31 Dec Keeshond Dog: A Fluffy Companion for Your Family

Keeshond dog, often called the “Smiling Dutchman,” is a breed that is very popular worldwide. Originating from the Arctic region, these medium-sized dogs boast a distinctive fox-like expression and a luxurious double coat that adds to their charm. Beyond their captivating appearance, Keeshonds have a rich historical background, dating back to the 18th-century Netherlands, where they were cherished as loyal companions to Dutch patriots.

This guide will evaluate the various facets of Keeshond ownership, from their physical characteristics and temperament to essential care tips, health considerations, and their role as family pets. Whether you’re a prospective Keeshond owner or a dog lover seeking insights into this delightful breed, join us on a journey through the world of Keeshonds, where fluffiness meets friendship.

The Origin and History of Keeshond Dog

The Keeshond’s story begins in the Arctic region, where was a descendant of the Samoyed, Chow Chow, and Pomeranian breeds. Initially, these dogs served as companions and watchdogs to Arctic nomads, showcasing their versatility and adaptability in harsh climates.

The Keeshond’s journey took a significant turn when it went to the Netherlands in the 18th century. The breed became intricately linked with Dutch patriotism and political movements during this time.

Keeshonds found favour among Dutch patriots, particularly during the Patriot Revolt 1787. The breed became a symbol of the political party led by the Patriots, and they were affectionately referred to as “Patriot Dogs” or “Smoushonden.” Beyond their political symbolism, Keeshonds endeared themselves to the common people of the Netherlands. They were cherished as loyal companions, watchdogs, and barge dogs guarding riverboats.

Unfortunately, the Keeshond declined in popularity during the early 19th century. Changes in political tides contributed to their waning status. However, the breed experienced a revival in the early 20th century, thanks to dedicated enthusiasts who worked to preserve and promote its unique qualities.

The Keeshond’s charm and distinctive appearance led to its recognition by kennel clubs. In 1928, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed, solidifying its place in the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.

Today, Keeshonds are cherished as family pets. They are famous for their friendly disposition and distinctive “spectacles” – facial markings that give them a perpetually smiling expression. They participate in various dog shows, showcasing their historical significance and enduring appeal as beloved companions.

Physical Characteristics

• Fluffy Double Coat: One of the most striking features of the Keeshond is its beautiful double coat. This dense, plush fur has a soft, downy undercoat and longer guard hairs on the outer layer. The coat gives the Keeshond its characteristic fluffiness, providing insulation and protection in various weather conditions.
• Fox-Like Expression: Keeshond’s face is adorned with a fox-like expression that adds to its overall allure. This expression is accentuated by the breed’s pointed ears, dark almond-shaped eyes, and distinctive facial markings, often called “spectacles.” These facial markings create the appearance of a perpetual smile, contributing to Keeshond’s friendly and approachable demeanour.
• Size and Weight: Moderately sized, the Keeshond is a well-balanced dog with a sturdy build. Adult Keeshonds typically weigh between 35 and 45 pounds, making them manageable for various living environments. Their compact yet robust physique reflects their historical roles as watchdogs on riverboats and loyal companions to Dutch patriots.
• Plume-Like Tail: Completing the Keeshond’s regal appearance is its plume-like tail, which curls gracefully over the back. The tail, covered in the same luxurious fur as the rest of the body, adds an elegant touch to the breed’s overall silhouette.
• Distinct Coat Colors: While Keeshond’s double coat is predominantly a mix of cream and grey tones, the specific pattern and shading make each unique. The facial mask, dark “spectacles,” and markings on the legs and tail create a visually striking contrast against the lighter background, emphasizing the breed’s expressive and friendly face.

Temperament and Personality Traits of the Keeshond Dog

• Friendly and Outgoing: Keeshonds are friendly, sociable dogs who love people, including children. They make great companions in social situations due to their amiable nature towards strangers.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Beyond their fluff and charm, Keeshond dog is brilliant. This intelligence and their eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train. Positive methods, such as treats and praise, work effectively with Keeshonds, creating a positive and cooperative training experience.
• Energetic and Playful: Keeshonds are inherently energetic dogs that love to play and engage in activities. Keeshond playful nature makes them excellent companions for families with active lifestyles. Doing exercise, including daily walks and play sessions, helps channel their energy positively and contributes to their overall well-being.
• Loyal and Protective: Keeshonds are famous for their unwavering loyalty to their families. As descendants of watchdogs, they retain a protective instinct, making them reliable guardians. While they are not aggressive, their alertness and vocal nature make them excellent alert dogs, signalling the presence of visitors or potential threats.
• Adaptable and Sociable: Keeshonds are adaptable and content in various living conditions, whether in an apartment or a house with a yard. They get along well with other pets and are great for multi-pet households with proper introductions.
• Patience and Gentle with Children: Keeshonds exhibit remarkable patience and gentleness, especially when interacting with children. Their friendly nature and sturdy build make them suitable companions for families with kids. Proper socialization from an early age enhances their ability to interact positively with children.
• Ideal Companion for Active Individuals: The Smiling Dutchman fits the bill for individuals seeking an active and affectionate companion. Their love for outdoor activities and their caring nature make them well-suited for those who enjoy engaging with their pets.

