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The Keeshond dog breed is medium - sized andiron that are affectionate , playful , and intelligent , spend a penny them excellent pets .
Also known as the “ Dutch Barge Dog , ” the Keeshond dog is a breed that originated in the Netherlands . They are sweet - natured dogs that make loving and loyal companions .
Keeshonds are people buff making them fantabulous family pets . These dog like to be around their possessor and take part in family activities .
They are part of the spitz family , with theSamoyed , Chow , andPomeranianas their first cousin . But the Keeshond is less self-governing than the others .
If you ’re project to adopt a Keeshond puppy , we ’ll tackle everything you need about the Keeshond dog breed .
We ’ve got you covered — from their history to their temperament and grooming needs !
Keeshond History
Some believe the Keeshond are descendants of the same arctic strain that made the Samoyed , Spitz , and Norwegian Elkhound .
Keeshonds are gentle and devoted to their people . That ’s why some believed they were not breed to be hunting dogs . Rather , they were made to be companion dogs .
Long ago , in the 17th and eighteenth centuries , Keeshonds ( pronounced KAYZ - hawnd ) were breed to be fellow and watchdogs on epithelial duct lighter of his native land , Holland , and modest boats calledrijnakenon the Rhine River .
He was known as the Dutch Barge Dog for many age .
The Keeshond became the most get it on hot dog in Holland as it became the symbolization of the Patriot Party in the 18th Century .
Because at that time , Holland was fraction into two sections : theprinsgezinden , also known as the followers of the Prince of Orange , and then we have the patriots orpatriotten .
The Patriots ' loss leader Kees de Gyselaer , owned a hotdog make Kees . This go to their name , “ Kees ' dog , ” which is “ Kees hund ” in Dutch .
However , the followers of the Prince of Orange won against the patriots , and Keeshond ’s popularity vanished .
And it became dangerous for the great unwashed to own a Keeshond because of its political signification .
Centuries passed , and Keeshond came back with a payback . The breed started to acquire its popularity back .
In 1920 , Baroness van Hardenbroeak found Keeshond dog from riverboat captain , granger , and other working citizenry .
She became interested in these dogs and started to cover them . In ten years , the Dutch Keeshond Club was formed .
Furthermore , in 1923 , Carl Hinderer engender the first American Keeshonds bedding material . And the stock have recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1930 .
Keeshond Physical Traits
keeshond are beautiful weenie and are known for their fluffy pelage . They have a thick , double - top coat , a woolly underseal , and longer guard hair .
The Keeshond dog breed is unsuitable for hot or humid climates because of its wooden-headed coats . It would be best to keep them in cold environment .
Their colour can be a compounding of cream , grey , and black . These intermediate - sized dogs also have typical spectacle markings around their eyes .
Their eyes are also almond - shaped and are rimmed in fateful .
Their pinna are set high on their question and little , pointy , and erect . On the other hand , their nozzle is submarine sandwich - shaped and dark blackness .
Keeshond ’s tail is furry , kept gamy , and twist over the back . A Keeshond varies in size and exercising weight depending on gender .
Female Kees stand 17 inches tall , press at least 35 pounds . On the other hand , male Keeshonds are just a small bit improbable , standing 18 in tall and weighing 45 Irish punt .
Keeshond Temperament
As we ’ve undertake above , Keeshonds were in the first place breed to be associate firedog .
They are also not hunters or otherworking dogsas they do n’t have the desire for any specific job .
Nevertheless , these wiener are still highly intelligent and comfortable to train . They can learn canine fashion where they can act courteously on their own . Kees can also be good in obedience rival .
However , they can get a little mischievous and stubborn , so you must be patient .
keeshond are alive and affectionate dog . Also known as the “ Smiling Dutchman , ” these wiener are delightful and playful , making them ideal family pets .
These dogs want to spread erotic love and joyfulness to all their family members .
Keeshonds are also alert dogs , making them excellentwatchdogs . They are very sharp and will tell their owners if strangers are coming near their prop .
