The Great Watchdog, the Keeshond

Every Thanksgiving there is one tradition my family has other than the food and the parades. We always watch the Eukanuba Dog Show. We enjoy seeing all the different breeds of dogs, and deciding which ones we think should win or look the cutest. The Keeshond is one of the breeds that I always pick out of the groups. They are considered a working dog, since they are great at guarding your home. Though they have a watch dog bark, there is not a single mean bone in their body. This dog originated from Germany and was once referred to as Wolfsspitz. It's names was changed to Keeshond in England around 1926 and referred to then as the Dutch Barge Dog. Close relatives to this breed include the Pomeranian and other German spitz kind of dogs.

The Keeshond a medium sized dog weighing about thirty five to forty five pounds. They have small pointy ears and tails that curl back. The Kees has a profound double coat meaning they have a thick rough coat, and a softer coat. The coat should not be wavy, silky or long enough that a natural part is seen down the back of this dog. The coloration of their fur is very distinctive in that it's considered wolf colorations with a mix of black, grey, and cream. The black is on the tip of the top coat and the undercoat is the grey to cream colorations. This breed should not be simply black, or cream, or grey, but a mix of all three. The keeshond should have little dark circles under their eyes making it look as though they are wearing glasses. The eyes are dark brown and almond shaped. Their markings shouldn't be broken, and with there are no glasses look, that would be considered a serious fault in the AKC.

Though this dog has a mean bite, it's a very gentle animal. They love to play and interact with people and other animals. They have quick reflexes and remarkable jumping abilities. Unlike the Jack Russell Terrier, the Keeshond are quick to learn and easy to train although they can be stubborn sometimes. They are very obedience and agile dogs. They have the ability to be trained as guide dogs for the blind. They love to be around children and prefer to be near their human whenever possible, almost to the point of being clingy. Not only are they good for guide dogs, they are often used for comfort dogs in hospitals and nursing homes. Although their bark can scare away any intruders, their barking can become a problem.

Keeshonds are wonderful dogs with a wonderful temperament. They are perfect for any home, as long as it has room to run and someone to love the dog. They are great watch dogs, and are perfect for the woman living alone, or older couple. Whatever breed you choose make the Keeshond on the list.