Keeshond
The Dutch barge dog, and the markings around the eyes are called spectacles, which the standard requires. It was the emblem of an eighteenth century party.
Photo by Pets Adviser from Brooklyn, USA, CC BY 2.0
Overview
The Keeshond is the Dutch barge dog, kept on canal boats as a watchdog and a companion, and it became a political symbol in the eighteenth century as the mascot of the Dutch Patriot faction, which is where the name comes from.
The distinctive feature is the spectacles: markings around the eyes with fine lines running outward that give the dog a permanently alert expression, and they are required by the standard.
Temperament
Friendly, outgoing and demonstrative. Keeshonden are excellent with children, sociable with strangers and other dogs, and they are among the most people oriented spitz breeds.
They are vocal, which is the barge dog inheritance, and it is the main practical consideration. They are intelligent and eager and they train easily. They are also intensely attached and prone to separation anxiety.
Care and grooming
A very thick double coat that needs brushing two or three times a week and daily during the two enormous moults. It should not be shaved. It is largely self cleaning and does not hold odour.
Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, epilepsy and primary hyperparathyroidism occur, and the last has a DNA test. Twelve to fifteen years.
Living and exercise
An hour a day plus play and training. They are moderate rather than high energy.
They want to be in the middle of family life and they do badly excluded from it. The barking is worth planning for in close housing.
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