Keeshonden

dog
Type
Non-Sporting
Temperament
Cheerful, loyal & empathetic
Average Weight
dog weight
35 - 45 lbs
Grooming
Weekly brushing required
Average Lifespan
12 - 14 Years
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It’s hard to find a breed happier, friendlier, and fuzzier than the Keeshond. Here is all you need to know about the dog known as The Smiling Dutchman.

In the 17th century, the Keeshond kept Dutch sailors company on barges and boats. Today, the bright and happy Keeshond makes a superb family pet and a loyal companion. Perhaps the gentlest of the spitz family, Keeshonden are notorious for their companionship, intuition and compassion. In fact, Keeshond dogs were kept on hand to comfort firefighters during 9/11. With their naturally friendly and loving disposition, it’s easy to see how the Keeshond breed earned its nickname of “The Smiling Dutchman.”

A true companion dog, the Keeshond will follow you from room to room, eager to participate in all of your family’s adventures. They’re also very vocal, and love to “talk” to their owners! And best of all, their double coat gives them a striking, lion-like appearance that sets Keeshond pups apart from the crowd and makes them the perfect cuddle companion.  

Why We Love the Keeshonden Breed

  • Keeshond dogs have the perfect balance of energy — friendly and affectionate, but not overly excitable. But like all dogs, they still require daily walks and exercise for good health.
  • The Keeshond is smart and eager to please! That makes them easy to train and a great match for novice dog owners.
  • If you want a guard dog that’s all bark and no bite, the Keeshond breed is perfect for you. While these pups bark to alert their owners of strangers, Keeshonden are rarely aggressive and are happy to invite guests into your home.
  • These dogs are playful and love to clown around, especially with kids. When you adopt a Keeshond, it’s sure to keep your whole family entertained.
  • Keeshond dogs have the perfect balance of energy — friendly and affectionate, but not overly excitable. But like all dogs, they still require daily walks and exercise for good health.
  • The Keeshond is smart and eager to please! That makes them easy to train and a great match for novice dog owners.
  • If you want a guard dog that’s all bark and no bite, the Keeshond breed is perfect for you. While these pups bark to alert their owners of strangers, Keeshonden are rarely aggressive and are happy to invite guests into your home.
  • These dogs are playful and love to clown around, especially with kids. When you adopt a Keeshond, it’s sure to keep your whole family entertained.

Things to Consider

  • Excited to see you? Ready for breakfast? Startled by a strange noise? These are all occasions for the Keeshond to do its favorite activity: bark. While it’s usually welcoming, keep in mind that these dogs are very vocal.
  • Keeshonden are true companion dogs and are not very independent. They tend to bark and take up destructive behaviors when left alone for long periods of time and do best living indoors with a dedicated owner.
  • Grooming Keeshond dogs’ fluffy double coat is relatively easy, but be prepared for heavy seasonal shedding. Keeshonden “blow” their undercoat twice per year.
  • While these dogs are naturally outgoing, some Keeshonden are prone to timidity. For that reason, they need regular socialization from an early age.
  • Excited to see you? Ready for breakfast? Startled by a strange noise? These are all occasions for the Keeshond to do its favorite activity: bark. While it’s usually welcoming, keep in mind that these dogs are very vocal.
  • Keeshonden are true companion dogs and are not very independent. They tend to bark and take up destructive behaviors when left alone for long periods of time and do best living indoors with a dedicated owner.
  • Grooming Keeshond dogs’ fluffy double coat is relatively easy, but be prepared for heavy seasonal shedding. Keeshonden “blow” their undercoat twice per year.
  • While these dogs are naturally outgoing, some Keeshonden are prone to timidity. For that reason, they need regular socialization from an early age.

Why Rescue?

The Keeshond’s fuzzy coat and friendly disposition make it a desirable breed. However, owners who aren’t prepared for the responsibilities of adopting a dog may not be ready for these loyal companions. For that reason, many dogs end up in shelters or abandoned by their owners. Whether you’re searching for a Keeshond puppy or seeking an older companion to adopt, consider looking at Keeshond rescues before turning to breeders or puppy mills. 

Keeshonden Rescues

If this kind and cuddly breed is the perfect match for you, there are plenty of Keeshond rescue dogs who would love to be your second shadow. Here are just a few:

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