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    Non-Sporting Group

    Keeshond

    The 'smiling Dutchman' — a medium spitz breed and Holland's national dog, famous for the distinctive 'spectacles' marking around the eyes. Keeshonds are friendly, outgoing and devoted family dogs. They need 60 minutes of daily exercise and brush a heavy double coat that sheds prodigiously twice a year.

    Keeshond with thick silver-and-black ruffed coat sitting on a green lawn at golden hour

    Quick Facts

    Origin
    Netherlands, 1700s
    Height (M / F)
    18 / 17 in
    Weight (M / F)
    35–45 / 35–45 lb
    Lifespan
    12–15 years
    Coat
    Thick double coat — silver and black with 'spectacles' around eyes
    Shedding
    high
    Hypoallergenic
    No
    Energy
    ●●●○○ (3/5)
    Trainability
    ●●●●○ (4/5)
    Kid-friendly
    ●●●●● (5/5)
    Apartment OK
    Yes
    Daily exercise
    45–75 min

    History & Origin

    The Dutch barge dog of the 18th century, named after Dutch patriot Cornelis (Kees) de Gyselaer. Symbol of the Patriot political party. Nearly extinct after political shifts; revived in the 20th century. AKC recognition in 1930.

    Temperament & Personality

    Friendly, outgoing, affectionate. Excellent family dog. Vocal alert barker.

    Health Watchouts

    Top conditions reported by AKC parent clubs, OFA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. Discuss screening with your vet — especially before breeding or insuring.

    Hip dysplasia

    ~7% (OFA)

    Joint malformation.

    Screening: OFA hips

    Primary hyperparathyroidism

    Notable in this breed

    Excess parathyroid hormone.

    Screening: DNA test (Cornell)

    Patellar luxation

    Notable

    Kneecap dislocation.

    Screening: Vet orthopedic exam

    Epilepsy

    Occasional

    Inherited seizures.

    Screening: Pedigree review

    Heart defects (PDA, tetralogy)

    Reported

    Congenital heart issues.

    Screening: Cardiac auscultation at puppy exam

    Exercise Needs

    45–75 minutes daily — walks, play, and dog sports.

    • Daily walks
    • Agility
    • Trick training
    • Therapy work
    • Yard play
    Puppies: Standard puppy rules.
    Seniors: Maintain walks; weight management.

    Nutrition

    Daily calories: Adult: 700–1,000 kcal.

    Two meals daily.

    Common allergens to watch: Chicken, Wheat.

    ⚠ Coat hides weight; check by feel.

    Entertainment & Enrichment

    Smart, social, eager to please.

    • Agility
    • Trick training
    • Therapy
    • Puzzle feeders
    • Doggy play

    Grooming & Coat Care

    Brush 2–3× weekly; daily during heavy seasonal coat blows. Bathe every 6–8 weeks. Never shave.

    Training

    Trainable and eager. Positive reinforcement. Address barking early.

    Cost of Ownership

    Lifetime cost depends on size, lifespan, and health risks. Try our Lifetime Cost Calculator →

    Cost band for Keeshond: medium.

    How insurance, vet care & grooming connect for the Keeshond

    These three costs move together. The Keeshond’s coat, energy, and breed-specific health watchouts shape each one — here’s how they line up.

    Insurance band

    Moderate

    Multiple breed-specific health watchouts

    Vet service load

    Above average

    Heavy shedding correlates with skin/derm visits

    Grooming demand

    High

    Double coat sheds seasonally — frequent brushing

    Hands-on care is the headline — frequent grooming and vet touchpoints, with mid-band insurance.

    Estimated monthly spend (typical adult)

    Insurance

    $60

    Routine vet

    $50

    Grooming

    $75

    Combined estimate

    ~$185/mo(±20%, US averages)

    * Estimates derived from breed traits (coat, energy, health watchouts, lifespan). Actual costs vary by location, age, and provider.

    Living Situation Fit

    Apartment-friendly with daily exercise. Adapts well. Cool climates preferred.

    Choosing a Puppy

    OFA hips and patellas, cardiac, DNA test for primary hyperparathyroidism. Meet both parents.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are Keeshonds good family dogs?

    Excellent — they're affectionate, gentle with children and adapt well to family life. They thrive on being included in everything.

    Do Keeshonds shed a lot?

    Yes — heavy seasonal shedding twice yearly with constant moderate shedding year-round. Daily brushing during 'coat blows.'

    Do Keeshonds bark a lot?

    They're vocal alert barkers — bred as watchdogs on Dutch canal barges. Training a 'quiet' cue from puppyhood helps.

    Related breeds

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    Norwegian Elkhound

    Norway's national dog — an ancient spitz hunting hound used to track moose ('elk' in Europe) and bear. Elkhounds are bold, friendly, and tireless workers with a thick double coat suited for cold climates. They need 60 minutes of daily exercise and shed prodigiously twice a year.

    Reviewed by PetHelpAnswers Editorial Team

    This profile is shared for informational and educational purposes only. Individual dogs vary — always consult a licensed veterinarian for medical guidance.