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Keeshond
The Keeshond (pronounced
"kayshond") is a Dutch breed that has become popular
throughout the world as a wonderful pet and watch-dog.
History:
The Keeshond is a Dutch breed
that is a descendant of the German Wolfspitz, with some other
unknown Dutch breeds mixed in. They were traditionally used as
guards and companions on the Dutch canal boats. When they were
first brought to England in the 1800s, they were unkindly
called "overweight Pomeranians," but they eventually became
known as Dutch Barge Dogs. It is likely that the ancestor of
the Keeshond came to Europe with ancient Nordic voyagers
around the sixteenth century. There is debate over the origin
of the name Keeshond. Some say that it is from a popular Dutch
name, Jan Kees, and others say that it stems from the Dutch
patriotic leader Kees de Gyselaer, who owned a dog of this
breed.
Physical
characteristics:
The Keeshond's body is short
and compact. Height: 17 - 19 in (43 - 48 cm). Weight: around
55 - 66 lb (25 - 30 kg). The Keeshond is a small to medium dog
that has a profuse and beautiful silver-gray coat, especially
on the neck where it forms a dense ruff. The color on the head
is usually lighter and that around the eyes darker, giving it
the appearance of wearing spectacles. The small, triangular,
upright ears and dark eyes make it seem to be smiling, and it
has the nickname of the "smiling Dutchman."
Behavior:
These attractive dogs are
capable of becoming wonderful companions. Most Keeshonds are
very independent dogs with strong personalities. It is wise to
act assertively towards them when they are young, as they have
the potential for becoming quite bossy.
Their confident manner and air
of independence make them good watch-dogs. Although they are
only small to medium size, they also make reasonable guard
dogs for the house, as their tenacious spirit acts as a
deterrent to would-be intruders. Keeshonds usually get along
well with other dogs, but if two females are kept together,
one must be allowed to dominate the other.
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