat	Thick double coat
Color	Gray and black
Temperament	Friendly, alert, playful
Exercise Needs	Moderate
Life Span	12-15 years
Good With Kids	Yes
Grooming	Regular brushing needed

General characteristics of the Keeshond breed

Keeshonds are happy, gregarious, and active dogs. They have an outgoing temperament, require communication all the time, enjoy engaging in active games, and enjoy traveling. They are curious and happy to go on nature walks with their owner. These make the perfect travel and sports companions. They can be taught a variety of skills, including agility.

This cute dog is always happy, kind of like a teddy bear. A endearing muzzle expression combined with a distinctive smile has the power to uplift and prevent depression in anyone. This Spitz is even referred to as the "smiling Dutchman" at times. Keeshonds are useful for children with special needs, the disabled, and canistherapy. Because of their strong sense of smell and sophisticated intuition, they are considered the best search dogs in the USA.

Parameters	Characteristics
Breed name	Keeshond, German Wolfspitz, Dutch Wolfspitz
Breed group	Spitz and primitive breeds
Country	Germany, Holland
Use	Companion, guard
Appearance features	Lion"s mane, small triangular ears, pointed muzzle, thick double coat of wolf color
Life expectancy	13-15 years
height	43-55 cm
weight	25-30 kg
aggression	no
activity	high
intelligence	standard
training	easy
care	difficult grooming, sheds a lot

Pros

Keeshonds are calm, amiable dogs. They adore kids and have a strong bond with their owner. They do not fight with dogs and get along well with other pets in the same home. This is the perfect family dog and a great companion for those who lead active lifestyles. You can keep the Keeshond in an apartment in the city because of its small size and adaptability to any situation. It is not likely to escape because, like a cat, it is attached to the house.

Members of the breed also enjoy a number of additional benefits.

• attractive appearance;
• balanced temperament;
• good trainability, docility;
• complete absence of aggression;
• loyalty, loyalty;
• unpretentiousness;
• cleanliness, no doggy smell;
• good health.

Cons

Keeshonds are energetic, traveling dogs. They require regular exercise and lengthy walks. Consequently, homebody breeds and those who are frequently away from home are inappropriate. Because wolf spitzel are such gregarious dogs, they require close supervision. They dislike being by themselves. They also have a few additional drawbacks:

• The wool requires serious care, it sinks strongly;
• These dogs are often barking loudly;
• prone to obesity;
• the breed is rare, so puppies are expensive.

Differences from other German spitz

Keeshonds are members of the wolfshpitsa breed. It’s a German spitz, sort of. They are not the same size or color as the rest of the wool. This type of growth is the largest decorative spitter; it can grow up to 55 cm. Since their color is zone-gray or wolf, the name contains the word "Wolf." Depending on size, groups of the remaining German spitz are formed. The characteristics of the various German spitz varieties are visible in the picture:

The independence of the Keeshond breed is not acknowledged by the International Cynological Association. The wolfspitz standards describe its appearance. In actuality, though, keeshonds come in a wider range of colors, have a more lush coat, and are somewhat more compact. Since breeders bred a decorative dog to revive the breed, they appear more attractive. Additionally, working qualities were given more consideration when breeding German wolfspitz.

The Keeshond, also known as the Dutch Wolf Spitz, is a delightful and energetic breed that is well-liked by both families and individuals due to its striking appearance and amiable disposition. Having a long history dating back to the Netherlands, these canines make excellent watchdogs in addition to being devoted pets. Examining the distinct characteristics, maintenance requirements, and energetic nature of Keeshonds can assist prospective owners in understanding what makes them such enjoyable companions.

History of origin

The spitz-like are represented by keeshonds. Arctic wolves are their ancestors. In particular, Spitz were common in Germany and the Scandinavian nations. They assisted in grazing cattle and guarded crops from rodents while residing on small farms. Spitz evolved organically, largely unaffected by selection.

The Netherlands is where the Keeshond breed originated. Its ancestors were the ancient peat dogs that were widespread in this nation. They assisted fishermen as well as peasants. They eradicated rats and lived in ports and on barges. They were initially referred to as "Dutch barge dogs" because of this. They were well-liked and widely available in the Netherlands, particularly among the general public. Due to their assistance to the rebels during the late 18th-century Dutch Revolution, these dogs were nearly wiped out.

German Spitz breeders categorized the breed, established a standard, and identified multiple varieties towards the end of the 1800s. Dutch barge dogs were among them; they were categorized as wolfspitz. Although the breed’s numbers have increased since the turn of the 20th century, it is still among the rarest. The Keeshond is still not recognized as a separate breed by the FCI. Because of its distinctive wolf-like coat color, it is referred to as a wolfspitz at exhibitions and is classed as a German Spitz. However, it is recognized as a distinct breed by the dog associations in the USA and Great Britain.

Keeshond is a later-appearing name that is popular in the USA, Canada, Holland, and Scandinavia. There are multiple explanations for why these dogs were given that name:

• "Keis hund" (dog from the box) – representatives of the breed used to sleep in boxes with ashes;
• "Kaas hund" – a dog that loves cheese;
• "Kiss hund" (kissing dog), because they are very affectionate.

