Reasons To Consider The People Loving Keeshond For Your Next Pet

By Donna Lee


Most people who love dogs have favorites breeds. Tastes change over the years, but now Labs and miniatures seem to be the most popular canines. These are only two of over three internationally recognized breeds though. If you are willing to consider something different and a dog that naturally draws attention, you need to consider the Keeshond. Not only do they stop people in their tracks, these dogs are smart, lovable, and family friendly.

This particular breed started showing up in the sixteen and seventeen hundreds in Holland. There the dogs were used primarily to guard boats and barges and serve as companions to the rowers. The breed is still commonly referred to as Dutch Barge Dogs. They are cousins to Chows, Pomeranians, and a number of other breeds. The Dutch count this dog as their favorite. Dutch Barges did not get to the United States until 1929 and in 1930 were registered with the American Kennel Club.

They're very manageable for those who live in apartments, although they sometimes look bigger than they really are because of their thick coats and massive tails. Mature Barges only stand about a foot and a half high and weight around forty-five pounds. As you would expect, the males are slightly taller and heavier than the females.

These are people dogs. Barges are devoted to their owners and become great companions. They are extremely intelligent and eager enough to please that they take to training quite easily. All these dogs need is encouragement, consistency, and some favorite treats to master basic commands. Barges are full of personality and love showing off. They are known to spin in circles at the sight of their owners.

Barges are considered a pretty healthy breed, but like all dogs they're prone to certain diseases and conditions. You need to familiarize yourself with all the possible health issues before you commit to any pet. Barges may develop Addison's Disease which is very serious. The dogs can suffer from hip dysplasia, diabetes, and Von Willebrand's Disease, which involves clotting of the blood.

These dogs can adapt to all kinds of housing. They even thrive on boats, as long as there are people around. Left to their own devices Barges will develop a tendency to bark loudly and often to the annoyance of your neighbors. If a dog that will run long distances with you is something you want, you do not want a Dutch Barge. These animals can only stand a certain amount of exercise. Any more and they will get overheated. They thrive in cold climates and need protection from the sun in hot climates.'

You might be surprised to learn the Barges are not hard to maintain. Although they carry an undercoat and two top coats, their fur really doesn't mat much when it is brushed on a consistent basis. They will shed intensely two times a year.

You should avoid the temptation to shave them to keep them cool in the summer. Their heavy coats actually insulate them from the sun. They are easily sunburned if they are shaved.




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