About the Keeshond page

For more information on the Keeshond we offer a short list of internet links to clubs and websites dedicated to the betterment of dogs in general and Keeshonden in particular as well as the Canadian Keeshond Standard.

About the Keeshond

Extra Care For Puppies:
Special mention should be made concerning puppies from the age of six months to a year. At this time the new coat grows tremendously quickly and it can get ahead of you. At this age in particular matts form easily around the trousers, thighs and behind the ears if puppy "fuzz" has not been routinely brushed out. The silky fine hair behind the ears, under the armpits and on the belly, matts quickly and requires frequent combing. In the adult dog the hair is coarser and does not tangle as easily. Should a matt form it can be untangled by taking one pointed end of the scissors and picking at the edge of the matt until it gradually unravels, holding the matt firmly to prevent pulling on the dog. Avoid cutting hair away for it takes so long to grow back, leaving an unsightly bare area.

Mist the coat lightly with the spray bottle containing water and starting with your slicker, brushing is done beginning at the head. Part the coat into small sections and brush from the skin out and always toward the head. Work your way down the dog's back and sides an inch or so at a time. Feathering on the front legs is brushed out and down as are the trousers. Pay particular attention to the soft hair behind the ears and in the armpits, these areas tend to matt. Wherever the coat is especially dense as in the ruff, trousers and tail, carefully use your metal comb to fluff out the coat and remove loose hair. Use the flea comb to comb the hocks, ears and face. Carefully trim off any ragged fur on the hocks and the bottom of the feet. Round off hair on the foot. (It should be shaped like a cat's paw.) Finally, using your pin brush fluff the ruff up in a flare, spread the trousers to look like "pantaloons" and brush the tail up over the back toward the head. One shake and perfection!

The Keeshond is rela

tively easy to maintain in good condition because his coat texture insulates him from weather and most dirt. It seldom mats unless burrs or such are involved, and is free from any "doggy" odour. Bathing is rarely needed, however, regular grooming about every two weeks should be a routine to ensure a more beautiful and happier pet.

For all grooming, it is more comfortable for dog and owner to place him on a table, laying him gently on one side and then the other. He will quickly learn the routine and enjoy it, if care is taken not to hurt him while brushing.
Minimum tools required for keeping the Keeshond's coat in good condition; Pin Brush, slicker, wide-toothed metal comb, flea comb, nail clippers, scissors and a spray bottle.

The Keeshond is a friendly, bouncy, outgoing, highly intelligent family companion. They are full of mischief and have a unique sense of humour that can make living with them fun and at times challenging. Many Keeshond devotees find that one is just not enough and often have two or more. They are a housedog and are not happy when separated from their family. They are a fine watchdog and will bark enthusiastically when strangers come but quickly offer friendship when the newcomer is welcomed. They are non-aggressive and have a devoted and gentle nature and a special fondness for children that makes them a most attractive family dog. The Keeshond is a medium sized dog that adapts well to most family situations whether it be city or country living. They do need at least a moderate amount of exercise to keep fit and healthy. Males are approximately 18" at the shoulder and should weigh about 40 pounds and females are slightly smaller at 17" and 30 pounds.