Caring for your Keeshond

Quick answer

Keeshonds are known for their dense, plush double coats which require regular brushing to maintain skin health. Beyond coat care, owners should prioritize weekly checks of the skin, ears, and body condition to catch potential issues early. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight and monitoring their environment for heat and air quality are essential parts of their daily care routine.

Coat and Skin Maintenance

The Keeshond possesses a thick, weather-resistant double coat that serves as their primary protection. Because of this density, you must brush the coat regularly to prevent matting and to allow the skin to breathe. When brushing, use a tool designed for double coats to reach down to the undercoat. Neglecting this can lead to trapped moisture or debris against the skin, which may cause irritation. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and owners should make brushing a routine part of their week.

When grooming, always part the hair to inspect the skin underneath. Look for redness, flaking, or unusual odors. If you bathe your dog, you must dry the coat thoroughly. Moisture trapped near the skin is a common trigger for skin issues. Use a high-velocity dryer if necessary to ensure the undercoat is not left damp, as this is a recognised tendency in the breed.

Ear and Fold Hygiene

While the Keeshond does not have excessive skin folds, any area where skin meets skin or where hair is dense can trap moisture and debris. Inspect the ears weekly for signs of redness, discharge, or a strong smell. The vet will use an otoscope to look deep into the canal if you notice your dog shaking their head or scratching at their ears. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and early detection prevents the need for more intensive treatment.

Managing Body Condition and Heat

Maintaining a lean body condition is critical for your Keeshond. Excess weight puts unnecessary stress on the joints and makes it much harder for your dog to regulate their temperature. Because of their thick coat, they are particularly sensitive to heat. You should perform a body condition check once a week to ensure you can easily feel their ribs without excess fat covering them. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and managing weight is one of the most effective ways to support their long-term health.

Environmental Monitoring

Your Keeshond's environment plays a significant role in their skin and overall health. Keep a log of your dog's exercise levels in relation to the weather. If the air quality is poor or the temperature is high, adjust your activity schedule accordingly. Floors and stairs should also be monitored to ensure your dog is not slipping, which can cause joint strain. If you notice your dog hesitating on stairs or showing signs of stiffness, have your vet perform a physical exam to check for joint discomfort. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and how this passes down is not settled, making environmental management the best preventative measure.

Routine Veterinary Checks

Beyond your home care, a weekly glance at the nails, ears, and teeth will help you spot issues before they become painful. Your vet will conduct a full physical exam during your annual visit, but you are the first line of defense. If you notice your dog is suddenly lethargic, losing hair in patches, or scratching excessively, schedule an appointment. The vet will use skin scrapings or blood tests to rule out underlying causes. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and acting quickly is always the best approach.