Can you imagine a canine who is not just a pet but also an excellent guard dog, capable of protecting your home from intruders? Sure, you most likely think about breeds like the German Shepherd or Rottweiler. But have you ever heard of a Keeshond?
Yes, Keeshond (pronounced as “kayz-hawnd”)! A fluffy, cuddly, and adorable dog hailing from the Netherlands. With their thick, plush coat and sparkling, bright eyes, they can easily be mistaken for a soft toy. However, beneath that furball facade lies a robust spirit and a natural instinct to guard.
This friendly creature is not the stereotypical image of a fierce and aggressive guard dog. Surprising, isn’t it? But let’s dive into the marvelous world of Keeshonds and find out more about their potential for being the ideal protective companion.
Keeshonds: A Brief History
To better understand if the Keeshond can be a good guard dog, it’s essential to know their history. Keeshonds belong to the family of Spitz dogs that are native to the Arctic regions. This breed was developed centuries ago in Holland, primarily as watchdogs on boats and farms. After all, their sharp senses and alert demeanor made them excellent protectors of their masters and environments.
The Keeshond received its name from Cornelis (Kees) de Gyselaer, the leader of the Dutch Patriot Party in the 18th century. His Keeshond, named Kees, became the symbol of the Dutch Patriots. Today, the sociable and attentive nature of the Keeshond has made it beloved worldwide.
Protectors with a Gentle Touch
Keeshonds are not the aggressive, rough dogs that may come to mind when you think of a guard dog. They are protective and loyal, yes, but there is more to guarding than just acting tough!
Indeed, the Keeshond combines a powerful instinct to protect with sensitivity and love for its owner. They are warm, kind-hearted, and always willing to serve as a guard dog but with a friendly wink and an amicable cuddle.
They might not have the size or intimidation factor of other guard dogs; standing about 1.5 feet tall and weighing between 35-45 pounds, a Keeshond is generally medium-sized. Yet, they possess an acute sense of hearing and exceptional intellect. These qualities allow the Keeshond to quickly detect anything unusual and bark to alert the owner, proving them to be very effective as watchdogs.
Human-Friendly and Sociable Guards
Despite their protective side, Keeshonds are brilliant company, always eager for social interaction. They are very friendly with adults, children, and other pets alike. Even amid guarding, their pleasant demeanour never fades away. This doesn’t mean they’re a pushover, though!
When they sense danger, their bark can be loud and persistent. The Keeshond has a ‘big dog bark’ that can scare off any intruder. It’s as if they have a dual personality—amiable yet alert!
Keeshonds: Quick Learners and Active Participants
Keeshonds catch on quick! Their intelligence and eager-to-please attitude make them easy to train. With positive reinforcement and socializing from an early age, this breed can master the art of being an effective guard dog. Keep in mind that training should always focus on gaining the Keeshond’s trust, rarely employing harsh discipline.
Furthermore, they love to stay active, enjoying long walks, energetic playtime, or basic obedience and agility exercises. This willingness to participate in activities is another positive sign of a good guard dog, always ready to check out any suspicious activity.
A Final Word
Keeshonds can indeed be regarded as good guard dogs, thanks to their alertness, loyalty, and intelligence. But remember, their rather sociable personality also makes them great family pets. They possess an endearing ‘people-oriented’ nature, balanced perfectly with their protective instincts.
All in all, if you want a pet that safeguards your home, not with harshness but with unfaltering loyalty and love, a Keeshond might just be the dog for you. This breed maintains a delicate balance—warding off unwelcome guests while showering their families with affection.
Just remember to invest time in training and socializing your Keeshond from an early age in order to bring out the best in them. After all, a happy dog is a loyal and protective dog! With the right nurturing, the Keeshond can be not only your fluffy companion but also a dependable friend that courageously defends your home.
So, the next time you think about adopting a guard dog, give the Keeshond a second thought—you might just find a furry guardian angel wrapped in a package of love and loyalty!
