Keeshonden typically stop growing in height between 12 and 18 months of age. However, they might continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are about two years old.

The Keeshond was originally bred to be a watchdog on small boats and barges traveling the canals and rivers of the Netherlands in the 18th century. Keeshonden (the plural of Keeshonds) were also valued as family companions. Their friendly and affectionate nature made them popular pets among the Dutch people.

The Keeshond is from the Netherlands. This breed is closely associated with Dutch culture and history, especially during the late 18th century when it became a symbol of the Dutch Patriot movement. The breed’s name is derived from “Kees,” a common nickname for Cornelis, which was linked to one of the Patriot leaders, Kees de Gyselaer.

Keeshonden typically live for about 12 to 15 years. This lifespan can vary depending on genetics, diet, exercise, and overall care.

The word “Keeshond” is pronounced as “KAYSS-hawnd.” To break it down, “Kees” sounds like “case” (rhymes with “ace”), and “hond” sounds like “hawnd’ (rhymes with “fond”).

No, the Keeshond is not rare, but it is not among the most common dog breeds either. In the United States, the Keeshond is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and is relatively well-known among dog enthusiasts. However, they are not as commonly seen as more popular breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or German Shepherd Dogs.

Yes, Keeshond dogs bark to alert their pet parents to strangers or unusual sounds. They can also be prone to barking when left alone for too long, as they prefer to be with their human companions. Each Keeshond has their own tendencies when it comes to barking, and some might naturally be more vocal than others. Like many breeds, Keeshonden might bark more if they are bored or not sufficiently exercised. Providing them with physical exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce their tendency to bark out of boredom. Teaching them when it’s appropriate to bark and providing positive reinforcement for quiet behavior can be effective.

Yes, Keeshonden are good family dogs. They are good-natured, affectionate, devoted dogs who prefer to be around their humans as much as possible. Keeshonden are playful and lively, which can make them enjoyable companions for families, especially for active households that can provide them with exercise and mental stimulation.

Yes, most Keeshonden are good with cats, but their compatibility often depends on individual personalities and early socialization. Introducing a Keeshond to cats from a young age can help them learn to coexist peacefully. Proper supervision and positive interactions during this period can establish a harmonious relationship.

Like many dogs, Keeshonden have a natural prey drive, and this instinct might lead some to chase smaller animals, including cats. However, training your Keeshond to understand and respect boundaries with the cats, as well as basic obedience commands, can help prevent conflicts and promote positive interactions.

No, Keeshonden are not hard to train, but they need the right approach. Keeshonden are intelligent and can learn behaviors relatively quickly. However, like many spitz-type breeds, Keeshonden can have an independent streak, so they might choose to do things their own way or test boundaries. Keeshonden are sensitive dogs, and they respond best to gentle, positive reinforcement methods. Harsh or heavy-handed training techniques can be counterproductive.

Yes, most Keeshond dogs are good with other dogs. Friendly and sociable, Keeshonden often enjoy the company of other dogs. Early and ongoing socialization is crucial for Keeshonden to develop good social skills with other dogs. Exposing them to different dogs from a young age can help them learn appropriate behaviors and communication cues.

Yes, Keeshonden are good apartment dogs under certain conditions, depending on the pet parent’s commitment to meeting their needs. They are not excessively large, but they do need enough space to move around comfortably and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A spacious apartment or sufficient access to outdoor exercise areas (like parks) and opportunities for physical activity are beneficial.

Keeshonden can be vocal, especially when they are bored, lonely, or alerting their pet parents to something. This can be problematic in an apartment setting, but proper training and mental stimulation can help manage excessive barking.

Finally, Keeshonden are social dogs who thrive on companionship and interaction with their families. They won’t do well if left alone in an apartment (or any other home) without sufficient mental stimulation and attention.

Yes, Keeshond dogs are smart dogs. They belong to the spitz family of breeds, which are known for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities. They typically pick up new commands and behaviors relatively quickly when trained using positive reinforcement methods. Keeshonden are also adaptable dogs who readily learn to navigate new surroundings and respond appropriately to changing circumstances.

Yes, most Keeshonden like to cuddle. Keeshonden are friendly and sociable dogs that form strong bonds with their families. They often show their affection through cuddling, leaning against their people, or resting close by.

