Keeshond — breed guide
Keeshond — temperament, grooming, exercise, heat tolerance and care, from the Leash Life breed guide.
At a glance
- Group
- non-sporting
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 16–20 kg (35–44 lb)
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Plush standing double coat
Living with a Keeshond
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
- Constant heavy shedding.
- Quick to learn.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Sensitive to heat; keep summer walks short.
- Built for cold weather.
Temperament
Friendly · Lively · Attentive · Sociable
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Primary hyperparathyroidism
- Epilepsy
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Keeshond good with kids?
Generally yes. Keeshonds are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Keeshond good with cats?
Usually yes. Keeshonds typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Keeshond need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a Keeshond handle hot weather?
It is sensitive; avoid the midday heat.
Leash Life keeps a Keeshond's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.