
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Families with kids
- Cold climates
- First-time owners
Watch out for
- Heavy seasonal shedding
- Barks to alert
- Doesn't like being left alone
Daily care
Exercise: About 45 minutes a day.
Grooming: Brush a couple of times a week; daily during shedding.
Cold weather: Thick double coat loves the cold.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Keeshond
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- FoodMedium breed dog food
Formulas made for medium breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate36-inch dog crate
A 36" crate fits most adult Keeshonds (up to about 45 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingDeshedding brush
Keeshonds shed a lot; an undercoat rake or deshedding tool cuts down on loose hair.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Keeshond near you
We're building a list of trusted Keeshond rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Keeshond page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Keeshond rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Keeshond is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
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