The AKC calls the amiable Keeshond a medium-sized spitz dog of ample coat, famous for the distinctive spectacles on its foxy face. Once a fixture on the canal barges of Holland, the Kees is built for cool weather, and that is the thing to plan around in Dixon.
Size and kennel
The AKC lists males at about 18 inches and females at about 17 inches, at 35 to 45 pounds. The thick coat makes a Kees look bigger than it is. One dog fits Economy at $52 a night on the 2026 rates, about 16 square feet inside plus 48 outside. Two Keeshonden from one home share it for $52 plus $44.
Double coat, double column
The Keeshond has a dense double coat with a profuse ruff and a woolly undercoat. It belongs in the last column of the bath chart. On the chart effective January 1, 2024, a 26 to 50 pound double-coated dog is $55. Please ask to confirm. Heavy shedding at coat change is normal, and a bath near the end of the stay sends a lot of undercoat down the drain instead of into the car.
A people dog
Keeshonden were barge companions and watchdogs, and they like to be where their people are. A Kees can be vocal when left. We recommend a calm check-in, one toy from home and a familiar blanket. Walks are included, and the fenced play areas let a friendly dog stretch its legs.
Heat is the issue
A dog bred for northern Europe carries a lot of coat in a place that has about 100 days a year at 90 degrees or higher. The runs are air-conditioned in summer, and the dog can choose inside or out through the doggie door. Please do not clip the coat for the visit; ask us if you are worried about heat.
First-stay checklist for a Keeshond
Brush out the ruff and the britches before drop-off, upload the vaccine records, and write the food amount in cups if you bring your own. Medications are given at no extra charge, so list any that your Kees takes.