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Keeshond Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Keeshond
The Keeshond is a medium-sized spitz from the Netherlands, instantly recognizable by its plush silver-and-black coat, tightly curled tail, and the dark spectacle markings around its expressive eyes. Bred as a companion and watchdog on Dutch riverboats, the Kees is famously friendly, outgoing, and eager to be part of family life, earning a reputation as a superb people dog. Lively and clever, it trains readily and excels at canine sports, but it does bark to alert and carries a thick double coat that sheds and needs regular brushing. Affectionate with children and generally sociable with other dogs, it suits attentive owners who want a devoted, involved companion.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsTypical
Energy levelTypical
TrainabilityHigher than most
Grooming effortHigher than most
SheddingHigher than most
BarkingHigher than most
Apartment fitTypical
Good with childrenDefining trait
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersHigher than most
8 active listings
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Where this breed shines
- Friendly, outgoing, and devoted companion
- Trainable and eager to please
- Affectionate with children and generally sociable
Things to consider
- Thick double coat sheds and needs regular brushing
- Tends to bark to alert and can be vocal
- Prone to weight gain without adequate activity
History
The Keeshond descends from the same Arctic spitz stock as several northern breeds and became a fixture on the barges and canals of the Netherlands. In the 18th century it became a symbol of the Dutch Patriot political movement, taking its name from the dog of one of its leaders. The breed was refined in England in the early 20th century and gained AKC recognition in 1930.
Temperament
Friendly, affectionate, and outgoing, the Keeshond thrives on human companionship and dislikes being left alone. It is alert and makes a good watchdog while remaining welcoming to visitors. Intelligent and people-pleasing, it takes readily to positive training.
Questions to ask a Keeshond breeder
- Are the parents DNA tested for primary hyperparathyroidism?
- Are hip (OFA) and cardiac evaluations current?
- Has the litter had patella and eye examinations?
Health considerations to discuss
Patellar luxation. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA patella evaluation recommended
Hip dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA hip evaluation recommended
Primary hyperparathyroidism. Educational, non-diagnostic; DNA test identifies clear, carrier, or affected dogs
Cardiac disease. Educational, non-diagnostic; cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Keeshond breed overview · AKC Canine Health Foundation: Keeshond primary hyperparathyroidism genetic test · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Keeshond litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Keeshond puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Keeshond listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Keeshond puppies cost?
Listed puppies are priced at $1,750. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Keeshond breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.