Keeshond - plural is Keeshonden
Dog ideal Height: 18 in. (46 cm) at withers.
Bitch ideal Height: 17 in. (43 cm) at withers.
Dog Type takes precedence over height.
Watchdog: Excellent.
Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years. |
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The Keeshond Dog,
The National Dog of Holland.
Keeshond, pronounced "Kayshond" (pl. Keeshonden)
is a member of the Spitz family of dogs. It has been well
known throughout the Netherlands since the middle of the
18th century, where it was a very popular family pet of the
people. It was so often used as a guard dog on the canal
barges in those days, that it was commonly known as
"The Barge Dog".
The Keeshond derived its present day name from a little
dog "Kees" named after the nickname given to his master,
a political leader of the "Patriots" at a time of great social
unrest in Europe, preceding the French Revolution.
Keeshonden are very handsome medium size dogs with a
luxurious, thick grey, black and cream stand-off coat. It
is outgoing and friendly with both people and other dogs.
The Keeshond is very loyal and protective and good with
children. Its coat should have a frequent brushing
and it needs regular outdoor exercise. Being
very intelligent, training a Keeshond puppy
should be a rewarding experience. |
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