Male vs Female

One of the most common questions I receive is whether there are noticeable differences between male and female Keeshonden. While every dog is an individual, there are some general tendencies that I’ve observed over many years of owning, raising, and breeding this wonderful breed.

Size Differences

The most consistent difference is size:

• Males typically weigh about 10 pounds more than females.

• They also tend to have a fuller mane or ruff, giving them a more dramatic, lion‑like appearance.

Personality Differences

In my personal experience, males often have bigger, fuller personalities. Before I began breeding, I owned only males for about 15 years, and if I were choosing a family companion, I would personally choose a male every time.

In general, I find that:

• Males are more affectionate

• More attentive

• More comical

• And often more of the classic “Velcro dog”

They tend to be deeply bonded and very in tune with their people.

Why Females Are More Requested

Despite my personal preference, females are consistently more sought after. I almost always have more deposits for females, and many people will pass on a male and continue waiting if a female is not available in a litter.

A client once summed it up perfectly:

“Girls are all about ‘What can YOU do for ME.’
Boys are all about ‘What can I do for YOU.’”

This has been true for every male I’ve ever owned.

Addressing Common Stereotypes

Males often get labeled as:

• Markers

• Humpers

But I firmly believe these behaviors are training issues, not gender traits.

I have never experienced these problems with my neutered males. Even my retired stud dogs—neutered later in life—do not show these behaviors once in a companion home.

Which Is Better for a Family?

Both males and females make exceptional companions, and both are placed on spay/neuter contracts, so all end up altered.

The only reason I might recommend a female is for someone who:

• Has lifting limitations

• Prefers a smaller dog for physical reasons

Otherwise, I encourage families to consider both sexes.

Don’t Overlook the Boys

If you insist on a female simply because that’s what you’ve always had, I encourage you to broaden your search. Males are often overlooked, yet they make phenomenal, loving, devoted companions.

Gender should not be the deciding factor—especially in a breed as consistently wonderful as the Keeshond.