It’s late at night. You’re browsing through puppy pictures on the web, trying to decide on the perfect breed of dog to make your newest, furriest family member. You’ve seen Labs and Boxers, Dachshunds and Poodles, but suddenly, a fluffy pile of sparkly eyes and curly tail pops up on your screen. It’s a Keeshond, a breed originating from the Netherlands, known for their thick coats, bright eyes, and undying loyalty to their human counterparts. You’re smitten, but then a thought crosses your mind: is a Keeshond a difficult dog to own?
Now, let’s follow Alice’s rabbit down the hole, unlocking the mysteries of this exciting breed.
Loyal, affectionate, intelligent and energetic, the Keeshond is everything you could want in a canine companion. They are well known for their plush, silver and black coat, fox-like expression, and exuberant personality. There’s no doubt that they’re adorable, but what might surprise you is that owning a Keeshond isn’t as challenging as one might think.
Don’t be fooled by their luxurious coat. Yes, Keeshonds need grooming, but their double-layered coat is actually self-cleaning, much like a cat’s, and a brush twice a week keeps them looking their best. Unlike some other breeds, they’re not big droolers, and they don’t have a doggy odor. They shed twice a year, and while this may seem like a hassle, it actually only lasts for around three weeks. With a good brushing routine, shedding can be managed, making your life easier and ensuring your Keeshond has a beautiful, healthy coat.
Keeshonds are agreeable dogs, eager to please their owners. They are born with an instinct to socialize, and unlike some other breeds, they are amenable to training from a very young age. Thanks up their intuitive and intelligent nature, Keeshonds rapidly pick up and understand commands. They’re pretty much the wunderkind of the dog world! While they are high energy dogs, they will take as much or as little exercise as you’re prepared to give, meaning that they’re terrific partners whether you prefer hiking or sofa-cycling on a Sunday afternoon.
Sounds perfect, right?
However, no article would be complete without giving a balanced view. Like any breed, Keeshonds have their quirks. They don’t like to be left alone for long periods, and they’re talkative, yes, so keen in fact, that they have been dubbed the “Velcro dog” for their tendency to stick close to their favorite person. But don’t let the amourous attachment scare you off – this makes them exceptionally good companion dogs and they have a noteworthy reputation for being excellent with children and other pets.
Barking can be another issue. Keeshonds are incredibly alert and attentive, they make excellent watchdogs. They were initially bred to serve on barges and alert the owner when somebody approached. In contemporary living, they can sometimes see their very own household as their territory and any unfamiliar element, like the postman or a squirrel running across the yard, can trigger a round of barking. This, however, can be managed with proper training and socialization from an early age.
Lastly, it’s crucial to remember that every dog, regardless of breed, is unique. Just like humans, they have individual personalities and character traits, and these can deviate from the breed standard. Potential health concerns also play a part, as they can with any breed, and responsible breeders will always do their utmost to ensure that they breed from the healthiest stock.
To sum it up, if you’re comfortable with regular grooming, occasional barking, and don’t mind a little clinginess – you might have just found your perfect dog breed.
In the end, the question isn’t if a Keeshond is a difficult dog, but whether they’re the right dog for you. Their loyalty, intelligence, energy, and love for life make them an exceptional breed.
To know if a Keeshond is the right dog for you, consider your lifestyle and what you’re looking for in a canine companion. If you want loyalty, love, a bit of energy, and a lot of fluff, the Keeshond may be just the dog for you!
So next time you’re puppy browsing and you stumble upon the Keeshond – you are well-equipped with knowledge and ready to make a choice. Remember, when it comes to choosing a pet, it’s not just about how cute they are. It’s about finding the perfect match for you and your family.
