Great Keeshees

The Great Pyrenees is an impressively large and powerful working dog, with males standing 27 to 32 inches at the shoulder and weighing over 100 pounds, while females measure 25 to 29 inches and typically weigh 85 pounds or more. This majestic breed was developed to guard livestock in the snowy Pyrenees Mountains along the French-Spanish border, and their substantial build reflects generations of breeding for strength, endurance, and exceptional weather resistance. The body is slightly longer than tall, presenting a well-balanced, elegant outline that combines substance with surprising agility for a dog of this impressive size. The Great Pyrenees head is not overly large in proportion to the body, with a slightly rounded crown and a reasonably broad wedge-shaped muzzle that tapers gently toward the nose. Their expression is elegant, intelligent, and contemplative, reflecting the breed's independent thinking nature. The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and rich dark brown in color, conveying gentleness when relaxed but becoming alert when aroused to duty. The ears are small to medium, V-shaped with rounded tips, and set at eye level, lying flat and close to the head in typical fashion. The nose and eye rims are black, providing attractive contrast against the predominantly white coat. The breed's magnificent double coat is one of its most distinctive features, consisting of a long, flat, thick outer coat of coarse hair that may be straight or slightly wavy, and a dense, fine, woolly undercoat that provides exceptional insulation. Males develop an especially impressive ruff or mane around the neck and shoulders, lending them a leonine appearance. The coat is predominantly white, though markings of badger, gray, reddish-brown, or tan may appear on the ears, head, tail, and occasionally on the body totaling no more than one-third of the overall coat. The breed's large, compact feet feature well-arched toes with double dewclaws on the rear legs, a characteristic that distinguishes them from many other breeds and was historically valued for traction on rocky mountain terrain. The plumed tail is carried low when relaxed and may curve upward in a distinctive wheel when the dog is alert.

The Keeshond is a medium-sized spitz-type dog with a distinctive appearance that immediately sets it apart from other breeds. Males stand approximately 18 inches at the shoulder, while females measure around 17 inches, with both sexes typically weighing between 35 and 45 pounds. The breed presents a square, sturdy outline with well-balanced proportions and bone structure in proportion to the overall dog, being neither coarse nor lightly made. Their compact, well-muscled body reflects their heritage as watchdogs on Dutch barges and farms, where they needed to be agile enough to navigate tight spaces while substantial enough to command attention. The Keeshond's head is one of its most expressive features, with a wedge shape, medium-length muzzle, and distinctive markings that create the breed's famous spectacles. These spectacles consist of delicate dark lines running from the outer corner of each eye toward the lower corner of each ear, combined with expressive eyebrows that give the breed an alert, intelligent expression. The eyes are dark brown, medium-sized, and almond-shaped, set somewhat obliquely. The ears are small, triangular, erect, and set high on the head, adding to the breed's alert appearance. The characteristic tight tail curl lies close to the back and contributes to the breed's distinctive silhouette. The breed's luxurious double coat is its crowning glory, consisting of a dense, woolly undercoat in pale gray or cream and a long, straight, harsh outer coat that stands away from the body. Males develop a particularly impressive ruff or mane around the neck. The dramatic coloring consists of a mixture of gray, black, and cream, with black-tipped guard hairs creating the characteristic shading. The muzzle and ears are dark colored. Twice yearly, Keeshonds blow their undercoat completely, requiring more intensive grooming during these periods. The breed should never be shaved, as the coat provides natural insulation in both hot and cold weather.