However, the most widely recognized explanation in Holland is that the name derives from Kees, the rebel leaders’ beloved dog, who went by that moniker. This breed gained popularity during the Dutch Revolution, and all Spitz dogs in the nation started going by that name. Also translated as "dog" is "hund."

By the end of the 20th century, Russians began to import Keeshond dogs. They were employed as circus dogs at first. However, professional breeding started in the 1990s when breeding producers started to arrive from abroad. Despite this, the breed is still rare in our nation.

Description of the appearance of the Wolfspitz Keeshond

The largest German Spitz representative is Keeshond. It is a dog breed of medium size. He stands around 50 centimeters tall at the withers and has a balanced build. Adult Keeshonds typically weigh between 25 and 30 kg, regardless of gender.

Head

The size of the head is medium in relation to the body. Reminiscent of a fox, the back of the head is rounded and the muzzle is wedge-shaped. It’s short and to the point. The nose bridge is even, and the stop is smooth. The black, round, small nose lobe. The cheekbones are flat, and the jaws are not very large. The lips are tight-fitting, thin, and do not droop or form folds. This dog is able to smile.

The small oval eyes are positioned somewhat obliquely. The iris is dark brown, and the eyelids are black. The expression is bright, alert, and energetic. The ears are small and erect. Their triangular form and pointed tips are characteristic. positioned high on the crown, close to one another.

Body

Construct a robust, square-shaped structure. A medium-length neck with a distinct nape. A thick lion’s mane covers the neck completely, but there is no dewlap. The croup is enormous, the loin is convex, and the back is short and broad. Though it is not visible beneath the collar, the chest is deep. The abdomen is somewhat tucked in. Similar to all Spitz breeds, this one has a high tail that is curled into a ring, occasionally into two. The dog typically pushes it to the back.

Limbs

The limbs are wide, muscular, and straight. The knee joints are big, the elbows are pressed against the chest, and the shoulder blades are long. The paws are tiny and resemble cats. The thick pads, sharp black claws, and arched toes are all present. These dogs have a light step and a springy gait.

Coat and color

The coat is long, thick, and doubled over. It stands out because the topcoat is fairly rigid. The undercoat is thick and velvety. The fur on the neck, chest, and tail is thicker. The legs have feathers on them. On the muzzle, the hair is smooth and short.

The Keeshond Wolfspitz can only be zonal gray, per the FCI standard. Another name for this hue is wolfish. It is hair that is silver-gray with black tips. The ears and muzzle have more paint on them. A black border surrounds the eyes, and the mask’s eyebrows are situated above them. On the collar and limbs, the wool is softer. At Keshonds, however, a broader color scheme is acknowledged at home. Wool comes in beige and creamy colors in addition to gray and black.

The description of these dogs’ appearance is enhanced by photos:

Features of character

The absence of aggression is the primary characteristic of the Dutch Wolfshpitsa. These canines are intent on people. They are extroverts by nature. They must communicate with the owner and other family members all the time. When people ignore or caress this dog, it makes them uncomfortable. However, she will grow to be the owner’s beloved pet and devoted companion. Willing to accommodate all games and classes, but not overly restrictive. Keeshond senses the owner’s emotions.

This dog is happy and quite emotional. As a result, it is peaceful and gets along with all animals. tries to make its surroundings happy, enjoys being mischievous, and enjoys making its owner laugh. able to amuse a child, play nicely with them, be kind and patient, and support all games.

It is possible to observe the following characteristics of the Keeshond:

• good nature;
• cheerfulness;
• sociability;
• inquisitiveness;
• playfulness;
• loyalty;
• docility;
• peacefulness;
• stubbornness.

Education and training

The Dutch are more ornamental than the German Wolfspitz, which was bred as a working dog. They are not watchmen or guards; they are companions. The skills must be instilled in them from a young age. Even though they are perceptive and intelligent, it’s crucial to choose the appropriate training strategy.

Dogs that receive love and attention from their owners quickly pick up social norms. It can be trained to use a tray or diaper, and it knows where to go to the toilet right away. She can perform a variety of stunts, agility, freestyle, and basic commands from the General training course with ease.

When training, you must consider the following traits of this breed:

• Keeshonds should not be pressured or forced to do something if they do not want to;
• they do not tolerate rude treatment, physical punishment, and are very offended;
• this is not a guard dog, it can show by barking that a stranger is approaching, but it cannot show aggression;
• training should be built in the form of a game, they should be varied and interesting for the pet;
• training should be short but regular, preferably several times a day;
• the best reward for this dog is affection, praise, admiration, they do not like to work for treats;
• you do not need to scold the Spitz or shout at it, adult dogs understand intonation well.

Wolf Spitz were yard dogs in the past and were kept outdoors. They are able to endure inclement weather because of their coat. However, contemporary Keeshonds are indoor dogs who get along well in a private home or a small city apartment. Just be aware that they are not very heat tolerant. Keeping them outside is not advised because they require continuous communication.

These active, finicky dogs require two to three daily walks. Walking should involve active games. Particularly until the age of three, after which Spitz starts to calm down. The dog will sleep in its own bed at home if it is allowed to run around outside.

