Keeshond

The Keeshond is a cute and gregarious canine breed distinguished by its unique facial patterns and thick, fluffy coat. Known by many as the "Smiling Dutchman," this devoted dog has a happy disposition that makes it popular with both dog lovers and families.

The Keeshond, which originated in the Netherlands, is now more often used as a companion dog than as a watchdog on barges. It makes an excellent protector as well as a fun, amiable pet due to its medium size, alertness, and loyalty.

Although Keeshonds need frequent grooming due to their thick double coat, their friendly disposition and intelligence make them simple to train and live with. They are perfect for those looking for an active dog that gets along well with kids.

Distinguished by its thick, fluffy coat and unique fur "spectacles" surrounding its eyes, the Keeshond is a canine breed that is both friendly and intelligent. These loyal and playful medium-sized dogs are loving, gregarious, and wonderful family companions. They are a wonderful companion for people who live in cities and larger spaces alike because, in spite of their opulent coat, they require little maintenance and adapt well to a variety of living situations.

History of the breed"s origin

In terms of the Keeshond ancestors, they were absent yesterday. There is proof that a sizable population of dogs that resembled Spitz breeds descended from peat Spitz, which were powerful, fearless, and medium-sized animals.

Data from the 16th and 17th centuries pertain to the same kind of livestock. Subsequently, dogs with identical looks but distinct colors started to show up in various regions. For instance, two varieties of Spitz were prevalent in the regions that are now part of modern-day Germany and Poland, as well as Pomerania: large white and medium red.

Medium-sized grey and tan Spitz (also known as wolves) were employed as guard dogs, and Dutch and German breeders actively engaged in their breeding. This accounts for the breed’s two names, German wolfshpitz and keeshond, which is the second name the dog was given in Holland.

Earlier examples of the breed were not as beautiful looking as contemporary canines. Furthermore, they weren’t especially well-known for any other traits, like a firm grip, quick reflexes, or other practical abilities. Although Keeshonds have always been "average," they were great companions, herded cattle, handled the duties of guards, and alerted the community to the strangers’ intrusion.

Puppies of the Keeshond breed were widely available because cynologists were not particularly interested in this breed and did not breed dogs to produce highly bred animals. People with low incomes at the time did not permit themselves to own dogs purely for the purpose of communication, much less to satisfy all of their pets’ whims. Consequently, natural selection combined with Spartan living conditions made the breed’s representatives adaptable and low-maintenance.

Thus, the Spitz lived side by side with an individual without making a big impression until they caught the interest of breeders. Since the original instigator of the insurrection had a Spitz named Geuz as a pet, they were indirectly involved in the Dutch Revolution, which started in 1568 and lasted for several decades. Subsequently, this dog became associated with the revolutionary movement because rebel Cornelius frequently brought it along to various large gatherings.

The movement’s members were referred to as "Geuzes," which sounds like a mongrel or half-breed when translated. After the revolution was put down, the government issued an order to destroy anything connected to the rioters. The Spitz was also impacted by the purges.

Thankfully, though, this was not possible to do in full, and at the turn of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the first breed club was established in Germany. Its members did an amazing job of classifying Spitz from various regions.

A list of approved breed representatives was published in 1899, and breeding regulations were put into effect. The Keeshond has been officially recognized since this year, though it is still referred to as the Wolfspitz in Germany.

Description of the Keeshond breed

A single patron state is permitted for the breed under international regulations. However, the International Kennel Association unifies all Spitz breeds under a single standard, despite their variations in stature. Keeshond dogs are described in another way, but it is already in the American Kennel Club.

In addition to their remarkable and distinctive appearance, members of this breed possess highly developed cognitive abilities. Although the dogs resemble fuzzy toys, they are physically well-developed, nimble, and hardworking animals.

Image of the Keeshond dog breed

Keeshonds are characterized by their friendliness and sociability, which is applicable to both humans and other animals, as per the standard characteristics.

Regarding the measurements of breed representatives, the ideal height at the withers for males is 45.7 cm, while the ideal height for females is slightly shorter at 43.2 cm. However, these measurements are not thought to be very significant when assessing dogs. The presence of medium strength and physical harmony are given more consideration at exhibitions. The Keeshond dog breed shouldn’t be elegant and graceful, but it also shouldn’t have a large skeleton that draws the eye right away. Furthermore, only representatives who are older than two years old are evaluated for the ideal height.

