General Description: Compact and muscular dog with beautiful weather resistant coat Height: 33 - 41cm Weight: 23 - 29kg Colour: White undercoat, with black or grey outer coat Utility group Temperament The Keeshond is a very devoted, friendly and intelligent little breed. This reliable dog is easy to care for and extremely loyal to their owners. They are very intelligent and respond to training and obedience. They are natural watchdogs and will alert their master quickly at the slightest unusual noise or movement. The Keeshond is an excellent children’s companion and is generally good with other dogs and family pets if they are well socialised as puppies. The breed likes to bark and should be taught from an early age that excessive noise is not permitted. They should be trained to stop barking after the initial warning bark. Exercise Although the breed will adapt to their owner’s routine, it is advised to regularly walk the Keeshond to keep them in top shape. Only let this breed run free in a safe and secure location. Grooming A daily groom with a firm bristle brush is recommended. The Keeshond’s coat can become matted if not groomed regularly enough. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Health The Keeshond is generally of very good health but can suffer from eye disease, hip dysplasia and heart problems. Life Expectancy 12 – 15 years History The Keeshond (also known as the Wolf Spitz) originated in the arctic and was known as "a dog of the people". It is thought to share genetic links with the Samoyed, Pomeranian, Elkhound, and Chow Chow. The breed was well known in the Netherlands by the 18th century and was commonly used as a river boat watch dog and protector. The Keeshond came close to extinction as a result of political upheaval in the Netherlands during the late 19th century, but luckily for the Keeshond, the breed was restored in 1920. Today, the Keeshond is mainly used as a companion dog and is recognised in all major dog clubs around the world. The breed remains the national dog of the Netherlands.