Keeshond mixes are generally a low-maintenance breed, requiring short daily walks and playtime.
They thrive on regular exercise, but their energy levels can vary depending on their individual temperament.
Keeshond mixes are intelligent and trainable, but they can be stubborn at times, making consistency and positive reinforcement key in their training.
Consistency is key when training a Keeshond mix, as they can become bored or distracted if the training sessions are too long or repetitive.
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Keeshond Mix Basics
The Pom-Kee is a compact breed, making it a great option for apartment living or a house without a yard.
They are very adaptable and also make great pets for first-time owners, which is a big plus for those who are new to dog parenthood.
Since both the Keeshond and the Pomeranian have fluffy coats, the Pom-Kee also is fluffy, so if you love the fluffy dog look, this breed is one you definitely should consider.
Pomeranians come in a wide variety of colors, and as a result, so does the Pom-Kee, which means there truly is a color for anyone's tastes!
For your interest: Pomeranian and Husky Mix Puppies
Dog Care
Keeshond mixes are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise. They only need a little time spent in exercise or training.
Their grooming needs are moderate. You should brush them at least twice per week to remove debris, mats, loose hair, and tangles from their coat.
Bathing should be done as needed, whether it's once per week, once a month, or once per quarter based on their activities. Keep an eye out for their toenails and trim them when needed, unless they're keeping at bay with their exercise.
Checking their ears is an important part of their grooming routine. Clean them using a solution made for cleaning dogs' ears and cotton.
Regular dental cleanings and exams, along with brushing their teeth twice per week, will help reduce tooth loss and periodontal disease. One thing you'll love about Keeshond mixes is that they don't drool a lot or have a doggy odor.
Consider reading: Keeshond Grooming
Training and Diet
Keeshond mixes are intelligent dogs that thrive on training and structure. They can be trained with positive reinforcement methods, which will yield great results.
Keeshond mixes are prone to separation anxiety, so it's essential to work on alone time from an early age. This will help them feel more comfortable when you're away.
You'll need to work on basic commands like sit and stay, as well as proper leash walking manners. Early socialization is also crucial, so take your Keeshond mix on walks and introduce them to new people and situations.
Good quality dog food designed for their age is a must for your Keeshond mix. Their veterinarian can help you determine the exact type and amount of food they need, taking into account their metabolism, age, and energy levels.
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Training
Training is a crucial part of owning a dog, and it's especially true for breeds like the Keeshond and Pomeranian Keeshond Mix. These dogs are intelligent and curious, making them relatively easy to train.
Keeshonden, in particular, are highly intelligent and easy to train, but they do require positive reinforcement training to tap into their gentle and sensitive personality. They thrive on attention and praise, so be sure to reward good behavior.
Pom Kees, on the other hand, are also intelligent and can be trained using positive methods of training. Positive reinforcement will go a long way with this dog.
One key thing to remember when training a Keeshond is that they can struggle with separation anxiety. To combat this, it's essential to work on alone time by leaving for short periods frequently and praising them when they're quiet and well-behaved in your absence.
Here are some basic commands to focus on when training your Keeshond or Pom Kee:
- Basic commands like "sit" and "stay"
- Proper leash walking manners
- Skills specific to your home or family, such as behaving with small children or getting along with the cat
Remember, early socialization and training are critical for these breeds. Introduce your dog to many new people and situations, and consider enrolling them in puppy school to help them learn to play nicely with other puppies and meet other pup parents.
Diet
Your Keeshond will do well with good quality dog food designed for their age—senior, adult or puppy. Your veterinarian can help you nail down the exact type and amount of food your Keeshond needs.
How much each individual dog eats will depend on their metabolism, age and energy levels. Like any dog, Keeshonden can be prone to weight gain if not fed properly.
Account for any yummy dog treats your Keeshond gets during training sessions (or just because they’re adorable)—those count toward their daily caloric intake as well.
If you have a Keeshond with allergies or coat problems, you may need to feed a special diet.
Health
Keeshond mixes are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common problem that can cause lameness, pain, and arthritis in Keeshond mixes.
Hip dysplasia can be managed with weight management, joint supplements, laser therapy, acupuncture, pain medication, and in severe cases, surgery. Surgery is often a last resort, but it can be very effective in alleviating symptoms.
Elbow dysplasia is another joint issue that can affect Keeshond mixes, causing pain and lameness. Surgery is often recommended to correct the problem.
Keeshond mixes can also be prone to patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of its groove. This can cause pain and discomfort, and may require surgery to correct.
