The Keeshond Dog Guide, The Guardian of the Netherlands What Makes This Beautiful Breed So Unique

BY | June 18 | COMMENTS PUBLISHED BY
The Keeshond Dog Guide, The Guardian of the Netherlands

The Keeshond originates from the Netherlands, and was used to guard boats, then became the mascot of the patriot forces during the Dutch rebellion.

Large BreedHip DysplasiaKeeshond

Is The Keeshond Good For You?

  • 1The Keeshond dog breed makes the perfect family pet and childrens playmate with their composed nature.
  • 2They are quick learners and very intelligent.
  • 3Keeshonds do well with other breeds as long as they are properly trained.

HISTORY

The Keeshond is native to the Netherlands and descended from the northern dog breed lines of Samoyeds, Huskies, and Norwegian Elkhounds. Looking a lot like the Spitz family of dog, they used to be called the German Spitz. In the past this breed was used to guard canal boats and they played a role in the Dutch rebellion against the House of Orange, becoming a symbol for the rebellion. They got their name from the Dutch revolutionary Kees de Gyselaer, the leader of the Dutch Patriot political party. The Keeshond was introduced to America in the 1920s and soon gained widespread recognition as a marvelous house pet.

Quick Facts

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    Size

    Medium

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    Lifespan

    12 and 15 years

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    Hair Length

    Long

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    Male Height

    17-19 inches

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    Male Weight

    35-40 pounds

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    Female Height

    15 - 17 inches

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    Female Weight

    30-35 pounds

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    Litter Size

    3 and 8 puppies

Personality

The Keeshond is very bright, loving, and tolerant. They make for exceptional childrens pets because of their playful, friendly demeanor. They are very quick learners because of their advanced intelligence and wanting to please their family. They are prone to barking, so they make good watchdogs, but it is best to socialize this behavior out of them early. .

Color

These dogs can be a mix of grey, black, or cream colors.

Health Concerns

The lifespan of the Keeshond breed is expected to be around 13-15 years. These dogs are at a higher risk of developing:

While not as common as the grey-colored dogs, Keeshonds can also be white. All-white dogs are excluded from some dogs shows.

Appearance

Thanks to the genetic mishmash that makes up the Keeshond, they can often be mistaken for a Samoyed, Chow Chow, Elkhound, or Pomeranian. They have the same thick coat and body type. The Keeshond tail acts like a little puff ball that rests on top of their back, even though when it is unfurled it is of medium length. Their muzzle is medium in length and is well proportioned to the overall size of their head. On average, Keeshonds range from 17-19 inches tall and are roughly 35 pounds.

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