Living with a Keeshond
keeshond are adaptable pawl . But it would be best to keep them in a cold climate .
Keeshonds can adjust to apartment living , but beware , as they are loud barkers which can be a nuisance for neighbors .
Also , it is not recommended for a Keeshond to be alone for long hours . These dogs are prone toseparation anxiety .
breakup anxiety can direct to excessive vocalization , destructive behaviors , and house - soiling . So be sure not to let your Keeshond be left unattended .
Just like any other blackguard stock , Keeshonds will do good from other socialization . Expose your Keeshond to different people , places , sounds , and run a risk .
Socialization at a young historic period can help your pup be a well - rounded blackguard .
As favored parents , we must train shaver to properly approach , touch modality , or play with hound . Supervise all of their interaction to help forbid unwanted biting and ear or tail pulling on both party .
Training and Exercise
Since Keeshond dogs are very smart domestic dog , with their intelligence and wonder , these dogs are comfortable to trail . And just like socialization , training is best to begin at a young age .
Keeshonds responds best topositive strengthener training . These hot dog can do well in respect and lightsomeness .
But first , you ’ll need to work onbasic commands , such as sit and remain and right leash walking manners .
You should also train their skills or commands to behave well with little children and other pets .
If you project to adopt a Keeshond , remember that these dogs often shin with separation anxiety . help oneself them divvy up with this will be all important in the future .
Slowly solve on their alone clip by leaving abbreviated mo often and praising them when calm and well - behaved .
Keeshonds are medium - sized dogs that do n’t want high workout needs . They are not really for people who enjoy long streamlet .
Plan at least one vigorous walking daily , which can also be a way for you to exercise .
Health Care
The Keeshond is generally a healthy dog with a life expectancy of 13 to 15 long time !
However , like other dog breeds , they are susceptible to certain health conditions you should look out for .
Finding areputable breederis easily advised if you want to adopt a new pet . Trusted breeder can provide wellness clearance for the puppy and the pup ’s parent .
Below , we ’ve gather a few health problems that Keeshond dogs are prone to .
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasiais a hereditary condition wherein the socket of the joint and ball becomes deformed .
If your Kees gets diagnose with pelvis dysplasia , it ’s crucial to keep their weight within the stock kitchen range and have them exercise with activity that encourage joint therapy .
Your vet can dictate medications for anti - inflammatory , pain backup man , and supplements for this unwellness .
If you desire to prevent this condition , keep them active but not to the point that they might injure themselves .
Elbow Dysplasia
Like articulatio coxae dysplasia , elbow dysplasia is a transmissible condition . One potential suit of this condition is the different growth traits of the three bones that make up their cubital joint .
dog hurt from elbow dysplasia will suffer from painful lameness .
Your vet can recommend surgery to treat and correct the problem and will advise your pup take medication to command the painful sensation .
Patellar Luxation
Patellar Luxationoccurs when the patella move its conjunction out of the femur . Similar to the conditions above . Like the ones above , patellar luxation is a hereditary disorder in dogs .
This can range from high to low layer of luxation , and each requires different treatments .
Symptoms may include skipping and kicking off the leg . It ’s serious to connect with the vet for treatments , therapies , or routine to help Keeshond with this condition .
If your Kees has been diagnose with Patellar Luxation , it should never be engender anymore . It ’s upright not to contribute these despairing conditions to their offspring .
Addison’s Disease
Addison ’s Diseaseis a insufficiency in the hormonal proportion that make the click to have frequent gastrointestinal topic , unstable due to lack of an outlet for accent , and gradual red of torso state .
Even though it has no bar , it is still good to have your dog check up on up , and keeping their medications up to date may thin out painful burden .
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive Retinal Atrophy , or PRA , is another problem Keeshonds are prone to .
This degenerative condition affects the rod and strobilus cells in the eyes , leading to blindness .
It is also a hereditary disease be intimate to have no treatment yet . Unfortunately , this disease can progress apace from a year or two .
