About the Keeshond
The Keeshond is a medium-sized spitz breed from the Netherlands, historically known as the Dutch Barge Dog for its role as a watchdog and companion on canal boats. Descended from Arctic breeds like the Samoyed and Norwegian Elkhound, it features a luxurious silver and black double coat with a thick ruff, a tightly curled plumed tail, and a foxlike face distinguished by characteristic "spectacles"—dark markings around the eyes that create an expressive, intelligent appearance . Renowned for its cheerful "smiling" expression, the Keeshond was the symbol of the 18th-century Dutch Patriot Party and nearly went extinct before being revived in the 1920s . Today, this affectionate and alert breed remains an excellent family companion, watchful without aggression, and bonds deeply with its humans, often described as a "velcro dog" for its desire to stay close to its owners
Breed Characteristics
16.00 - 20.00 kg
43.00 - 48.00 cm
12-15 years
Netherlands
Breed Traits & Ratings
Additional Information
Bred For
Watchdog and companion on Dutch barges; ratter and vermin deterrent on boats and farms
Temperament
Friendly, intelligent, alert, affectionate, playful, outgoing, loyal, eager to please, cheerful, vocal
