Keeshond
Also known as Wolfspitz, and Spitz-loup in French
- Height at the withers
- 43 to 55 cm
- Weight
- 15 to 20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12 to 15 years
- Daily activity
- 60 minutes
- Origin
- Germany
- FCI group
- 5 · Spitz and primitive types
Who is it for?
Ideal for
- a family with young children
- apartment living, with regular outings
- a first dog
- living with a cat
Less suited to
- long absences: it struggles when left alone
- allergy sufferers: it sheds a lot
- noise-sensitive neighbors: it likes to bark
- intense heat: be careful in summer
Overview
A compact, medium-sized spitz with a plush, silver-gray double coat, a fox-like face, the trademark “spectacles” markings around the eyes and a plumed tail curled over the back.
History and origins
A variety of the German Spitz, the Wolfspitz became the bargemen’s dog in the Netherlands, kept on board the Rhine barges. In the 18th century it served as the emblem of the Patriot party, led by Cornelis (Kees) de Gyselaer, hence its name, Keeshond. The FCI assigns it to Germany.
Health
Life expectancy is 12 to 15 years, and the breed is hardy. The most common health problems in the breed:
- Primary hyperparathyroidism (common in the breed)
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Hypothyroidism
- Epilepsy
Choose a breeder who has the parents health-screened for this breed, and ask to see the results.
Coat and care
Medium-length double coat. Heavy shedding, high coat care.
All ratings
Rated from 1 to 5, comparable across breeds. Green marks a strength for most households, orange something to plan for.
Lifestyle
- Energy
- Moderate, 3 out of 5
- Apartment
- Good, 4 out of 5
- Home alone
- Poorly, 2 out of 5
Family and sociability
- With children
- Excellent, 5 out of 5
- With other dogs
- Good, 4 out of 5
- With cats
- Good, 4 out of 5
- With strangers
- Open, 4 out of 5
Training and temperament
- Ease of training
- Easy, 4 out of 5
- For a first-time owner
- Good fit, 4 out of 5
- Guarding instinct
- Moderate, 3 out of 5
- Prey drive
- Low, 2 out of 5
- Tendency to roam
- Low, 2 out of 5
Care and neighbors
- Coat care
- High, 4 out of 5
- Shedding
- Heavy, 4 out of 5
- Drooling
- Never, 1 out of 5
- Barking
- Frequent, 4 out of 5
Climate and health
- Heat tolerance
- Low, 2 out of 5
- Cold tolerance
- Excellent, 5 out of 5
- Hardiness
- Good, 4 out of 5
In our lists
Keeshond FAQ
How big does the Keeshond get?
The Keeshond stands 43 to 55 cm at the withers and weighs 15 to 20 kg. It is a medium-sized dog.
Does the Keeshond shed a lot?
It sheds heavily and its coat needs a lot of care. Plan on brushing several times a week, and more during the spring and fall shedding seasons. Its coat needs regular grooming, sometimes by a professional.
Can the Keeshond live in an apartment?
Yes, if it goes out several times a day: it adapts well to a home without a yard. Mind the neighbors: it barks readily.
How much exercise does the Keeshond need each day?
Allow about 60 minutes of activity a day: its energy is moderate.
Is the Keeshond good with children?
Yes: patient and gentle, it is an excellent family dog, even with young children. Never leave a young child alone with a dog, whatever the breed.
How long does the Keeshond live?
Life expectancy is 12 to 15 years, and the breed is hardy. The main health problems to watch for are primary hyperparathyroidism and hip dysplasia.
