The Keeshond (pronounced “Caze-hawnd”) originates from the Netherlands (Holland) and is best known as the “Dutch Barge Dog”.  Keeshonds came to prominence guarding the barges travelling up and down the canals of Holland, although they also became well-known as watchdogs on farms and the vineyards along the Rhine.  It is widely accepted that the name Keeshond originates from either Cornelius De Witt or Cornelius de Gyselaer (or both) who were 17^th & 18^th Century patriots.  The Keeshond was also the party mascot of the Dutch political party during the 18^th Century.

 

Keeshonds are loving, gentle and devoted dogs.  They can occasionally be stubborn, they learn quickly and make an outstanding family companion and watchdog suitable for both children and adults.  As a breed, they are extremely adaptable, readily responding to training of all kinds, whether it be for obedience work, guide dogs for the blind, tricks or just loving companions. 

 

Keeshonds are instinctively clean in their personal habits.  They have a dense, harsh, odourless coat that consists of two layers – a soft think undercoat and harsh outer guard hairs.  Both coats inhibit dirt from penetrating to the skin, meaning bathing is rarely needed (every 4 – 6 weeks).  In hot and humid weather when most Keeshonds loll in their personal dirt dugouts, or when they are ‘dropping’ their coat, some extra grooming (brushing) is required.

Our female Keeshonds live and sleep inside with us 100% of the time (by choice - theirs!).  Our males are kenneled overnight, and when we are at home, they are inside with us.  As they do not have a "doggy" smell, they make excellent indoor companions, and they are easily trained to 'do wee' and notify you of their need to go outside.  In hotter weather, all our Kees require is access to fresh water, and (if outside, shade).  This is despite living in a part of Australia in which the temperatures can, and do, reach 46° in summer.  The Keeshond instinctively knows where the coolest part of the house, or yard is - and often they are found sleeping on the cool times of the bathroom or toilet (or preferably, under the airconditioning vent!).

The average lifespan of the Keeshond is 10 – 14 years, and their average height is:

 

·         Dogs – 18 inches (45.7 cm)

·         Bitches – 17 inches (43.2 cm)

 

For more information on the Keeshond, particularly health and behavioural issues, refer to our Frequently Asked Questions page.

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