Weight

Height

Coat

Litter size

Life Span

25–45 pounds (11–20 kg)

Fine, dense

6-8 pups

12-15 years

AKC MEET THE BREEDS®: Keeshond

American Kennel Club

A medium-sized, sturdy dog, the Keeshond possesses the characteristics of other Northern breeds – a fox-like expression, stand-off coat and richly plumed tail carried over the back. His coloring is a mixture of gray, black and cream, with variations from light to dark and distinctive "spectacles" – markings and shadings in the eye area, including a delicate, dark line slanting from eye to ear and expressive eyebrows.

A Look Back
Basically unchanged over the past two centuries, the Keeshond descended from the same arctic strains as the Samoyed, Chow Chow, Norwegian Elkhound, Finnish Spitz and Pomeranian. The Kees was originally served as a watchdog on riverboats, barges and farms. Especially popular in Holland in the late 1700s, the breed also became a symbol of the Dutch Patriot political party and its leader Kees de Gyselaer, who owned a dog named Kees and gave the breed its name. When the Patriots were defeated, the Keeshond became rare in Holland until it was revived a century later, when it also began appearing in England and America.

Right Breed for You?
An affectionate, good-natured companion, the Keeshond is outgoing and friendly with people and dogs, following the lead of their owners when welcoming strangers. The breed learns quickly and is energetic, requiring daily exercise. Twice-weekly brushing is sufficient.

American Kennel Club

AKC MEET THE BREEDS®: Whippet

American Kennel Club

A medium-sized sighthound giving the appearance of elegance and fitness, the Whippet denotes great speed, power and balance. In fact, the Whippet, an English Greyhound in miniature, is the fastest domesticated animal of his weight, capable of speeds up to 35 m.p.h. A very versatile breed, they can appear in a wide variety of colors and markings. Although keen when racing or coursing, they are quiet and dignified in their owner’s living room.

A Look Back

Having evolved for over a hundred years, it was not until 1891 that official recognition was given to the Whippet by the English Kennel Club. Used for racing early on, the breed was nicknamed "the poor man’s racehorse." Whippets were first brought to America by English mill operators of Massachusetts, which for many years was the center of Whippet racing in this country. Later the sport moved south to Maryland, particularly in Baltimore. Right Breed for You?
The Whippet is a natural athlete and needs regular exercise. As with any breed it is also important that the Whippet has proper nutrition, vaccinations, and regular veterinary visits. Whippets are particularly well adapted for human companionship and make excellent house dogs

American Kennel Club