Keeshond Care Guide — The Smiling Dutchman

The Keeshond (plural: Keeshonden) is a medium-sized spitz breed weighing 14–20 kg, originally bred as a companion and watchdog on Dutch barges. With their spectacular silver and black double coat, distinctive "spectacles" markings around the eyes, and perpetually cheerful expression, Keeshonden are one of the most personable breeds you will encounter. They are also one of the most underappreciated — and they come with health considerations that owners should understand thoroughly.

Companion Breed Temperament

Unlike many spitz breeds that can be independent or aloof, the Keeshond was specifically bred for human companionship. They are nicknamed "the Smiling Dutchman" because they literally appear to grin, curling their lips back to show their teeth in a non-aggressive expression that is unique to the breed.

• Velcro dogs: Keeshonden want to be with their people at all times. They follow you from room to room, sit on your feet, and will vocalize their displeasure if left alone for extended periods. Separation anxiety is a genuine concern with this breed.
• Alert barkers: They were barge watchdogs, and they take that role seriously. A Keeshond will announce every visitor, delivery truck, and suspicious squirrel. Early training to manage barking is essential, especially in apartment settings.
• Family-oriented: Keeshonden are excellent with children and other pets. They are gentle, patient, and rarely aggressive. Their medium size makes them sturdy enough for play without being overwhelming.
• Sensitive: This breed is emotionally perceptive. They respond poorly to harsh corrections and can become withdrawn or anxious in stressful households. Positive reinforcement training works best.

The Spectacular Double Coat

The Keeshond coat is one of the most dramatic in the canine world — a dense, soft undercoat beneath a longer, harsh outer coat that stands off from the body. The characteristic coloring is a mix of grey, black, and cream, with the dark "spectacles" around the eyes and a lighter "trousers" on the hind legs.

Coat maintenance is significant but manageable with a consistent routine:

• Brushing: Two to three times per week with an undercoat rake and slicker brush. During seasonal blowouts (spring and fall), daily brushing is necessary for 2–3 weeks. Matting develops quickly in the dense undercoat if brushing is neglected.
• Never shave a Keeshond: The double coat provides insulation against both cold and heat. Shaving removes this natural thermoregulation and can permanently damage the coat texture. The undercoat may grow back unevenly or not at all — a condition called post-clipping alopecia.
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or as needed. Use a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner designed for double-coated breeds. Thorough drying is critical — moisture trapped in the dense undercoat can cause hot spots and skin infections.
• Professional grooming: Many Keeshond owners have their dogs professionally groomed every 6–8 weeks. A good groomer understands the breed standard and will never shave or over-trim the coat.

Addison's Disease — The Primary Health Concern

Hypoadrenocorticism, commonly known as Addison's disease, affects Keeshonden at higher rates than most breeds. In this condition, the adrenal glands fail to produce adequate cortisol and aldosterone — hormones essential for stress response, electrolyte balance, and metabolism.

Diagnosis involves an ACTH stimulation test, which measures the adrenal glands' ability to produce cortisol when stimulated. Once diagnosed, Addison's disease is manageable with lifelong hormone replacement therapy — typically monthly DOCP injections (desoxycorticosterone pivalate) combined with daily oral prednisone. With proper treatment, dogs with Addison's disease live normal lifespans.

The cost of treatment varies but generally runs $50–$150 per month depending on the dog's size and the specific medications used. Pet insurance that covers hereditary conditions can significantly offset this cost.

Other Health Conditions

• Hip dysplasia: Moderate risk in Keeshonden. OFA or PennHIP screening of breeding stock is recommended. Maintain lean body weight and provide joint-supporting nutrients to reduce severity.
• Luxating patella: The kneecap slips out of its groove, causing intermittent lameness. Grades 1–2 are managed conservatively with weight control and anti-inflammatory support. Grades 3–4 may require surgical correction.
• Epilepsy: Idiopathic epilepsy occurs in Keeshonden. Seizures typically begin between ages 1 and 5. Most dogs are managed effectively with anticonvulsant medications (phenobarbital, potassium bromide, or newer options like levetiracetam). A consistent feeding schedule helps maintain stable drug levels.
• Hypothyroidism: Thyroid dysfunction causes weight gain, lethargy, coat thinning, and cold intolerance. Diagnosed via blood test and managed with daily thyroid hormone supplementation.
• Von Willebrand's disease: A bleeding disorder caused by deficiency of a clotting factor. DNA testing identifies carriers. Affected dogs bruise easily and may bleed excessively from minor wounds or surgical procedures.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Keeshonden have moderate exercise requirements — approximately 30–45 minutes of daily activity. They are not hyperactive dogs, but they do need regular physical and mental stimulation to stay healthy and prevent boredom-related behaviors.

• Daily walks: Two moderate walks per day suit most Keeshonden. They enjoy exploring new environments and are generally good on-leash walkers.
• Play sessions: Interactive games like fetch, tug, and hide-and-seek engage both body and mind. Keeshonden are playful well into their senior years.
• Heat sensitivity: Their dense double coat makes them heat-intolerant. Exercise during cooler parts of the day in warm weather. Watch for excessive panting, drooling, or reluctance to move — signs of heat stress.
• Dog sports: Keeshonden excel at obedience, rally, and agility at a moderate level. They also make outstanding therapy dogs due to their calm, empathetic temperament.

Nutrition and Feeding

At 14–20 kg, adult Keeshonden need approximately 600–900 calories per day. They can be prone to weight gain, especially if exercise is limited or treats are excessive. Weight management is particularly important for dogs with joint concerns (hip dysplasia, luxating patella) or thyroid issues.

• Coat nutrition: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for maintaining the Keeshond's spectacular coat. Fish oil supplementation (or foods with added fish oil) supports coat density, shine, and skin health.
• Joint support: Glucosamine and chondroitin from age 2–3 help protect joints, especially given the breed's predisposition to hip dysplasia and patellar luxation.
• Consistent meals: Two measured meals per day (morning and evening). Consistency matters especially for Keeshonden on epilepsy medication, where stable blood sugar supports drug efficacy.