The following appearance-related data are indicated by the standards:

• The head should be small, proportional to the body, wedge-shaped. Its sharpening or excessive lightness is not welcomed. The skull is wide with a noticeable transition to the muzzle.
• The end of the muzzle is U-shaped, with neat lips, slightly stretched, having a black color.
• The teeth are of medium size, create a dense row, without gaps, the bite is correct. Small spout lobe, rectangular, black.
• The dog has large, oval, bulging eyes (though with a certain mysterious slant), which have a lively shine and radiate sparks of mischief. The iris has brown hues. The eyes are set medium. The eyelid tissue is black and dense.
• The ears are small, neat triangular in shape, but look miniature against the background of the rich hair. They are in an upright position, have elastic cartilage, are set wide apart, have a high set and a straight direction.
• The dog"s body is more of a square format. The neck is strong, there is a clearly defined bend. The withers are also well defined, but due to the voluminous collar it is not too noticeable. The back is of medium length, has developed muscles, wide, with a moderately sloping croup.
• The belly is tucked up, but does not have a pronounced "undermining".
• The front and hind limbs are proportional, have fairly strong developed joints, widely spaced. The legs are well collected, have a rounded shape.
• The tail is set high, curled into a ring, which is located on the back and pressed to it. A mandatory condition is that the end of the tail must be black.
• A magnificent, luxurious coat is not for nothing called the hallmark of the Keeshond. It is well developed, very thick and dense, with a soft, rich undercoat. The guard hair has a vertical position, it is coarser. Pedigree representatives can boast an abundance of luxurious fur on the muzzle in the form of sideburns, a thick collar in the neck and chest area, as well as in the area of ​​the back and tail. A close-fitting coat is only on the front part of the limbs and on the nose.

Also read:

• medium-sized dog breeds;
• long-haired dogs;
• short-haired dogs.

Keeshond color

Keeshond color is not so straightforward: if we discuss the overall color scheme, then there are two colors: black and gray. Any shade of gray is acceptable according to the standard; other colors are not recommended.

The Keeshond’s acceptable color (which could be lighter or darker)

The undercoat ranges in color from cream to any shade of gray. The guard hairs are dark at the tip and light at the base. The intensity of the dark color has a direct bearing on the dog’s overall color. Black "glasses" are a must for the muzzle; the ears are likewise colored in this hue. The back of the tail and the fur around the breeches, muff, and chest are paler in color. The paws have a cream-colored hue.

When evaluating an animal at an exhibition, experts focus on preserving its natural beauty. Fur processing is only permitted in areas close to the lips and limbs, and then only when absolutely necessary. A trimmed Keeshond may also be barred from breeding in addition to being prohibited from showing in the show.

Training and training of the Keeshond

These adorable and joyful canines are incredibly intelligent and easy to train, and their curiosity only serves to expedite the process. Representatives of this breed are given the significant responsibility of companions in Holland, a role they handle quite well. For this reason, instead of teaching these pets useful skills, their training frequently consists of amusing commands.

Picture of a Keeshond puppy

In addition to being prominent participants in numerous exhibitions and enjoying immense popularity there, regular dog lovers also show them more affection and attention. Which is generally not surprising given her lovely appearance and submissive nature.

However, the German Wolfspitz is raised somewhat differently. These dogs go through special training that equips them with skills in protecting families and property because they are employed as guard dogs in Germany. Dogs learn here to stay inside their owners’ spaces until they are trusted. What does this signify? Additionally, this breed’s representatives have a fairly flexible nature, with the owner being the only one who decides what kind of training and skills the pet will receive.

Keeshond Care

The Keeshond Wolfspitz is a reasonably adaptable dog that can live in an apartment or on the street. Furthermore, the breed’s representatives themselves are adaptable to any environment.

1. The main point in care is visible to the naked eye – this is a long, fluffy coat with a rich undercoat. The pet will have to be combed at least once a week, and ideally – daily, using a special brush with long metal teeth. During the seasonal moulting period (in spring and autumn), another tool is needed – a slicker brush, and the procedure will have to be performed every day. Again, it is worth recalling that according to the approved standard, the Keeshond should not be trimmed, it is necessary for the dog to look as natural as possible.
2. Dogs are distinguished by their cleanliness, so they rarely get dirty and do not require frequent washing. In some cases, dirt can be removed using a brush, or a dry detergent can be used. But frequent bathing can harm the pet, damaging the top layer of skin and, as a result, the hair structure.
3. Both the ears and eyes of the pet need regular care, which should be examined 1-2 times a week. For washing the eyes, you can use chamomile broth. It is enough to wipe the ears with a damp swab soaked in water or an antiseptic. Keeshonds" claws are trimmed once a month.

Photo of a Keeshond

Video about a Keeshond

The Keeshond is a devoted, amiable, and active friend who does best in a household setting. They have expressive faces and thick, fluffy coats that make them not only a stunning breed but also smart and vivacious.

Keeshonds are a popular breed of dogs for families because of their affection for people and their playful nature. They get along well with kids and other pets. They’ll become a well-liked member of any household quickly thanks to their gregarious, upbeat attitude.

The Keeshond might be the ideal dog for you if you’re searching for one that is protective, loving, and constantly willing to please. They’ll reward you with years of love and company if you give them the right care and attention.

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