This spitz type dog features a fabulous coat which consists of a short undercoat and a long overcoat making it quite fluffy indeed. Dating back to the 18th century, the Keeshond claims relatives of the Pomeranian, Chow Chow, Samoyed and Elkhound breeds. once used by the Dutch to guard canal boats, this breed was introduced to the US in the 1920s.
The Keeshond is a medium-size dog weighing in at around 50 pounds and reaching about 18 inches in height but don't let his size fool you as he has a big personality. This playful breed is very lively and intelligent - a great pet for an active family. ever alert, this dog can be kind of active inside but is very quick to be trained as long as you use gentle and consistent training methods. They are a loving and friendly breed will get along well with children and other pets. The Keeshond wants to be with his family and take part in all the family activities.
This compact fluffy dog has dark eyes and triangular ears that sit up straight. Looking like an oversized Pomeranian, he has a curly tail that rolls over on his back. A thick undercoat in light gray or cream causes his silvery overcoat to look even fluffier. The outer hairs are shades of gray with dark black tips.
While the keeshond is active inside he can do okay in an apartment as he only needs moderate exercise outside. A walk after supper each day with a romp in the park on the weekends to do him just fine. The Keeshond will do best however with a moderate sized yard but remember they prefer cool weather so make sure they are not left out to sweltering heat.
While Keeshond's can live for up to 15 years with good care they are prone to a few health problems. This breed can be susceptible to canine hip dysplasia and it can also have skin problems as well as heart disease. Proper care and yearly vet checkups will help your Keeshond remain healthy. Remember to have your dog immunized with all the appropriate immunizations and follow your Vets advice for healthcare and feeding. Be sure not to overfeed the Keeshond as they can have a tendency to gain weight.
With such a luxurious coat you might think that grooming your Keeshond could be a full-time job but, in fact, this breed only requires a good brushing everyday with a stiff brush. Be sure to brush both the outer layer in the undercoat. He can be bathed as needed. Of course, his fabulous coat does not come without a price and he does shed excessively in the spring and fall. But a little bit of hair is a small price to pay for such a wonderful pet!
The Maltese is a delightful pint-size dog. Its stuffed-toy appearance wins the hearts of many and its natural animation makes it appear as a beautiful little mechanical dog. The Maltese is a friendly and loveable pet. More Maltese positive features include charm, an excellent memory and trainability. The Maltese usually does well in obedience training. It is an excellent choice for older children and those who are carefully taught the proper manner in which to handle tiny breeds.
Some writers claim the Maltese's origin to be around 1500 B.C. Others say the breed as described by ancient historians appeared much different from the petite little dog we know now as the Maltese. It is thought that Phoenician sailors introduced the Maltese ancestors to Malta making it one of the oldest European toy breeds.
Because of European references to its early form the Maltese is believed to be of spaniel heritage like the Bichon. In American it is sometimes believed to be more closely related to European terriers. Positive facts place the Maltese in Europe during the 18th century. The first class for Maltese was in London at the Agricultural Hall in 1862. The American Kennel Club accepted its registration in 1888.
In England the tiny dog was well known as a rat catcher. More recently of course the Maltese has the reputation of a lady's favorite lapdog. The Maltese is known as one of the best therapy dogs due to its loving nature.
The Maltese stands about 9 inches tall and weighs between 4 and 6 pounds. The body is square and solidly constructed set upon straight legs. Characteristic of the breed is its dark eyes, black lid margins, lip margins, and nose rubber. The Maltese carries its long plumbed tail over its back. The coat of a Maltese is snowy white and parts along the spine covering its body with long, flat and silky hair.
Although you may be attracted to a Maltese because of its long, snowy white coat are you able to cope with the reality of keeping it clean and well groomed? If the Maltese is not brushed and combed on a regular basis (several times a week it not on a daily basis) the coat will tangle and mat. Some dogs have been neglected to the extent that they are completely covered in a felted mass that has to be shaved off with a fine clipper next to the skin. Therefore, thorough brushing on a daily basis or at least three times a week is very often the grooming requirement of a Maltese.
As with most toy dogs this size they require minimal exercise. Running around your house or backyard is often enough to keep them in tip top shape.
Probably the best type placement for a Maltese is in a home where they can be pampered and groomed to perfection. They are probably not a good choice as companions to younger children. An older child who is taught how to handle the Maltese is permissible.