How to Care for Keeshonds

Keeshonds are typically black, white and silver in color. These medium sized dogs make great pets for children and homes with more than one dog, as they tend to get along well with both. They love to play and are eager to please their owners. Keeshonds have a loud, distinctive bark that makes them a fantastic watchdog. Their thick coat, which sheds twice a year, gives the breed a distinctive look. A properly cared for Keeshond will live for 12 to 15 years.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Stiff bristle dog brush
• Lightweight dog leash
• Dog collar
• Dog toothbrush
• Dog toothpaste

1. Brush your Keeshond's coat on a daily basis using a stiff bristle brush. You should first brush the hair in the direction that it grows, then brush against it and lay the hair back in place. A Keeshond's coat should only be shampooed when it is dirty, since the soap and water dry out the skin.

2. Walk your Keeshond on a regular basis using a lightweight leash and collar. Keeshonds are very active and require regular exercise. Allowing your Keeshond to run in a park or backyard will also help to wear out your pet. Exercise will not only keep your Keeshond happy, but will also keep them from becoming overweight.

3. Provide water and shade for your Keeshond during hot weather. Due to its long, thick coat, Keeshonds are prone to overheating. If you must leave your Keeshond outside during warm weather, make sure it has water to stay hydrated and a place to go that is shaded.

4. Brush your Keeshond's teeth using dog toothpaste and a dog toothbrush. Brush the teeth in the same fashion you would your own, making sure to brush both the fronts and the backs. Your dog may not be agreeable to this practice at first, but should gradually adjust to the routine. Do not worry about your Keeshond swallowing the dog toothpaste, it is designed to be swallowed by dogs.

5. Provide your Keeshond with lots of toys and attention. Keeshonds are extremely intelligent dogs that require stimulation in order to remain happy. If allowed to become bored, Keeshonds will resort to destructive behavior. Once learned, it can be difficult to keep a Keeshond from repeating these behaviors.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the time you spend brushing your Keeshond to bond.

• Never leave your Keeshond in the car when it is warm outside.

• Never use human toothpaste to brush your Keeshond's teeth. It is not safe to be swallowed and your pet will not be able to spit it out.

Resources

• American Kennel Club- Keeshond Breed Standards