Keeshond Information & Dog Breed Facts
Collection of all the general dog breed info about Keeshond so you can get to know the breed more.
Group | Sled Dogs |
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Popularity Rank | 87 |
Reviews | 5 |
User Ratings | |
Compare the Keeshond With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion. | |
Origin | Germany Netherlands |
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Keeshond known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed. | Chien LoupDeutscher WolfsspitzKeesSmiling DutchmanWolfsspitzDutch Barge DogBarge Dog |
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Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Keeshond? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category. | Purebred |
Size Classification
What size category is a Keeshond? Learn how big the Keeshond breed typically grows. | Medium |
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Weight Statistics
How much does a Keeshond weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Keeshond breed. | 35-45 pounds (15-20 kg) |
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Keeshond? | 40 pounds (17.5 kg) |
Height
How tall is the Keeshond? Keeshond height: | Male: 17-19 inches (44-48 cm), Female: 16-18 inches (40-46 cm) |
Average Height
What is the average height of a Keeshond? | Male: 18 inches (46 cm), Female: 17 inches (43 cm) |
Price Range
How much does a Keeshond puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Keeshond costs. | $800-$1000 If you choose to purchase the Keeshond, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Keeshond for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Keeshond gets to a happy place. |
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Availability
How easy is it to get a Keeshond? How many Keeshond are there in the world? | Very frequent: The Keeshond is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed. Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems. So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision. |
Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Keeshond? Discover the Keeshond's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities. | Very smart: Keeshond is an excellent dog breed. You can teach them many tricks and commands. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in 5-15 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 85% of the time or better.
The Keeshond is one of the top breeds in the dog intelligence ranking. |
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Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Keeshond? Learn about the Keeshond's trainability and response to training methods. | Keeshond dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure. |
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Keeshond as a watchdog? Learn about the Keeshond's alertness and guarding instincts. | Keeshond dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Keeshond dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
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Territorial Protection
Is a Keeshond protective of its territory? Learn about the Keeshond's guarding instincts and behavior. | Keeshond dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation. |
Personality Traits
What personality does a Keeshond have? Learn about characteristic Keeshond temperament and behavior traits. | PlayfulAgileIntelligentObedientQuickBrightSturdy |
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Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Keeshond sensitivity: | Sensitive: Keeshond dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well. |
Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Keeshond a good family dog? | High: Keeshond dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness. |
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Chien Loup need? Keeshond social needs: | Keeshond dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone. |
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Keeshond to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Keeshond roam? | Keeshond dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine. |
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Keeshond have high prey drive? | Keeshond dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior. |
Barking Frequency
Does a Keeshond bark a lot? Learn about typical Keeshond vocalization patterns and triggers. | A lot: Keeshond is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.
The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense. |
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Playful Nature
How playful is a Keeshond? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Keeshond breed. | Average: Keeshonds, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed. |
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Keeshond live in an apartment? Learn about the Keeshond's suitability for apartment living. | It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Keeshond indoors. |
Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Keeshond to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Keeshond's flexibility to new situations. | Keeshond dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner. |
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Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Keeshond be left alone? Learn about the Keeshond's tolerance to solitude. | Keeshond dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work. |
Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Keeshond biting potential? Learn about the Keeshond's bite risk factors. | Low 🔽 The Keeshond has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.) |
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Mouthing Tendency
Is a Keeshond mouthy? Learn about the Keeshond's tendency to use mouth during play. | Keeshond dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Keeshond dogs need to be taught a good attitude. |
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Keeshond bite? Learn about the Keeshond's bite force measured in PSI. | Between 200 and 400 PSI ⏺ Keeshond bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Keeshond measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Keeshond is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Keeshond bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Keeshond bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Keeshond puppy not to bite from an early age.
The Keeshond, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained. However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for. In conclusion, while the Keeshond bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Keeshond can be a loyal and protective companion for your family. |
Average Lifespan
How long does a Keeshond live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Keeshond breed. | 12-14 years The average lifespan of Keeshond: 13 years |
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Climate Tolerance
How well does a Keeshond handle different weather? Learn about the Keeshond's climate adaptability. | Prefers cold weather The Keeshond can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months. |
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Keeshond? Discover typical conditions affecting the Keeshond breed. | The Keeshond is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly. |
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Keeshond need vet visits? Learn about the Keeshond's veterinary care requirements. | Average The Keeshond should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian. |
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Keeshond breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Keeshond breed? Most common health risks of Keeshond: | Hip Dysplasia Heart ProblemsSkin DiseasesKneecap dislocations |
Energy Rating
How energetic is a Keeshond? Understand daily activity needs of the Keeshond breed. | Keeshond dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you. |
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Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Keeshond need? How much exercise do Keeshond dogs require per day?