It is best advise to have your dog ’s optic often checked to reduce the risk of infection of this circumstance .
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidismis the static function of the thyroid gland secretor . In this condition , the dog ’s metabolism is slowed down .
The immune system attack the thyroid secreter as it does not recognize it . It is also usually a genetic condition .
For Keeshonds know lethargy , irksome heart charge per unit , exercising weight gain , excessive desquamation , and high cholesterol , it ’s best to have them tested by a vet .
The veterinarian may give maintenance and advocate diet . It ’s best to have this precondition checked and addressed immediately .
Cataracts
Cataractsare another middle job Keeshonds are prone to . It is the gradual clouding of the lens in the optic . It can impair their eyesight and even cause cecity in uttermost case .
Even though this is more plebeian in elderly wienerwurst , it can also be developed through genetics , traumatic centre injuries , nutritionary deficiencies , or diabetes .
Have your pet undergo an ophthalmic examination to observe little cataract as early as four to five years old .
To set whether it is blinding , it is better to hold back with your veterinarian to be informed what procedure should be done .
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a condition that stimulate meek or severeseizuresin dogs .
It can be inherited , because of metabolic disorderliness , psyche injuries , or tumors . Unfortunately , the cause of idiopathic epilepsy is still strange .
Veterinarians may distribute anti - seizure , but it can only reduce the severity of the capture .
secure your Keeshond is checked directly to allow for the right medication for the disorder .
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes Mellitusis a continuing endocrine disease triggered by insulin inadequacy . This is often diagnosed in middle - aged or older felines and canine tooth .
Treatment may depend on the typeface . doctor may often recommend alimony medicine and dieting limitation to managediabetes in dogs .
Grooming
preparation is crucial not just for aesthetics but also to help oneself prevent certain health issues .
As we ’ve tackled above , Keeshonds have a dense and downy coat . However , that does n’t mean that they ’ll require broad grooming demand .
These dog-iron have evenhandedly low - sustainment preparation needs . Brush them at least double hebdomadal to avoid matting and tangles , and you could bath them as often as every three months .
You might think shaving their duncish coats is best in the summer , but their coat are insulated . It keep their body nerveless , and it protects them from sunburn .
Trim their nails regularly , at least once a calendar month . When trim their nail , a good rule is never to let them touch the ground .
Moreover , check his ears for dirt , redness , or big smell since these can be symptoms of an contagion . pass over them cautiously with a cotton plant chunk dampen with ear cleaners .
sweep their teeth at least two to three times a week . Daily brush is best recommended to ward off tartar buildup and take away bacterium lurking inside their mouth .
Frequently Asked Questions About Keeshonds
Is a Keeshond a good family dog?
Yes , Keeshonds are great family dogs . These pawl are voguish , affectionate , and loyal dogs .
Their playful and loving nature makes them idealistic house pets .
They are also suitable for first - time owners since they are highly levelheaded and easy to train .
Are Keeshond dogs aggressive?
No , Keeshonds are rarely aggressive . These dog are playful and lively . Keeshonds have a unchanging temperament that makes them great family fellow .
Keeshonds also make excellent watchdog because of their history .
Do Keeshonds make good guard dogs?
Keeshonds are much well as guard dog than guard dog since it is what they were made to do .
Keeshonds are too friendly and pleasant to be safeguard dog . They get along with almost everybody .
However , they will still skin at strangers near your prop , make up them excellent watchdog .
Keeshond Dog Breed Profile: Summary
If you plan to take up a newfangled favorite , consider a Keeshond puppy . This northerly European blackguard strain is affectionate , favorable , and intelligent dogs .
Originally engender to be companion and watchdogs , these domestic dog have come a long way of life .
In this twenty-four hours and age , a Keeshond can be a great add-on to the crime syndicate . They can easily adapt to different variety of lifestyles .
However , it is always recommended for them to live in inhuman climates .
These flossy dogs are not just cute . Do n’t let their looks dupe you because they are also highly level-headed . And due to their brainpower , they are gentle to train .