Training Techniques

• Basic Commands: Start with commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. These basic commands form the foundation of obedience training and help establish a clear line of communication between you and your Keeshond.
• Positive Reinforcement: Keeshond dog responds exceptionally well to positive reinforcement. Use treats, praise, and affection as rewards for good behaviour.
• Consistency is Key: Consistency is crucial in Keeshond training. Establish a routine for feeding, walks, and playtime. Consistency in commands and expectations helps reinforce desired behaviours and minimizes confusion for your Keeshond.
• Socialization Importance: Early and ongoing socialization is vital for Keeshond puppies. Expose them to various people, environments, and other animals. This way, you ensure they grow into well-rounded and confident adults. 
• Clicker Training: Consider using a clicker as part of your training toolkit. Clicker training allows you to mark desired behaviours instantly, helping your Keeshond associate sound with positive outcomes. This method is particularly effective for precise communication during training sessions.
• Interactive Toys and Games: Keeshonds are playful dogs, and incorporating interactive toys and games into their training sessions keeps them engaged and mentally stimulated. Also, puzzle toys and games challenge their problem-solving skills.
• Patience and Positive Tone: Maintain a patient and positive tone during training. Keeshonds thrives on positive interactions and may become disheartened by harsh corrections. Encourage them enthusiastically and celebrate their successes, no matter how small.
• Training in Various Environments: Extend training sessions to different environments to generalize commands. Practice commands in the backyard, at the park, and during walks. This helps your Keeshond understand that commands apply in various situations, promoting reliability.
• Professional Training Classes: Consider enrolling your Keeshond in professional training classes. These classes provide structured learning environments and opportunities for socialization with other dogs, enhancing your dog’s overall training experience.

Grooming Needs of the Keeshond Dog

• Regular Brushing: Brush your Keeshond 2-3 times a week to prevent matting and tangling. Use a slicker brush and comb during shedding seasons.
• Bathing: Keeshonds don’t smell much, so only bathe them as needed. Washing too often strips their coat of natural oils, so aim for a bath every 2-3 months or when dirty. Use a dog shampoo and rinse well to avoid skin irritation.
• Coat Maintenance: Trim the hair on the bottom of your Smiling Dutchman’s feet to keep their paws tidy. Additionally, trim the hair around their ears to prevent mats and improve air circulation. While the Keeshond’s coat naturally sheds dirt, regular grooming helps maintain its lustrous appearance.
• Ears and Eyes: Check your Keeshond’s ears regularly for signs of infection or wax buildup. Clean ears with a dog ear cleaner if necessary. Wipe around their eyes with a damp cloth to prevent tear stains and ensure there’s no discharge affecting their vision.
• Nail Trimming: Regular nail trimming is essential to prevent discomfort and potential injury for your Keeshond. Use a dog nail clipper or grinder, and trim the nails every 4-6 weeks. Be cautious not to cut into the quick, as this can cause bleeding and pain.
• Seasonal Shedding: Keeshonds shed regularly throughout the year and more heavily during seasonal changes. During shedding seasons, increase brushing frequency to remove loose hair and prevent matting. This helps keep your home cleaner and reduces the risk of skin issues.
• Mishka Grooming Professional Service: Consider our professional grooming sessions for your Keeshond dog, especially if you need more time to perform specific grooming tasks yourself. Our experienced groomers can provide expert care, trimming, shaping, and meeting all grooming needs for your Smiling Dutchman. Book a grooming session now.

Common Health Issues in Smiling Dutchman

• Hip Dysplasia: this problem is common in larger dogs like Keeshonds. It happens when the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket correctly, leading to joint instability and arthritis. Veterinary check-ups can help prevent and manage hip dysplasia.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a genetic condition causing vision loss in Keeshonds. Regular vet check-ups and responsible breeding practices, including genetic screening, can reduce its prevalence.
• Luxating Patella: Luxating patella, or kneecap dislocation, is another orthopaedic concern in Keeshonds. This condition can cause lameness and discomfort. Exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and early intervention can help manage luxating patella.
• Thyroid Issues:  Keeshonds may show thyroid issues, including hypothyroidism. Regular thyroid screenings and blood tests can help diagnose and manage thyroid disorders. Medication and dietary adjustments may be prescribed by a veterinarian to address thyroid-related issues.
• Dental Problems: Keeshonds are susceptible to dental issues, including periodontal disease and tooth decay. Regular dental care, including brushing your Keeshond’s teeth, providing dental chews, and scheduling professional dental cleanings, helps maintain good oral health.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): Bloat is a condition in Smiling Dutchman. To reduce the risk, feed smaller meals, avoid exercise after meals, and monitor for discomfort or bloating.
• Urinary Issues: Keeshonds can have urinary issues such as infections and stones. To prevent and manage such concerns, ensure they drink enough water, eat well and visit the vet regularly.
• Allergies: Smiling Dutchman may have allergies to their surroundings or food, causing redness, itching, and ear infections. It’s essential to identify and remove the allergen with the guidance of a veterinarian.
• Heart Conditions: While not extremely common, Keeshonds may be susceptible to certain heart conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, significantly as your Keeshond ages, can help monitor heart health and detect any issues early on.

The Last Word

With its enchanting history and delightful characteristics, the Keeshond dog is an excellent addition to any family. From its Arctic origins to its role in Dutch patriotism, the Keeshond’s friendly temperament, intelligence, and adaptability shine through. Whether grooming their luxurious double coat, training with positive reinforcement, or addressing common health concerns, the journey of Keeshond ownership shows joy, companionship, and forming a lasting bond. Embracing Smiling Dutchman means welcoming not just a visually charming companion but a loyal friend that enriches the lives of its human family with love and devotion.