Heart issues can also be a problem in Keeshond mixes, particularly tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart defect that can cause symptoms such as a heart murmur, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Here are some common health issues that can affect Keeshond mixes, along with their symptoms and treatment options:
- Hip Dysplasia: lameness, pain, arthritis, weight management, joint supplements, laser therapy, acupuncture, pain medication, surgery
- Elbow Dysplasia: pain, lameness, surgery
- Patellar Luxation: pain, discomfort, joint supplements, pain medications, surgery
- Tetralogy of Fallot: heart murmur, weakness, shortness of breath, veterinary cardiologist, echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart)
- Hypothyroidism: dry skin, hair loss, weight gain, daily oral medication
- Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT): excessive parathyroid hormones, damage to kidneys, surgery to remove parathyroid glands
Pomeranian Ownership Essentials
Living with a Pomeranian Keeshond Mix requires a lot of attention and care, especially since they have a thick double coat that sheds heavily.
You'll need to brush your Pom Kee's coat daily to prevent matting and tangling, and regular grooming sessions will become a regular part of your routine.
They are generally good with children, but it's essential to socialize them well from an early age to ensure they get along with kids.
Pom Kees are intelligent and active dogs that need regular exercise, so be prepared to take them on daily walks and playtime sessions.
They can be prone to barking and howling, so it's crucial to teach them the "quiet" command and provide them with plenty of mental stimulation.
Pom Kees are generally good with other pets, but introducing them to new animals should be done slowly and under close supervision.
Their small size means they can be prone to health issues, so regular veterinary check-ups are a must to keep them healthy and happy.
Their thick coat also makes them sensitive to extreme temperatures, so they'll need to be protected from the cold in winter and the heat in summer.
Keeshond Mix Variations
Keeshond mix variations can be a delightful surprise, with each unique combination bringing its own set of characteristics. The Keeshond mix can result in a wide range of physical appearances, from the thick coat of a Pomeranian Keeshond mix to the leaner build of a German Shepherd Keeshond mix.
Some Keeshond mixes can inherit the friendly and outgoing personality of their parent breeds, while others may be more reserved and independent. The temperament of a Keeshond mix can be influenced by the characteristics of its parent breeds, such as the high energy level of a Siberian Husky Keeshond mix.
The size of a Keeshond mix can vary greatly, from the small stature of a Chihuahua Keeshond mix to the larger build of a Golden Retriever Keeshond mix.
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Neahond
The Neahond is a loving and protective family dog, often mistaken by its size. They have a medium-length coat that requires moderate grooming, depending on the coat length.
Their protective yet kind nature has made them popular companion animals. This mix of traits is a result of their ancestry, with the Neapolitan Mastiff used to protect temples in ancient Rome.
Their coats come in a variety of colors such as black, blue, brown, and brindle.
Elk-Kee
The Elk-Kee is a mix between the Keeshond and the Norwegian Elkhound. They're a great fit for those who want a dog that's well-suited for guarding and sports.
The Norwegian Elkhound was bred as a hunter, used for tracking animals like moose, elk, bears, and mountain lions. This makes them highly intelligent, but also a bit independent.
This independence can make them hard to train, so it's best suited for those with some experience with dogs. They require regular brushing to keep their coat looking its best.
They shed quite a bit, so be prepared to brush them three to four times a week. The reward is well worth the effort, though - the Elk-Kee is a beautiful breed.
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Top 5
The Keeshond mix is a unique and lovable breed, and here are the top 5 variations to know about.
The Keeshond Pomeranian mix, also known as a Pomkeesh, is a popular crossbreed that combines the small size of a Pomeranian with the fluffy coat of a Keeshond.
Keeshond mixes can be prone to shedding, especially during seasonal changes, so be prepared for regular grooming sessions.
The Keeshond Husky mix, also known as a Keeshky, is a high-energy breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Keeshond mixes can make great family pets, but it's essential to socialize them well to ensure they get along with children and other pets.
The Keeshond Beagle mix, also known as a Beeshond, is a friendly and curious breed that loves to explore its surroundings and sniff out new smells.
Keeshond mixes are generally intelligent and easy to train, but consistency and positive reinforcement are key to developing good habits and behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dog is similar to a Keeshond?
The Keeshond shares similarities with the Pomeranian in terms of their affectionate nature, double coats, and distinctive tail features. To learn more about these lively breeds and their differences, read on.
Sources
- Hip Dysplasia (petmd.com)
- Pom-Kee (Pomeranian & Keeshond Mix) Info, Pictures, ... (hepper.com)
- Top 5 Keeshond Mixes You Have to See! (With Pictures!) (thepetfaq.com)
- Dog of the Day: Keeshond Mix (dogsofsf.com)
- Keeshond Maltese Mix (maltesemaniac.com)
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