Appearance
The Keeshond (plural is Keeshunden, pronounced "kayz-hond") is a natural,
handsome dog who resembles the spitz of the northern breeds with their richly plumed
tail that curls over their back and their thick coat. They are short, sturdy dogs, and have
been referred to as the "Overweight Pomeranian" in Victorian England.
Temperament
Keeshonds are independent, affectionate and alert. They make good watchdogs. They
are self willed, and need proper training and firm but positive instruction to ensure
compliance. They are friendly with everyone, fun loving and happy. They get along well
with children and other pets. They are eager to learn, intelligent and highly trainable.
History
Also known as the Dutch Barge Dog, the Keeshond was developed from the northern
sleigh dogs of the Artic. These spitz type dogs have been around in Holland for
hundreds of years. They are believed to have come from Vikings. A different legend tells
of a Viking ship which sank, with only the chieftain's son surviving. He was rescued by a
Christian fisherman of northern Holland and his dog. The fisherman, the rescuee and
the dog all landed on a foreign land and built a chapel to St. Olaf out of gratefulness for
finding land.
The Keeshond (plural is Keeshunden, pronounced "kayz-hond") is a natural,
handsome dog who resembles the spitz of the northern breeds with their richly plumed
tail that curls over their back and their thick coat. They are short, sturdy dogs, and have
been referred to as the "Overweight Pomeranian" in Victorian England.
Temperament
Keeshonds are independent, affectionate and alert. They make good watchdogs. They
are self willed, and need proper training and firm but positive instruction to ensure
compliance. They are friendly with everyone, fun loving and happy. They get along well
with children and other pets. They are eager to learn, intelligent and highly trainable.
History
Also known as the Dutch Barge Dog, the Keeshond was developed from the northern
sleigh dogs of the Artic. These spitz type dogs have been around in Holland for
hundreds of years. They are believed to have come from Vikings. A different legend tells
of a Viking ship which sank, with only the chieftain's son surviving. He was rescued by a
Christian fisherman of northern Holland and his dog. The fisherman, the rescuee and
the dog all landed on a foreign land and built a chapel to St. Olaf out of gratefulness for
finding land.
Other Names: German Wolf Spitz, Foxdog,
Fik, Dutch Barge Dog, Chien Loup, Smiling
Dutchman, Overweight Pomeranian.
Fik, Dutch Barge Dog, Chien Loup, Smiling
Dutchman, Overweight Pomeranian.
Coat:
Origin:
Height:
Color:
Guard Ability:
Life Span:
Weight:
Learning rate:
Obedience:
Temperament:
Watch Ability:
Activity level:
17 -19 inches
Very High
High
13 -15 Years
Long and straight with hairs standing out
Low
Netherlands
Mixture of gray, black, and cream
Low to Moderate
Independent, affectionate and alert
30 - 66 pounds
Medium - High
| Keeshond |
