There’s an abundance of factors to take into consideration when you are choosing the breed of your next potential pet dog – their intellect, energy level, size, obedience, compatibility with children and/or other dogs. All of these play a crucial role in how your life will look like in the future. To help you out, we compiled short summaries of your favorite breeds, and today we’re exploring the more exotic ones. Meet the Keeshond,  a medium-sized dog that comes from Germany.

The first thing you will probably notice straight off the bat is that their name is something you’re not used to and will probably pronounce wrong – you’re supposed to say kayz-hond, even though you might think there’s a sh-sound in the name. The second thing you will notice is that they are absolutely gorgeous to look at. They come packing an impressive gray, black, and cream coat, as well as a massive, plumped tail. They were known for centuries as the “Dutch Barge Dog” because of their role as companion and guardian on both barges and larger boats on the numerous canals and rivers of the Netherlands.

Personal Traits

The Keeshond was originally bred for the sole purpose of being a companion, much more than a watchdog. They are not hunters, nor do they have an innate desire to do any particular job, so if you plan on obtaining a dog that will love nothing more than to pull your sleds or fetch you things, you might want to skip the Keeshond. They are, first and foremost, devoted friends, loyal companions, and life-long allies that thrive on nothing more but your happiness.

Although they are not exactly working dogs, that does not mean that they aren’t intelligent, or that they cannot be trained. In fact, Keeshonds are highly trainable, and some are even so smart that they tend to get a little mischievous – they know their way around when it comes to fooling unsuspected people for personal gain. Always expect the unexpected when dealing with a Keeshond, especially since their curiosity knows no limits, prompting some people to even compare them to cats. Despite all this, they easily learn proper canine manners and can excel in the obedience ring – all it takes is just a little patience.

It is a lively, alert breed that is full of personality, and they always use any means imaginable to show you exactly how they feel. When they are excited or happy, they will gladly share their joy with everyone (and everything) often frantically spinning in circles. Same things goes for when they are sad, they will make sure everyone knows that something is wrong with them and that they require additional care. Their outgoing personality, combined with their love of both adults and children alike, endears them to all. Make sure to socialise them early, as in expose them to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences, especially if you have a puppy. Socialization helps ensure that your Keeshond puppy will end up being a well-rounded dog.

Health

If you’re buying a puppy, don’t settle for anything but the best – find a good breeder who will provide health clearances for both your puppy’s parents. Health clearances prove that a certain dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. As far as Keeshonds are concerned, the most common health clearances you should expect are from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and Von Willebrand’s disease; from Auburn University for thrombopathia; and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation a certificate that their eyes are normal.

Care

Seeing as how this is a breed that was created for being a companion dog on barges, the Keeshond has learned how to be happy in much smaller places than dogs usually require. They can live cheerfully in apartments and homes with large yards alike, and if you happen to live on a boat – this is the breed for you. What’s more important is their need to live in the house with their family, because they are companion dogs – it’s essential that they are allowed to share as many aspects of his owners’ lives as possible. Don’t kick them off the couch, or forbid them from following you around your home – you’ll break their hearts, and then they will break your favorite vase.

If you leave them alone for a longer period of time, they will easily become bored and their natural propensity for barking will intensify, and Keeshonds can become nuisance barkers if allowed. If you don’t plan on spending quality time (and plenty of it) with your Keeshond in the house on a daily basis, consider getting a different breed.

Also check out this:

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