The Keeshond (IPA pronunciation:['keIzhand] or KAYZ-hond; plural: Keeshonden) is a close relatives to other German spitzes such as the Pomeranian. Originally called the German Spitz, more specifically the Wolfsspitz, the name was officially changed to Keeshond in England, where it had been known as the Dutch Barge Dog, in 1926.
Keeshond Breed Standard
The Keeshond is a natural, handsome dog of
well-balanced, short-coupled body, attracting attention not only by his
coloration, alert carriage, and intelligent expression, but also by his
stand-off coat, his richly plumed tail well curled over his back, his
foxlike expression, and his small pointed ears. His coat is very thick
around the neck, fore part of the shoulders and chest, forming a lion-like
ruff-more profuse in the male. His rump and hind legs, down to the hocks,
are also thickly coated, forming the characteristic "trousers." His head,
ears, and lower legs are covered with thick, short hair.
Compare
the drawing at right of the breed standard with the photo of Scruffy at
left. Notice that it could be the same dog. Granted, he would
look a little better without the icicles hanging on his fur, but this was
Scruffy weather. He was never happier than when it was cold and snowy.
His favorite place to nap was on a snow pile. This makes perfect sense
when one considers that the origin of the Keeshond is Arctic or possibly
sub-Arctic.
From: TerrificPets.com (http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10294365.asp)
A keeshond will dig a hole to lie in the ground where it is cooler during the summer and warmer during the winter. This of course is behavior that can be corrected with proper training.
Keeshonds make excellent therapy dogs and nursing home visitors because of their lovable and affectionate nature. People love to see them and they have fun seeing all the people.
A Keeshond is a great watchdog but is not great at being a guard dog. The keeshond is better suited to colder weather than to heat. They are rated a ten out of ten in being affectionate.
The nickname given to the Keeshond is the "Smiling Dutchman". This is because of the way their lips are when they open their mouths.
The Keeshond is prone to separation anxiety and will be completely unruly at times. This is due to their need for human companionship. If they are lone for just a few hours they are find, but any longer, they become very upset. A Keeshond may not be the best pet for someone with a full time job or has an active lifestyle.
Some people who are allergic to dog hair live quite comfortably with a Keeshond because they have fur not hair. This should always be tested by spending time with a Keeshond before you buy one. It might not be the hair or fur, but rather the dander or allergens that are carried in the dog's fur or hair.