THE KEESHOND

The Keeshond is a medium-sized dog with a plush, two-layer coat of silver and black fur with a ruff and a curled tail. This outstandingly beautiful breed has been known in Europe for centuries. The Keeshond was previously known as the Dutch Barge Dog, as it was frequently seen on the barges travelling the canals and rivers of Holland. The Keeshond, pronounced "Case-hond", was named after the 18th-century Dutch Patriot, Cornelis (Kees) de Gyselaerwhich and the Dutch word for dog (hond). There is some debate as to it's origins as the breed was developed in England from imports obtained in both Holland and Germany.

The Kesshond is a medium sized dog, growing to a height of 46 cm and weighing about 18 kg. The Keeshond has a dense double coat with a thick ruff around the neck which requires regular weekly brushing, usually with a slicker brush. The Keeshond coat sheds dirt and is not prone to doggy odour as such bathing is rarely needed. Keeshonden should be a mixture of grey and black and some white as well. The undercoat should be very pale grey or cream. The hair of the outer coat is black tipped. The plume of the tail should be very light grey when curled on back and the tip of the tail should be black. Legs and feet should be cream and ears should be very dark—almost black.

The Keeshond makes an excellent family dog, preferring human companionship wherever possible and love children. They are very playful, with quick reflexes and strong jumping ability an generally get along well with other dogs. They are eager to please and quick learners which make them excellent agility and obedience dogs. Keeshonden are very intuitive and empathetic and are often used as comfort dogs. They are known by their loud, distinctive bark and make excellent watch dogs quickly raising the alarm. Keeshonden can become nuisance barkers if left alone or in the yard.

Keeshonden are generally a very healthy breed and have a lifespan of 12-15 years.