Keeshond Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Keeshond is a friendly, plush-coated Dutch spitz with an expressive face marked by dark lines that look like spectacles. It was a barge dog in the Netherlands, and it remains a devoted, people-oriented companion.

Origins and appearance

The breed became associated with Dutch barge captains and, in the eighteenth century, with the Patriot political movement. Keeshonden are medium-sized and sturdy, with a thick double coat in silver gray and black, a lion-like ruff, a tail curled over the back and small, pointed ears. The face has a fox-like expression and dark spectacle markings.

Temperament

Keeshonden are affectionate, cheerful and gentle. They are very people-oriented and tend to follow their families around. They are good with children and other pets. They are alert and bark to announce visitors, but are friendly rather than aggressive. They are sensitive and dislike harsh handling or being left alone.

Exercise

They need about an hour of daily exercise, including walks and play. They enjoy agility, obedience, hiking and games. They like to be included in family outings. Use a leash or secure space.

Training

They are intelligent and eager to please. Use positive methods and short, varied sessions. Early socialization helps. Teach a quiet cue. They are usually easy to house train. See also how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The thick double coat needs brushing two or three times a week, and daily during seasonal shedding. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Primary hyperparathyroidism, a calcium-related condition
• Heart conditions, such as tetralogy of Fallot in some lines
• Skin problems, such as alopecia X
• Epilepsy. See seizures and epilepsy in dogs
• Obesity. See dog obesity risks

Living with a Keeshond

They suit homes and apartments with exercise. They need company and love family life. Expect fur and a friendly voice.

A typical day

A Keeshond enjoys a morning walk, some family time, a play or training session and an evening outing. They follow people from room to room and love to be part of things.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy and playful. Begin socialization, handling and training. Teach quiet cues early. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming tools, training and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well and enjoy company.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include leaving the dog alone for long, skipping grooming, shaving the coat and allowing barking to escalate.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip and heart testing, thyroid history and the parents' temperaments.

A Dutch companion with a long history

Because Keeshonden were bred to live and work alongside people on boats, they are used to close company, to sounds and to routine. Many do well in households with regular schedules and dislike chaos or unpredictability. Include the dog in daily life, and the breed's gentle, funny nature shines.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Keeshond suits owners who want an affectionate, medium-sized spitz and will groom regularly. It may not suit those wanting a guard dog or a quiet pet. For a smaller white spitz, see the American Eskimo Dog.

The takeaway

Keeshonden are friendly, plush and devoted, and they need grooming, company and gentle training.