The Keeshond Community

The Keeshond is a handsome and characterful Dutch spitz breed with a long history as a barge dog and companion on the canals and waterways of the Netherlands. The breed takes its name from the eighteenth-century Dutch patriot Cornelis de Gyselaer, whose nickname was Kees and whose dog, also named Kees, became a symbol of the Dutch Patriot political movement in the 1780s. After a period of decline in the Netherlands, the breed was revived in the early twentieth century and was recognised by the Kennel Club of Great Britain in the Utility Group, where it remains a well-regarded if moderately uncommon presence. The Keeshond is an immediately recognisable dog. The profuse double coat forms a characteristic lion-like mane around the neck and shoulders, with the thick tail carried in a tight curl over the back. The face shows the distinctive spectacles markings - a pattern of shading and lines around the eyes that gives the breed a characteristic alert and almost quizzical expression. The coat is grey, black and cream in a specific wolf-grey pattern, with a pale underbody. Adults typically stand 43 to 46 centimetres at the shoulder and weigh 16 to 20 kilograms. The character is outgoing, affectionate and genuinely people-focused. The Keeshond is a companion breed through and through - it bonds closely with its family, is good with children, generally sociable with other dogs and has an adaptable, willing quality that makes it more trainable than many spitz breeds. It does not do well in isolation and is happiest when involved in family life. It is an alert watchdog and will announce visitors, though it is not a guard dog. Training is enjoyable with a Keeshond. The breed responds well to positive reinforcement and has been successful in obedience, agility and other dog sports. It is an enthusiastic and engaging training partner. Health considerations include Hip Dysplasia, for which hip scoring is recommended. Hereditary heart conditions and Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease) have been documented in the breed, and eye testing is recommended. The breed can also be affected by Primary Hyperparathyroidism, for which a DNA test is available - responsible breeders should test before breeding. Purchase prices from KC-registered, health-tested breeders range from £1,000 to £2,000. Monthly running costs average £80 to £140. The Keeshond Club is the primary resource for breed information, health testing guidance, responsible breeders and rescue contact.