Have you ever heard of a Keeshond? It’s a unique and fluffy creature whose roots trace back to the 18th century, often recognized by its distinctive gray, silver, and black coat. But what truly stands out about the Keeshond (pronounced as ‘kayz-hawnd’) is not just its physical appearance – it’s the breed’s intellect. You might be surprised to learn that Keeshonds are actually considered one of the smartest dog breeds worldwide!
Originally bred in the Netherlands, the Keeshond, or Dutch Barge Dog, was used as a companion and watchdog on barges in the Rhine River. Known for their agility, alertness and above all, intelligence, they served as reliable watchdogs on these ships, able to warn the boatmen of any strangers or dangers approaching.
Now, you might be asking: “What makes the Keeshond smart?” That’s a great question! Is it the way they can master tricks? Or how they can sense their owner’s mood? Interestingly, it’s all of the above and more.
First off, Keeshonds are exceptionally quick learners. They can pick up and remember instructions faster than most other breeds, which means they’re easy to train. All you need is patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement! With just a few training sessions, your Keeshond might surprise you by perfectly performing a new trick or command. But remember, just like us humans, every Keeshond is unique; some might learn quicker than others.
Secondly, Keeshonds have a superb memory. Do you recall where you put your car keys last year? Or what you had for dinner two weeks ago? Probably not. But for Keeshonds, their ability to remember is truly impressive. They can recall routes, faces, and even instructions from years ago. This means if you’ve trained them to do something, they’ll likely remember it for a lifetime.
Thirdly, what sets the Keeshond apart is their emotional intelligence. This might sound strange for a dog, but Keeshonds, like some other breeds, can sense and respond to their owner’s feeling. Is their owner sad, happy, stressed out? The Keeshond will likely be the first to know, offering a comforting presence to cheer their owners up or sharing in the excitement.
Now, apart from being intelligent, Keeshonds are keen on social bonding. They are highly affectionate and love to be part of the family’s daily life. And because they are smart, they can learn and respect the house rules quickly.
So you might be thinking, “Wow, a Keeshond sounds perfect! It’s intelligent and caring!” They indeed can be – but just like any other breed, a Keeshond also requires certain care and consideration. Despite their high intelligence, they can become bored quite easily. They want to use their intellect and energy. A bored Keeshond might show signs of stress, like destructive chewing or continuous barking. Therefore, it’s important to have regular mental and physical exercise for your Keeshond.
Try rewarding them with puzzle toys or new tricks to keep them mentally stimulated. A walk or playful session in the backyard can also help exercise their body. Socializing them with other dogs or people is another excellent way to engage their attention and intelligence.
Furthermore, grooming is another aspect to consider. Keeshonds do have a thick double-coat, which can shed especially during seasonal changes. Regular grooming will ensure your Keeshond’s coat remains healthy and neat while also controlling the shedding.
So, is a Keeshond a smart dog? Yes, they certainly are! But like every other breed, they come with their own set of needs and requirements. However, I believe that with the right approach, patience, and care, a Keeshond might just turn out to be the perfect intelligent and loyal companion you’ve always wanted.
In summary, not only is the Keeshond highly intelligent but they’re also great companions, making them an excellent choice for those in search of a clever, loyal fur friend. Their quick learning ability, extraordinary memory and emotional intelligence are what truly sets them apart, ensuring that they always leave a paw print on your heart. Remember, their intelligence demands regular stimulation, exercise, and love to keep their minds sharp and happy. Do these, and you will have a loving, smart & fluffy companion by your side for many years to come.
