Keeshond vs Yorkshire Terrier

Which dog breed is right for you?

Keeshond

Size
35–45 lbs, 17–18 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Friendly Outgoing Lively Alert

Yorkshire Terrier

Size
4–7 lbs, 7–8 in
Lifespan
11–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
Yes
Bold Confident Spirited Affectionate

About the Keeshond

The Keeshond — pronounced "KAYZ-hawnd" — served as the watchdog and companion of Dutch barge operators on the Rhine River for centuries before becoming the symbol of the Dutch Patriot political party in the 18th century. Standing 17–18 inches tall and weighing 35–45 pounds, this spitz-type breed has an abundant, standoff double coat in dramatic shades of gray, black, and cream with distinctive dark "spectacles" markings around the eyes. Their plush, foxlike appearance and perpetually smiling expression make them one of the most visually appealing medium-sized breeds.

Temperament & Personality

Keeshonden are outgoing, friendly, and remarkably intuitive — often called "the smiling Dutchman" for their upturned lip expression and consistently cheerful demeanor. They are deeply people-oriented dogs that thrive on family involvement and are exceptionally good with children, often showing patience and gentleness that surpasses many breeds specifically marketed as family dogs. Their alert, watchful nature makes them excellent watchdogs who will announce visitors enthusiastically without aggression.

Pros

  • Outstanding family dog — gentle, patient, and naturally good with children of all ages
  • Friendly toward strangers and other dogs — sociable without being pushy
  • Moderate exercise needs — satisfied with daily walks and play sessions
  • Highly trainable and eager to please — excel in obedience and agility

Cons

  • Heavy shedding — the thick double coat blows profusely twice yearly and sheds moderately year-round
  • Prone to excessive barking — their watchdog heritage can become a nuisance without training
  • Susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and hyperparathyroidism
  • Thick coat makes them heat-sensitive — require air conditioning and limited outdoor time in summer

A Keeshond's smile could brighten your entire household — discover adoptable Keeshonden on Puplister.

About the Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier was developed in the mid-19th century in the English counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire by working-class weavers who bred small terriers to catch rats in textile mills and coal mines. Despite their current status as a glamorous toy breed, these feisty dogs retain every bit of their terrier courage in a tiny 7-pound, 7-to-8-inch frame. Their signature floor-length, silky coat is steel blue on the body and rich golden tan on the head and legs — a single-layer coat that grows continuously and is remarkably similar to human hair in texture.

Temperament & Personality

Yorkshire Terriers are bold, confident, and fiercely loyal — they carry themselves with a self-importance that far exceeds their diminutive stature, never hesitating to challenge dogs ten times their size. They are deeply attached to their owners and can be wonderful companions for adults and older children, though their small size and feisty temperament make them a poor fit for rough play with toddlers. Yorkies are intelligent, curious, and entertaining, bringing big-dog energy and attitude to the smallest package in the terrier world.

Pros

  • Minimal shedding — silky coat is more similar to hair than fur
  • Tiny size ideal for apartments, travel, and urban living
  • Bold watchdog temperament — always alert to unusual activity
  • Long lifespan of 11 to 15 years with proper care

Cons

  • Fragile — easily injured by falls, being sat on, or rough handling
  • Long coat demands daily brushing or regular professional grooming
  • Prone to tracheal collapse, patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, and dental disease
  • Can be difficult to housetrain and may develop snappish behavior if overindulged

Yorkshire Terriers prove that the best things truly come in small packages — find your Yorkie on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Keeshond and a Yorkshire Terrier?
The Keeshond is 35–45 lbs, 17–18 in sized while the Yorkshire Terrier is 4–7 lbs, 7–8 in sized. They differ in size (35–45 lbs, 17–18 in vs 4–7 lbs, 7–8 in), lifespan (12–15 years vs 11–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Keeshond or Yorkshire Terrier?
Keeshond is generally good with kids. Yorkshire Terrier is not typically good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Keeshond or Yorkshire Terrier?
The Keeshond has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Yorkshire Terrier has a lifespan of 11–15 years.

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