Maintaining a Keeshond requires following the standard hygiene protocols, but this is not difficult:

• check and clean the ears every week;
• examine the eyes daily and wipe if necessary;
• trim the claws every month or more often if they do not wear down on their own;
• it is recommended to brush the teeth with a special paste a couple of times a week.

Coat care

Twice a year, the Keeshond’s coat sheds heavily, with the remaining portion falling out over time. It needs extra attention to stay in an appealing condition. Use a hard brush or comb two or three times a week to comb. Connect another pudder and repeat this process every day during the molting period. Оогразуются колтуны па ушами, под мышками и в других местах. In this instance, a tuto-cutter and a specialized tool for unraveling wool will still be required.

Purchasing a pet on a regular basis is not advised. Thick wool dries quickly and is difficult to get wet. It is sufficient to give your pet a wash every two to three months; in the summer, you can let them swim in natural pools, and in the winter, you can use snow to clean their wool. Use specific shampoos for long-haired dogs, air conditioners, and balms when taking a bath. It is advised to wash the paws after a walk. The wool between the fingers can be cut to make hygiene maintenance simpler. Additionally, give a pet a waterproof jumpsuit during unclean weather.

Nutrition

Veterinarians advise feeding this breed’s dogs premium dry food that is classified as super premium. You must examine the composition closely. Wheat, soy, and artificial additives should be avoided because these dogs are prone to allergies. Certain substances have the ability to alter the coat’s color.

The Keeshond can also eat natural food. To ensure that the diet is balanced, you simply need to put it together correctly. Offal, or lean meat, should make up the majority. It can be swapped out for sea fish a couple of times per week. Raw or boiled vegetables are combined with meat. Fermented dairy products, greens, and vitamin and mineral complexes are beneficial additions to food.

Since dogs of this breed enjoy eating and are prone to gaining excess weight, it is important that the dog not overeat. As such, you must regulate the quantity of food. A mature dog receives two meals per day. Depending on body weight and season, it needs between 700 and 900 g of food when feeding naturally. It is simpler to dose dry food according to the directions on the container. There should always be unrestricted access to clean water.

Health

Wolfspitz have a long lifespan. They have a 14–16 year lifespan on average. It is dependent upon appropriate nutrition and keeping conditions. Regular canine vaccinations, veterinary preventive exams, and antiparasitic medication are essential.

These dogs are healthy and seldom become ill when given the right care. But members of this breed are susceptible to a number of illnesses, including:

• epilepsy;
• obesity;
• allergies;
• joint dysplasia;
• cataracts, retinal atrophy;
• hypothyroidism;
• diabetes;
• blood clotting disorder.

How to buy a puppy

It’s best to get in touch with a reputable nursery if you want to purchase a purebred wolf spitz puppy. There, genetic pathology research is done and dogs are housed in ideal conditions. Puppies are typically sold at two months old, but it is preferable to wait until four months old if the dog is required for exhibitions. The traits of the breed are more pronounced at this age. Puppies of purebred Keeshonds start at twenty thousand rubles. For those in the show class above, the cost is between $40,000 and $50,000. If the dog is offered at a lower price, it might not have all the paperwork or have inherited illnesses.

Prior to selecting a puppy, you should consider the mother’s behavior and the conditions of animal ownership. Examining every document, including the veterinary certificates, is crucial. Puppies ought to be playful, energetic, and well-fed. It is necessary to examine the coat’s thickness, as well as the color, bite, and limb position. A healthy puppy has a soft tummy, clean eyes, a wet nose, and no bad odor.

The pictures depict the puppies’ appearance:

The following captivating video will enhance the breed’s attributes:

Wolfspitz (Keeshond) in video. Benefits and drawbacks of the Wolfspitz type

Keeshond in a video. characteristics of the breed, maintenance

Video: The program "Home Zoo" about Wolfspitz (Keeshonds)

The Keeshond is a breed that really stands out thanks to its eye-catching appearance and lively disposition. This Dutch Wolf Spitz, well-known for its fluffy coat and amiable disposition, is more than just a lovely face—it’sa devoted friend who enjoys socializing with people. The Keeshond is an ideal companion for anyone seeking a playful companion or a loyal friend.

Due to their high level of socialization, this breed typically gets along well with kids and other pets. They make excellent family dogs since they are always eager to join in on the fun. Their happy demeanor can make anyone smile, and they enjoy participating in family activities.

A Keeshond’s thick double coat requires frequent grooming in order to maintain its condition. The happiness they offer you makes the small cost worthwhile. You can maintain their gorgeous coat and spend valuable time together with just a little brushing and care.

Because Keeshonds are intelligent and eager to please, training them is usually a rewarding experience. Training sessions are an enjoyable way to strengthen your bond with your pet because they respond well to praise. They also make excellent watchdogs because of their alertness, always ready to warn you of anything strange.

To put it briefly, the Keeshond is a family member that is full of love, vigor, and charm—it’smorethan just a dog. If you’re thinking about bringing one into your house, be ready for lots of fun and company. This breed will win your heart and add a little happiness to your day.

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