Reasons Why The Keeshond May Be Just The Pet You're Looking For

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.

Barges are people dogs. They love their owners and make wonderful companions. These animals are also highly intelligent and so eager to please that training them is usually a matter of repetition, consistency, and a few treats thrown in. Barges have plenty of personality and love to show off. It's not unusual to see one spinning in circles because he's so happy to see his owner.

Unlike some pure breeds, Barges enjoy pretty good health. They do have a predisposition to certain conditions. Before you consider any breed, you should familiarize yourself with the potential health risks they face. Addison's Disease, which can be serious, is a condition Barges sometimes develop. They may also suffer from Von Willebrand's Disease, diabetes, and hip dysplasia.

These dogs thrive under most living conditions, including boats, when they have the company they crave. If left alone, Barges tend to bark. This is stressful for the animal and your neighbors. If you are looking for a companion to accompany you on long runs, the Dutch Barge is not for you. They require minimal exercise and will get overheated if forced to do too much. With their heavy coats, a cold climate is ideal for them. In warmer regions, Barges must be protected from excessive heat.

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.

The professionals say you should not have them shaved in the summer, even though they can't tolerate much heat. Their coats are insulators which actually help protect them from the summer sun. The coats also help prevent sunburn.




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