Keeshonden 2024 Calendars!

About the Keeshonden

Keeshond calendars are a delightful choice for dog enthusiasts who adore this energetic and friendly breed. These calendars feature a collection of captivating photographs or charming illustrations of Keeshonden, showcasing their unique characteristics and playful nature.

The Keeshond is a medium-sized dog breed known for its distinctive appearance and friendly nature. Originating in the Netherlands, the Keeshond belongs to the Spitz family of breeds and shares similarities with other Northern European breeds like the Samoyed and Norwegian Elkhound.

Keeshonden have a well-balanced and sturdy build, with a dense double coat that consists of a thick, harsh outer coat and a soft, downy undercoat. Their fur forms a distinctive "mane" around their neck and a plumed tail that curls tightly over their back. The breed's coat comes in various shades of gray, black, and cream, often with characteristic markings on the face resembling spectacles.

With their friendly and affectionate nature, Keeshonden make excellent family companions and are known for being great with children. They are intelligent, eager to please, and generally quick learners, which makes training them relatively easy. Keeshonden thrive on human companionship and enjoy being involved in family activities.

While they are social and good-natured, Keeshonden also serve as alert and reliable watchdogs. They tend to be vocal and will often bark to alert their owners of any potential intruders or unusual occurrences. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are important for this breed to prevent boredom and maintain their overall well-being.

In summary, Keeshonden are friendly, intelligent, and loyal dogs that make wonderful family pets. Their striking appearance, coupled with their amiable temperament, contributes to their popularity as both companions and show dogs.

Did you Know?

Symbol of the Dutch Patriot Movement: During the late 18th century, the Keeshond became a symbol of the Dutch Patriot Movement, which aimed to achieve political and social reforms in the Netherlands. The Keeshond, named after the Dutch political leader Cornelis (Kees) de Gyselaer, became a popular choice among the Patriots, who wore orange ribbons and carried Keeshonden as a symbol of their cause. Today, the Keeshond is still affectionately known as the "Dutch Barge Dog" or the "Smiling Dutchman."

Excellent "smiling" expression: Keeshonden have a distinct facial expression that gives them the appearance of smiling. Their almond-shaped eyes, combined with the dark markings that extend from their eyes to their muzzle, create the illusion of a perpetual smile. This charming feature adds to the breed's friendly and approachable demeanor, making them even more endearing to their owners and admirers.

"Barking boatsmen": Keeshonden have a tendency to be vocal and are known for their distinctive bark. In their history as "barking boatsmen," they would alert their owners on river barges and boats to any potential dangers or strangers approaching. This trait has persisted, and Keeshonden today often express themselves through their vocalizations, making them effective watchdogs and guardians.

The Keeshond's double coat serves as protection against harsh weather conditions. While their fur is beautiful and fluffy, it does require regular grooming to keep it in good condition. Keeshonden shed moderately throughout the year and have two heavy shedding seasons, known as "blowing coat," during which they shed their undercoat. Regular brushing helps to manage shedding and keep their coat healthy and free from mats.