Yes, Keeshond dogs can swim. Keeshonden were historically used as watchdogs on boats, so they were often around water. Due to this background, many Keeshonden have a natural inclination and ability to swim. 

However, while some Keeshonden may take naturally to water, others might need encouragement. Early exposure to water, gradual introduction, and positive reinforcement can help build confidence. Always respect their comfort level; not all Keeshonden enjoy swimming, and some might prefer to wade rather than swim in deep water.

Yes, some Keeshond dogs are good at agility with proper training and encouragement. Keeshonden are intelligent dogs who can learn agility exercises and courses relatively quickly. They are natural athletes and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Agility requires teamwork between the dog and handler, and Keeshonden enjoy participating in activities with their pet parents, making them attentive and responsive partners on agility courses. They also enjoy the physical and mental stimulation that comes from training for agility.

Yes, Keeshonden are often considered Velcro dogs, a term that refers to dogs who are highly affectionate and form strong bonds with their people, often wanting to be close to them or even following them from room to room. Of course, the level of “Velcro” behavior can vary between individual dogs.

Yes, Keeshonden are good with kids when they are properly socialized and trained. Friendly and affectionate, Keeshonden typically have a steady temperament. They are gentle and patient, even in potentially chaotic situations with children. They also have a playful side that can match the energy and curiosity of children well. They enjoy interactive play and can be entertaining companions for kids. 

As with any breed, pet parents and parents of children should always supervise interactions between kids and dogs to keep both safe. Teaching children to respect any dog’s space and boundaries and training your dog in basic obedience can enhance their relationship and ensure safety.

Keeshonden are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Health problems Keeshonden are prone to include:

• Hip dysplasia: This is a common orthopedic condition in many dog breeds, including Keeshonden. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and lameness.

• Elbow dysplasia: Like hip dysplasia, this occurs when the elbow joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to joint instability and arthritis.

• Patellar luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap (patella) can dislocate or move out of its normal position, causing pain and lameness.

•  Addison’s Disease: Addison’s disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, is caused by a malfunction in the hormone production of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are small glands near the kidneys that are responsible for a variety of body functions, such as controlling salt, sugar, and water balance in the body. In Addison’s disease, the body is unable to create enough cortisol. Without cortisol, a dog cannot manage stress or digest food properly. Dogs with Addison's disease may suffer from weakness, an abnormally fast heart rate, depression, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and excessive thirst and urination. Your vet can test your pup to detect Addison’s disease and provide long-term medication.

• Cushing’s disease: This condition occurs when the body produces too much cortisol. It can be caused by an imbalance of the pituitary or adrenal gland, but in some cases, a dog will develop too much cortisol from other conditions. Common signs are excessive drinking and urination, increased hunger, hair loss, obesity, and bruising. If your Keeshond exhibits some of these symptoms, take her to the veterinarian. Cushing’s disease can be treated with surgery and medication.

• Diabetes mellitus: Keeshonden are prone to diabetes mellitus. Diabetes is a complex disease that prevents the body from properly regulating blood sugar levels. It is caused either by a lack of the hormone insulin or an inadequate response to insulin. Insulin allows the body to use glucose (sugar) for energy or to store for later use. Improper insulin levels will cause excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, cataracts, and weight loss. Though Diabetes is a serious illness, it can be controlled by diet and insulin medication.

• Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can lead to recurrent seizures. It can have a genetic component, meaning that some Keeshonden might inherit a predisposition to epilepsy.

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): This is a genetic eye disorder that can lead to progressive vision loss and blindness.

• Hypothyroidism: This is a thyroid malfunction that results in low hormone production and could cause obesity, low energy, and a brittle coat.

No, Keeshond dogs are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding occurring typically twice a year during seasonal changes. If allergies are a concern, spend time with adult Keeshonden to assess your sensitivity to the dog’s dander and fur before bringing one home.

No, while Keeshond dogs can have seizures, they are not specifically known for a high incidence of seizures compared to some other breeds. Seizures can be caused by epilepsy, or by other factors such as head trauma, toxins, metabolic disorders, or infections. It’s important for a veterinarian to evaluate the dog to determine the underlying cause if seizures occur.