The Keeshond or Spitz-wolf is a variety of the German Spitz breed, which also includes four other breeds and which the FCI groups together under the same standard while marking differences for each variety. The breeds included in this group are: the wolf-spitz or Keeshond, the large spitz, the medium spitz, the small spitz and the dwarf or Pomeranian spitz.
In this PlanetAnimal breed sheet, we are going to tell you specifically about the Keeshond. With the exception of size and coat color, all of these breeds are extremely similar.Although the FCI groups all these breeds into one and considers them to be of German origin, the Keeshond and Pomeranian are considered by other organizations to be breeds with their own standards. According to other canine societies, the Keeshond is of Dutch origin.
Origin
- Europe
- Germany
- Netherlands
FCI Nomenclature
- Group V
Physical Characteristics
- Proportional
Size
- Average
Height
- 45-55
Adult Weight
- 25-45
Life expectancy
- 12-14
Recommended physical activity
- Low
Character
- Society
- Very loyal
- Smart
- Active
Ideal for
- Apartment
- The guard
Recommended climate
- Temperate
Hair type
- Long
- Smooth
Origin of the Keeshond
" This breed, used as a companion dog since its beginnings, is considered to be of Dutch origin (Netherlands) where, in the 18th century, it was known as the people&39;s dog. She is descended from her parents the Chow Chow, the Elkhound, the Samoyed and the Pomeranian.They are called Keeshond because at the beginning of the French Revolution, a patriot named Gyselaer who owned a dog of this breed named it Kees and made it a symbol of the Dutch homeland."
Keeshonds were first introduced by Mrs. Wingfield-Digby to the UK, but they did not regain their former popularity until 1920 when they arrived in the US. So, in 1930, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Physical characteristics of the Keeshond
All German Spitz (Keeshond, large, medium, small and Pomeranian) have the same physical shape and therefore the same appearance. The only difference between these breeds is the size and, for some, the color, but all are beautiful dogs with exceptional coats.
The head of the Keeshond is medium in size and, seen from above, it is wedge-shaped and reminds us of a fox's head. The Stop may be pronounced, but it will never be abrupt.Its nose is round, small and black, except in brown dogs, where it is dark brown. His eyes are medium sized, elongated, oblique and dark. His ears are triangular, pointed, erect and high set.
Its body is as long as its height at the withers, so it has a rather square shape. His back, loins and croup are short and powerful. His chest is deep, while his abdomen is moderately tucked up. Its tail is of high insertion, of medium size and it carries it rolled up on the back. It is covered with abundant and dense hair.
" The Keeshond&39;s coat consists of two layers of hair. The undercoat is a short, dense and woolly coat. The outer coat consists of long, straight, parted hairs. Its head, ears, front of its legs and feet have short, dense and soft hair. His neck and shoulders are provided with a rich mane. The accepted color for the Keeshond or the Spitz-wolf is gray and its height at the withers is 49 ± 6 cm according to the FCI."
Keeshond Character
While there are size differences, all German Spitz, from Keeshond to Pomeranian, share the same basic temperament characteristics. This breed of dog is cheerful, alert, dynamic and very attached to its human family. Nevertheless, with strangers and strangers, she can be rather reserved, even very barky, which makes her an excellent watchdog.
If properly socialized from a young age, the Keeshond can tolerate unfamiliar dogs and strangers without issue, but problems can arise with other dogs of the same gender. They tend to get along very well with other pets in the household.
Even though they have been very well socialized, these dogs are generally not the best if you have small children, as they can react badly to instances where children play too roughly with them.On the other hand, they are very good companions for older children who know how to behave with them.
Keeshond Care
To be in good condition, the coat of all breeds of German Spitz should be brushed at least three times a week. During the shedding period, the coat should be brushed more frequently, daily.
Keeshonds are dynamic but can release their energy with a little exercise, daily walks and play. All adapt well to life in small apartments or houses, but it is best to have a small garden for larger breeds. All of these breeds, including the Keeshond, tolerate cold to temperate climates very well, but do not handle intense heat very well. Thanks to their protective coat, they can live outdoors, but it's best if they live indoors, as they need the company of their human family.
Keeshond Education
The main behavioral problem with German Spitz, and in this case the Keeshond, is excessive barking.
They are easy to train if you use positive reinforcement. Because of their dynamism, clicker training is a good educational alternative.
Keeshond He alth
Like the Keeshond, all breeds of German Spitz enjoy excellent he alth and they generally do not have too many incidences of canine diseases. However, the most common diseases in this breed group, with the exception of the Pomeranian, are: hip dysplasia, certain skin problems and epilepsy.
Pictures of Wolf Spitz or Keeshond
