Keeshond: The Friendly, Fox-Faced Spitz

Quick snapshot

• Breed name: Keeshond
• Origin: Netherlands (Dutch barge and companion dog, spitz family)
• Size: Medium (typically 35–45 lb / 16–20 kg)
• Temperament: Affectionate, alert, outgoing, intelligent
• Best for: Families, active singles, and anyone who wants an affectionate companion with moderate exercise needs

A short history

The Keeshond is a historic Dutch spitz originally kept as a barge and companion dog on riverboats and barges. The breed became a symbol of the Dutch Patriot movement in the late 18th century and later regained popularity as a cherished companion and show dog. Today’s Keeshond is valued for its friendly nature, striking “spectacles” facial markings, and versatility as a household pet.

What a Keeshond looks like

Keeshonds are compact, sturdy spitz dogs with a profuse double coat, curled tail, and expressive face. Their distinctive dark markings around the eyes (the "spectacles") give them a lively, animated look.

• Height: typically 17–18 inches (43–46 cm) at the shoulder
• Weight: usually 35–45 lb (16–20 kg)
• Coat: thick double coat — dense, woolly undercoat with longer outer guard hairs
• Colors: shades of gray and cream with black tipping; pronounced facial markings ("spectacles")
• Expression: alert, friendly, and intelligent

Temperament: affectionate, alert, and social

Keeshonds are known for their affectionate, people-oriented nature. They are typically eager to please, good with children, and make alert watchdogs (they often announce visitors with a bark but are rarely aggressive).

• Very people-focused and affectionate — love family interaction
• Alert and vocal — good at letting you know when something’s up
• Playful and intelligent — enjoy games and learning tricks
• Generally good with children and other pets when socialized
• Can be a bit clingy — they prefer to be near their people

Training and socialization — consistent and positive

Keeshonds are intelligent and trainable but respond best to positive, consistent methods. Early socialization builds confidence and ensures a well-mannered adult.

1. Start early: expose puppies to people, pets, places, and noises.
2. Use positive reinforcement: treats, praise, and play-based training work very well.
3. Teach recall and impulse control: their alert nature means they may bark or react unless taught boundaries.
4. Short sessions: keep lessons fun and varied to match their attention span.
5. Enroll in classes: puppy classes or obedience groups help socialize and structure learning.

Exercise and mental stimulation

Keeshonds have moderate exercise needs: daily walks and play keep them happy, plus mental challenges to prevent boredom.

• Daily walks and play — about 30–60 minutes depending on age and energy
• Mental enrichment: puzzle toys, training games, and basic obedience
• Off-leash play in a secure area is enjoyable but recall training is important
• They enjoy agility, rally, and trick work as fun outlets for energy and intelligence

Living situation: adaptable and companionable

Keeshonds adapt well to apartments or houses as long as they get daily interaction and exercise. They thrive as true companion dogs and do not like long periods of isolation.

• Suitable for apartments with sufficient daily walks and play
• Prefer to be part of family life — enjoy being indoors with people
• Good with children and most other pets when socialized early
• Not ideal for owners who are away for very long periods regularly

Health and lifespan

Keeshonds are generally healthy but have some conditions to watch for, like many breeds.

• Hip dysplasia
• Patellar luxation
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and other eye conditions
• Hypothyroidism and certain skin allergies in some lines
• Occasional cardiac concerns in rare lines
• Average lifespan: about 12–15 years

Tips: choose a reputable breeder who screens hips and eyes, keep the dog at a healthy weight, maintain dental care, and schedule regular veterinary checkups.

Grooming and daily care

• Brush several times a week to prevent mats and reduce loose undercoat — more frequent during seasonal shedding
• Expect heavy seasonal "blowouts" — increased grooming and de-shedding during those periods
• Bath as needed and dry thoroughly to protect the undercoat
• Trim nails regularly, clean ears, and brush teeth several times weekly
• Keep the coat trimmed around sanitary areas for hygiene

Feeding and nutrition

Feed a balanced diet appropriate to life stage and activity level and monitor portions to prevent excess weight.

• Puppies: feed a high-quality puppy formula with controlled calories for steady growth
• Adults: high-quality adult dog food, portioned to maintain lean body condition
• Divide daily food into 1–2 meals for adults; puppies need more frequent feedings
• Discuss supplements or special diets with your veterinarian if health issues arise

Choosing a Keeshond puppy or adult

Careful selection helps ensure a healthy, well-tempered companion.

• Reputable breeder: health testing (hips, eyes), socialized puppies, transparent practices
• Rescue: Keeshond rescues and general rescues sometimes have adults in need of homes
• Meet the dog: evaluate temperament and energy level to match your household
• Ask about socialization: how puppies were exposed to people, children, and other animals

Working roles and activities

While primarily companion dogs today, Keeshonds excel in activities that engage their minds and bodies.

• Companion and family pet — their primary role
• Obedience, rally, and agility at suitable levels
• Therapy and visiting work for well-tempered individuals
• Trick training and performance (they’re quick learners)

Responsible ownership & legal notes

Practice responsible care, socialization, and training to ensure a well-adjusted pet and good public behavior.

• Keep vaccinations and microchip identification current
• Supervise interactions with very young children until both dog and child are comfortable
• Manage barking through training to avoid nuisance issues
• Consider pet insurance for unexpected veterinary costs

Quick FAQ

Are Keeshonds good with children?

Yes — they are typically affectionate and patient with children, though respectful handling and supervision are always important.

Do they shed a lot?

They shed seasonally and have a heavy undercoat; regular brushing helps manage loose hair.

Are Keeshonds easy to train?

Generally yes — they are intelligent and eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement.

Can they be apartment dogs?

Yes — they adapt well to apartment living if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Puppy checklist

• Appropriate-sized crate and a comfortable bed
• High-quality puppy food suitable for medium breeds
• Sturdy leash, collar or harness, and ID tag
• Grooming kit: slicker brush, de-shedding tool, comb, and nail trimmers
• Secure, puppy-proofed area and daily socialization plan
• Vet plan: vaccinations, microchip, deworming schedule, and early health screens
• Training plan including socialization, recall, and basic obedience
• Interactive toys and puzzle feeders for mental stimulation