What is the origin of the Keeshond?
In the past, German Spitz breeds were part of many people's lives. They could be found across large parts of the world from Iceland to Japan. Some experts suspect that the breed descended from the peat-dogs, which already lived during the stone age. Proof of this is a bone find at Lake Biel. Illustrations of the ancient Romans and Greeks show animals that look amazingly similar to the Spitz of today. In the further course of history, the Spitz had the task of guarding farms. They also proofed themselves as
- rat- and mouse hunters. As hunting was reserved for the aristocracy and poaching was forbidden by law, the hunting instinct of the Spitz was eliminated through breeding.
- However, they also accompanied traders and guarded carriages and goods.
The Wolfspitz is often mentioned in the same sentence as the Keeshond. It is named after Cornelis "Kees" de Geyzelar, who led the Dutch People's Party and had a Wolfspitz as his companion. In 1781, the breed became the symbol for the patriots' struggle against the Orange Party. Today, however, the term "Keeshond" is not only used for the Wolfspitz, which for the Dutch describes all varieties. Responsible for the breed standard, which has been defined by the international dog association FCI, is the 'Verein für Deutsche Spitze' (Union for German Spitz breeds). It was founded in 1899.
What are the breed characteristics of the Wolfspitz?
Very typical for the Wolfspitz is their off-standing coat and their bushy tail. This is carried over the animals back. Until today it has kept its protective instinct, which makes them suitable as a watchdog. However, the breed has a relatively low stimulus threshold when it comes to hearing noises. Especially when the animal feels bored, it tends to bark.