Do Keeshond dogs need a lot of exercises? | Keeshond dogs exercise need is minimal. If you live a slow life, this breed can be a good choice for you. |
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Keeshond breed need? | Keeshond dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you. |
Obesity Tendency
Is a Keeshond prone to weight gain? Learn about the Keeshond's obesity risks. | Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Keeshond's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.
If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Keeshond weight regularly. |
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Food Consumption
How much food does a Keeshond need daily? Learn about the Keeshond's feeding requirements. | 2 to 2.5 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. |
Allergy Friendliness
Is a Keeshond hypoallergenic? Learn about the Keeshond's suitability for allergy sufferers. | No Keeshond dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair. |
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Coat Colors
What colors does a Keeshond come in? Discover all possible Keeshond color variations. | BlackGray Cream Silver |
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Keeshond need? Learn about Keeshond coat maintenance requirements. | Advanced: The Keeshond requires a lot of grooming. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer can be helpful sometimes. Regular brushed dog's coat is less likely to shed. Ears and eyes should be cleaned often to avoid infections. Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Occasional dog nail trimming and dog baths are important.Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and to give your Keeshond a pleasant experience of a dog bath. If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Keeshond, search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment. Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby. |
Drooling Tendency
Does a Keeshond drool a lot? Learn about the Keeshond's drooling habits. | The Keeshond is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Keeshond could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Keeshond.
If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible. |
Stinkiness Rating
Does a Keeshond smell bad? Learn about the Keeshond's natural odor levels. | Medium ⏺ The Keeshond has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks. |
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Keeshond have? Learn about the Keeshond's fur characteristics. | FluffyDense |
Bathing Needs
How often does a Keeshond need baths? Learn about the Keeshond's bathing requirements. | 3-4 weeks More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.
Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean. |
Shedding Level
How much do Keeshond dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Chien Loup? Do Keeshond dogs shed a lot? | Keeshond dogs are heavy shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Be prepared for the daily vacuum cleaning. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type. |
Child Compatibility
Is a Keeshond good with children? Learn about the Keeshond's behavior around kids of different ages. | Keeshond dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children. |
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Pet Compatibility
How well does a Keeshond get along with other pets? Discover the Keeshond's compatibility with other animals. | Keeshond dogs are usually friendly towards other pets. |
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Keeshond temperament with other people: | Keeshond dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs. |
Cat Friendly
How well do Keeshond dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Keeshond breed live with a cat? | Keeshond dogs are cat-friendly dogs. |
Dog Friendly
Is Keeshond good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Keeshond dogs get along with other dogs? | Keeshond dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Keeshond can be a great choice. |
Good For First Time Owners
Is Keeshond breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Keeshond breed suitable for first-time owners? | Yes Keeshond dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality. |
Office Friendly
Are Keeshond dogs good office canines? Do Keeshond dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs? | No Keeshond is not the best dog breed for office environment. |
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Keeshond dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Chien Loup temperament with senior people? Are Keeshond dogs good for elderly owners? | Keeshonds are usually recommended for elderly people. |
Service Dog Capability
Can a Keeshond be a service dog? Learn about the Keeshond's service work potential. | Not really This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
Keeshond is not the best breed for service purposes. |
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Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Keeshond good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Keeshond's therapy work aptitude. | Not really This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.
Keeshond is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes. |
Scent Detection Ability
Is a Keeshond good at detection work? Learn about the Keeshond's scenting abilities. | Not really They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.
Keeshond is not the best breed for detection purposes. |
Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Keeshond do search and rescue? Learn about the Keeshond's SAR capabilities. | Yes This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.
The Keeshond breed is a good choice for SAR purposes. |
Maritime Work Ability
Is a Keeshond good on boats? Learn about the Keeshond's maritime capabilities. | Not really Keeshond breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo. Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats. |
Draft Work Capability
Can a Keeshond pull carts? Learn about the Keeshond's drafting abilities. | Not really A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.
Keeshond is not the best breed for drafting purposes. |
Military Service Background
Was a Keeshond used in military service? Learn about the Keeshond's military history. | Not really In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog. |
Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Keeshond usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes. | 3-8 puppies |
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Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Keeshond pregnant? Learn about the Keeshond's gestation period. | 60-64 days Reproductive cycle of the female Keeshond: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.
