Akc Keeshond: Everything You Need to Know

The Akc Keeshond is a breed of dog that originated in the Netherlands, specifically in the 18th century.

They were originally bred to be working dogs, helping to protect the family and the home.

Their thick double coat is one of their most distinctive features, and it requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

The Akc Keeshond is a relatively small breed, weighing between 35 and 45 pounds and standing between 17 and 20 inches tall at the shoulder.

They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them a great addition to families with children.

Their short stature and sturdy build make them well-suited for apartment living, but they do require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Their intelligence and trainability make them a popular breed among first-time dog owners and experienced handlers alike.

Keeshonds are generally a very healthy breed, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and Epilepsy in animals are conditions that have been known to occur in Keeshonds.

To ensure you're getting a healthy puppy, it's essential to check the health testing available on both parents. The Orthopaedic Foundation of Animals (OFA) health site is a great resource to check for inherited problems.

Keeshonds typically live for around 12 years, with some living up to 14-15 years. However, it's crucial to work with a responsible breeder who has tested and certified their parents free from inherited health issues.

A different take: Keeshond Health Issues

Keeshonden are generally a very healthy breed, with a median lifespan of 12 years 2 months, according to a UK Kennel Club survey. However, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, Epilepsy, Cushing's syndrome, diabetes, primary hyperparathyroidism, and hypothyroidism have been known to occur in Keeshonden. These conditions can be inherited, so it's essential to check the health testing available on both parents.

Von Willebrand's disease is rare in Keeshonden, but it's still a possibility. An accurate test for primary hyperparathyroidism has been developed at Cornell University.

To ensure you're getting a healthy Keeshond puppy, make sure the parents have been tested and certified free from inherited problems. You can check the Orthopaedic Foundation of Animals (OFA) health site at www.offa.org for more information.

Here are some common health issues to look out for in Keeshonds:

Additionally, Keeshonds may be prone to Cataracts and Allergies.

When choosing a food for your Keeshond, look for premium, high-quality dry dog food that doesn't contain artificial ingredients.

The first ingredient listed should be high-quality protein, such as fish, beef, or chicken.

It's essential not to free-feed your Keeshond, as this can lead to obesity.

Aim to feed your Keeshond 1-2 cups daily, divided into morning and evening feedings.

For a puppy, adult, or senior Keeshond, ensure the food is age-appropriate and follow the feeding guidelines on the package.

Consider making homemade meals, but consult your vet beforehand to ensure all nutritional needs are being met.

Dogs require certain vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in their diet, and if you make meals yourself, you'll likely need to add supplements under your vet's supervision.

Grooming is an essential part of a Keeshond's health and care routine.

Regular brushing is crucial to remove dead hair and keep the coat in good shape. Brushing the coat with a pin brush twice a week is a must.

The hair around the feet and paw pads will need trimming as needed. This will prevent matting and keep your Keeshond comfortable.

You can bathe your Keeshond every 4–6 weeks, or if you prefer, have a professional groomer do it for you. Bathing regularly will keep their coat clean and shiny.

Brushing your Keeshond's teeth several times a week is a good habit to get into. Use dog-safe toothpaste to keep their teeth clean and healthy.

Checking the ears regularly is also important. You'll need to clean them as needed with a gentle dog ear cleanser to prevent infections.

Trimming the nails once a month or as needed will keep your Keeshond's nails from getting too long. This will prevent discomfort and potential health issues.

Keeshonden are known for their loving temperaments and loyalty to their owners. They thrive on human companionship and are eager to please.

Keeshonden are intelligent dogs, making training a breeze. They are alert, curious, and full of fun with quirky personalities.

If left alone for long periods, Keeshonden may bark excessively. This is a common issue, but with proper training and attention, they can learn to manage their separation anxiety.

Keeshonden yearn to be a part of your family and make loving companions. They are well-mannered dogs who enjoy being around people.

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The AKC Keeshond is a relatively low-maintenance breed.

They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their thick coat.

A daily brushing is recommended to keep their coat in good condition.

Their thick coat also sheds heavily, so be prepared for regular vacuuming.

They are generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-15 years.

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to maintain their overall health.

Their small size makes them a great companion for apartment living.

The AKC Keeshond is a medium-sized dog with a thick, double coat that sheds heavily. They typically weigh between 40 and 65 pounds.

Their original purpose was to guard barges on the canals of the Netherlands, where they were bred to be vigilant and alert.

The Keeshond is an ancient breed established in Holland during the 17th and 18th centuries.

They were commonly seen on barges traveling up and down the Netherlands' canals and rivers, earning them the nickname Dutch Barge Dog.

A Dutchman named Cornelis 'Kees' de Gyselaar was a key figure in the breed's history, leading a rebellion in 18th-century Holland and being known as the Dutch patriot.

The breed was named Keeshond, with "Kees" referring to de Gyselaar and "hond" meaning "dog" in Dutch.

Unfortunately, the rebellion failed, and the breed's popularity decreased as owners didn't want to be associated with the unsuccessful movement.

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If you're looking to get your AKC Keeshond involved in dog sports, there are several options to consider. You can start by introducing them to dog sports, which is a great way to build their confidence and skills.

Canine partners are a great resource for mixed breed dogs like the Keeshond, and enrolling them can be a wonderful way to socialize and train your dog.

If you're unsure about the different dog sports out there, don't worry - there are plenty of titles and abbreviations to learn. But to get started, it's essential to understand what each sport entails and which one might be the best fit for your Keeshond.

To determine which sport is right for your dog, consider their breed, age, and energy level. For example, a high-energy breed like the Keeshond might thrive in a high-energy sport like agility.

To get started in dog training, you can begin with basic obedience commands and gradually build up to more complex skills. Virtual dog sports and events are also a great way to participate in dog sports from the comfort of your own home.

Here are some dog sports to consider for your AKC Keeshond: