ADDITIONAL KEESHOND PICTURES
Family: Spitz
Breed Group: Northern, AKC Non-Sporting
Origin: The Netherlands
Date of Origin: 18th century
Originally used for: Watchdog on riverboats and farms
Used today: Companion
Other Name(s): Wolf Spitz, Deutscher Wolfspitz, Dutch Barge Dog
History of the Breed: The Keeshond is named after the 18th-century Dutch patriot, Cornelis (Kees) de Gyselaer who led the Dutch rebellion
against the House of Orange. The Keeshond was used as the symbol of the Patriot Rebellion. The breed was very popular with riverboat captains
serving both as watchdogs and companions. The Keeshond is a Spitz type dog and is either of Arctic, or Sub-Arctic origin and is related to the
same family that produced the Samoyed, the Chow Chow, the Norwegian Elkhound, the Finnish Spitz, and the Pomeranian. When the Prince of Orange
became prominent many decided to get rid of the dog that stood for the opposition party. The breed was in great decline until 1920, at which time
the Baroness van Hardenbroek became interested in the breed and undertook measures to restore the population throughout Europe.
General Appearance: The Keeshond is a medium-sized, square shaped, breed with a short-coupled Spitz type body. The head is wedge-shaped
with a definite stop and with a fox-like appearance. The eyes are almond shaped, medium sized and dark brown. The ears are small, triangular in
shape, erect and mounted high on the head. The body is compact with a short, straight back, short loin and deep and strong chest. The black tipped
coat is long and straight with harsh hair standing well out from the undercoat. The head, including muzzle, skull and ears are covered with smooth,
soft, short hair. The neck is covered with a mane that covers the shoulders and chest. The tail is richly plumed and carried in a curled position
over the back.
Height & Weight:
Height 16-19 Inches
Weight 34-45 Pounds
Coat: A double coat, a thick downey undercoat and a long, straight, harsh hair top coat. The head, including muzzle, skull and ears,
should be covered with smooth, soft, short hair. The neck is covered with a mane that covers the shoulders and chest. The hair on the tail forms
a rich plume.
Color: A mixture of gray, black and cream. The hair of the outer coat is black tipped.
Grooming needs: Medium, recommend weekly brushing this breed sheds heavily twice a year.
Temperament of Breed: This breed makes an excellent family pet however, Keeshonds have a tendency towards excessive barking.
Friendly with children: Yes
Friendly with other dogs: Yes, if properly socialized starting at a young age
Suitability as a watchdog: Excellent
Exercise Level: Medium
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Hip dysplasia, vonWillebrand's Disease, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 12-14 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 93
First Registered by the AKC: 1930
Registries: CKC, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
Keeshond Club of America
The Keeshond Club of Canada
The Keeshond Club
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