During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge. The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days. The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color. The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months. |
Breeding Frequency
How often can a Keeshond have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals. | Once a year. More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year. |
AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Keeshond in? Learn about the Keeshond's AKC classification. | Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930 as a Non-Sporting breed. |
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FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Keeshond in? Learn about the Keeshond's international classification. | Recognized by FCI in the Spitz and primitive types group, in the European Spitz section. |
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Keeshond? Learn about the Keeshond's official recognition. | American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Kennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel ClubAmerican Pet Registry, Inc. |
Keeshond Pros and Cons
- Intelligence Rating: Very smart: Keeshond is an excellent dog breed.
- Drooling Tendency: The Keeshond is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
- Watchdog Rating: Keeshond dogs are good watchdogs.
- Impulse to Wander or Roam: Keeshond dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
- Lifestyle Adaptability: Keeshond dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
- Child Compatibility: Keeshond dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
- Cat Friendly: Keeshond dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
- Dog Friendly: Keeshond dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
- Senior Citizens Friendly: Keeshonds are usually recommended for elderly people.
- Good For First Time Owners: Keeshond dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
- Search & Rescue Potential: This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
- Allergy Friendliness: Keeshond dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
- Grooming Requirements: Advanced: The Keeshond requires a lot of grooming.
- Shedding Level: Keeshond dogs are heavy shedders.
- Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Keeshond's weight, he can easily gain weight.
- Alone Time Tolerance: Keeshond dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
- Office Friendly: Keeshond is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Keeshond History
Introduction
The Keeshond is a medium-sized dog with a plus, two-layer coat of silver and black fur with a ruff and a curled tail. It was developed in Holland, and its closest relatives are the German spitzes such as the Large Spitz, Miniature Spitz, or Pomeranian.
Origins
The Keeshond's exact origin is unknown, but it is thought to have descended from ancient canine strains that produced other Spitz breeds.
The development of the breed is believed to have occurred in the 17th century in Holland, and paintings as well as the written word support this timeline and place.
Although at the time, the breed was known as the Wolfspitz in Germany, the Chien Loup in France, and the Lupini in Italy and it took years before the Keeshond would be known by the name we call it today.
By the 18th century, The Keeshond was used as a watchdog and companion on small boats called Rijinakens that cruised on the Rhine River, earning its nickname the “barge dog”.
Furthermore, a political insurrection led by Cornelis de Gyselaer, a Keeshond fancier and the leader of the Dutch rebellion, occurred in the 18th century in Holland.
His dog, known as Kees, became a symbol of the Dutch patriot when he was being represented in so many political pamphlets, caricatures, and handouts.
The breed was later given the name "Keeshond," with "Kees" standing for Gyzelaar and "hond" for a dog in Dutch. De Gyzelaar didn’t mind as he believed the breed reflected the Patriot party's strength, and he was likely pleased when the Keeshond became the party's official mascot.
Unfortunately for the breed, the rebellion against the House of Orange failed. It caused many Keeshond owners to abandon, or even worse, to destroy and kill their dogs out of fear that they would be identified as participants of the failed insurrection.
To make matters worse, riverboats were getting bigger, and the need for the Keeshond decreased. The breed might have gone extinct entirely if it weren’t for a few farmers, peasants, and river men who saved and preserved the dogs.
Recognition
In the 1920s, Baroness van Hardenbroek became involved in the effort to save the species, and it was considered a huge success.
Within ten years, the Keeshond had grown in popularity to the point that the Dutch Keeshond Club was formed. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1930, and it is now the national dog of Holland.
Overall, the breed is considered to be a very playful, thoughtful dog, who is eager to please and is a very quick learner. They love children and are excellent family dogs, preferring to be close to their humans whenever possible.
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Keeshond Comments, Reviews and Questions
- Luka videos
Mar 15, 2023, 6:20:14 PM:
1. Keeshond. They are the fluffin best dog
- London
Aug 6, 2021, 2:11:12 AM:
My Keeshaund is very smart, stubborn, and energetic. We love her so much. Great dog breed.
- Lili
Apr 11, 2021, 8:58:50 PM:
This profile is not very accurate an they were bread to live on barges so they would be good on boats. They are the best dogs
- Kees mom
Jan 20, 2021, 6:18:45 AM:
Best dog ever!
- Didi
Oct 9, 2020, 3:04:33 PM:
Fabulous companion. Affectionate and friendly yet stubborn and curious.