Background: Keeshonds (pronounced kayz-hawnd) are believed to have originated in arctic areas. Their fascinating history goes back to ancient times. Fossil remains trace the Keeshond back to 5000 BC in the northern tips of the earth. Keeshonds are classified in the Spitz breed, along with the Samoyed, Siberian Husky, Pomeranian and others. Some believe the German Wolfsspitz and the Keeshond are the same breed.
Particularly well known in Holland during the 18th century, Keeshonds were the symbol of the Dutch patriot during the war. The keeshond got its current name from Cornelius (Kees is the nickname in Holland for Cornelius) de Gyselaer, a Dutch Patriot leader. When the Patriots lost, the popularity of the newly named Keeshond quickly faded and many were destroyed so the owners were not associated with the defeated Patriots. After nearly 100 years, Miss J.G. Van der Blom is credited with bringing the Keeshond back to popularity when she showed her Keeshond in Amsterdam in 1891. Previous names were Wolfsspitz (Germany), Chiens Loup (France), Lupini (Italy) and Keeshonden (Holland). Keeshonds are a nonsporting breed and were never bred for hunting or killing, perhaps attributing to their gentle nature. They are known for their friendly, gentle and lively personality. Throughout history Keeshond’s were used on river boats and farms as reliable watchdogs and loyal family pet. The American Kennel Club first recognized the Keeshond in 1930.
Appearance: Keeshond are 17-19 inches long with an average weight of 35-45 pounds. They have a short body with a distinct fox-like appearance to their head. The markings around a keeshond’s eyes give it a spectacle look. Keeshonds have coarse thick hair, usually a combination of grey, black, cream or dark brown coloring. The full tail curls over the back.
Temperament: A Keeshond is a gentle, intelligent, loyal and very social dog, especially fond of children. Keeshonds easily make friends with people, children, other dogs and animals (yes, even cats). Their pleasant, fox-like face often looks like it is smiling, matching their outgoing personality. Consistency is the key to training the keeshond. Although very intelligent and eager to please, they do have a “mind of their own.” They may be a little bit stubborn on a first training session, but are then quick and eager to train. Harsh and/or aggressive discipline should be avoided, as Keeshonds have a gentle disposition. Keeshonds are very agile, quick on their feet and excellent jumpers.
Health and Care: The life expectancy of a keeshond is 12-15 years. Keeshond are lively and need a moderate amount of exercise, and should be walked daily. Many dogs who do not get enough exercise will spin around “chasing their tail.” The solution is more exercise, perhaps an extra walk or run in a back yard. Keeshonds have thick undercoats that shed in the spring and fall. Regular brushing is needed, at least twice a week. Because of their thick coat, they do well in cool weather and do not tolerate hot weather well. They are instinctively clean dogs and easily house trained, like to clean themselves and other buddies in the household. They are known to groom their own paws and faces of other dogs, much like a cat is known to do.
Where to find certified breeders: The cost of a purebred Keeshond puppy will range between $600-1000 in the United States. Many breeders are registered with the AKC (American Kennel Club), which sets high standards for breeders. See their website listed below for keeshond AKA registered breeders. AKC registered, Keeshond Heaven, located in Lenhartsville, Pennsylvania, has been breeding Keeshonds since 1984. Check out their web site at www.keeshondheaven.com for more information and for puppy availability.
A Keeshond mix can also have many of the desirable qualities of a purebred Keeshond (the second picture is of a Keeshond mixed dog). Keeshonds are a true companion dog that thrive on being a member of the family. A Keeshond is the perfect dog for someone who can give the keeshond the attention, exercise and care they need.
sources:
www.keeshond.org
www.dogbreedinfo.com
www.keeshondheaven.com
