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National Breed Club:
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Keeshond Care The Kees is a moderate dog, needing a moderate amount of care. He is somewhat active indoors, needs daily exercise outdoors, and requires at least weekly grooming when not shedding. However, his thick undercoat blows out twice each year, and dust bunnies give way to dust elephants during this time as tufts of hair drift about the house and scamper under furniture. A shedding northern dog, even a small one, is not for the faint of heart; if you get the vapors at the thought of chasing dog hair for six-to-eight weeks each year, the Kees is not for you. The coat should be brushed to the skin so that mats and hot spots do not form. If the puppy is accustomed to grooming from an early age, the experience will be a pleasurable one for both dog and owner, for this is a time for mutual bonding. Spray the coat lightly with water to prevent static electricity and use a pin brush to brush the hair from the skin outward all over the dog's body. Complete the grooming by using a wide-toothed comb to separate loose hairs from the coat. Don't comb too harshly or you'll break hairs and damage the coat. Be sure to carefully comb through the soft hair behind the puppy's ears to prevent formation of tangles and mats. The heavy Keeshond coat can be a bother to the dog in hot, humid weather. Dogs do not sweat under normal circumstances, but they lose a tremendous amount of moisture by panting. Owners must provide a supply of fresh water at all times to replenish that lost moisture to prevent dangerous dehydration. Usually an "easy keeper," the Kees does well on a well-balanced premium dog food. Some owners add a supplement during the winter to protect the coat and skin from the drying influences of furnace heat. The puppy should become accustomed to eating at regular times of the day; the food should be picked up if he doesn't eat within 15 minutes and offered again at the next meal time. The Kees often live 12-14 years. Although it suffers somewhat from hip dysplasia and is susceptible to some heart problems, von Willibrand's disease, and epilepsy, the Kees is a generally healthy breed. Flea allergy can also be a problem, but a good flea control program and proper grooming will prevent this problem. Buyers should be aware of these potential difficulties and select a breeder who tests breeding stock for hip dysplasia and other potential complications for which tests exist. |
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