Keeshond

The Keeshond, pronounced roughly "kayz-hond", grew up on the canals and rivers of the Netherlands. For centuries these dogs travelled on barges as companions and watchdogs, small enough not to take up much room and alert enough to bark at anyone stepping aboard. In the eighteenth century the breed became a symbol of a Dutch political faction, named after its leader, Kees de Gyselaer. Today it is above all a family dog, and a very good one.

The first thing people notice is the face. Dark lines running from the eyes towards the ears give the Keeshond its famous spectacles, and the mouth often turns up in what looks like a smile. That expression matches the temperament. Keeshonden are friendly, outgoing and deeply attached to their families. They were never bred to hunt or herd, so they have little prey drive and usually get on well with other dogs and, with sensible introductions, cats.

They are people dogs in the fullest sense. A Keeshond wants to be in the same room as you, and many follow their owners from one room to the next. That makes them wonderful companions for families and retired owners who are at home a lot, and a poor choice for anyone out all day. Left alone too long, they can become vocal and unhappy.

That voice is worth taking seriously. Keeshonden were bred as watchdogs, and they still bark to announce visitors, delivery drivers and anything else they find interesting. They are not aggressive guards, but they are effective alarm systems. Early training to teach a quiet cue, and plenty of company and activity, keeps it manageable. In flats with thin walls, think about the neighbours.

Exercise needs are moderate. Around an hour a day of walks and play suits most adults. They enjoy training and often do well in obedience, agility and rally, learning quickly with rewards. They can be sensitive, so a kind approach works better than a stern one. They cope well with cold but struggle in heat because of the coat, so walk early and late in summer.

Grooming is the big commitment. The coat is a harsh outer layer over a thick, soft undercoat. Weekly line brushing down to the skin keeps it healthy, and twice a year, the coat blows: the undercoat comes out in handfuls over two or three weeks, and daily raking becomes essential. The coat should never be shaved, because it insulates against both heat and cold and may not grow back properly. Despite the volume, a well-kept Keeshond has very little doggy smell.

Health is generally good, and the breed has several useful screening tools. Primary hyperparathyroidism, a condition that raises blood calcium and can cause bladder stones and kidney damage, has a DNA test, and responsible breeders use it. Hip dysplasia and patellar luxation should be screened, and epilepsy occurs in some lines. Eye examinations are worthwhile, and as with many breeds, keeping a Keeshond lean protects its joints.

Costs are moderate. Food and insurance are typical of a medium dog, while grooming can be done at home with good tools and a little patience, or handed to a professional a few times a year.

Who suits a Keeshond? Families, couples and older owners who are home a lot, enjoy a chatty, sociable dog and do not mind fur. Who should think again? Anyone who needs a quiet dog, anyone out at work all day, and anyone hoping to avoid regular brushing. For the right home, the Keeshond is a joyful, loyal and genuinely smiley companion.