Keeshond Standards
- 16-19"
- 55-66 lbs
- large spitz
- small, triangular, erect ears
- well feathered tail is tightly curled over back
- long, straight, harsh coat, neck has mane
- mixture of grey, black and cream
History of the Keeshond
Most agree that the Keeshond shares its ancestry with the other German Spitz dogs, which would place Germany as its origin. However, some kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club (KC) view it as a separate breed entirely and state the Netherlands as its homeland. The Keeshond and Wolfsspitz very little in appearance, although, like most breeds, the height and weight requirements very from one country to another. Regardless of if it came from Germany or the Netherlands the breed has a deep history with the Dutch and became the national dog of Holland. Their modern name was derived from the Dutch political leader Cornelius de Gyzeluar, also known as Kees, who choose the breed as his mascot. Kees led a rebellion against the House of Orange and when he lost the breed was almost faced with extinction. The Keeshond was revived in 1920 by the Baroness van Hardenbroek.
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