Appearance
The Keeshond is a handsome, medium-sized dog of short-coupled body, whose ideal height in the official Breed Standard is 18" at the withers (shoulder) for males and 17" for females. He attracts admiring attention for his abundant silver gray-to-black shaded coat; his elegant carriage; his intelligent, alert expression; fox-like face with spectacle markings around his dark eyes; small, erectly-held pointed ears; luxurious "ruff;" "feathering" on his forelegs; "britches" (or "trousers") on his hind legs, and richly plumed tail curled over the back.
Females carry a softer, less profuse coat and usually have a more refined head than their male counter-parts.
Temperament
Although quick to give the alarm when someone approaches their home, Keeshonden are not "attack" dogs nor "yappers." They quickly offer friendship to those welcomed by their owners.
The affectionate, adaptable, happy nature of the Keeshond; his lover of life and eagerness to learn whatever is required of him, combined with his devotion to his owners, makes him an outstanding companion for people of all ages. His beauty is an added source of pleasure and pride.
Keeshonden are highly intelligent and quick to learn if taught with consistency and kindness. They are free spirits with a mind of their own and a sense of humor, sometimes mistaken for stubbornness. They are also extremely sensitive to your moods. If you treat them with respect and gentleness, they want nothing more than to please you.
Keeshond need human companionship and should always be "house dogs." They should never be required to live in the backyard, basement, or a kennel.
Source: Keeshond Club of America