Keeshond

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The Keeshond (plural Keeshonden) is a member of the spitz group of dogs that developed in northern climates and is related to the Samoyed, the Norwegian Elkhound, the Chow Chow, the Finnish Spitz, and its closest relative, the Pomeranian. For perhaps hundreds of years, the Kees served as a watchdog and rat killer on small boats that plied the Rhine River in its native Holland and as watchdogs and companions on farms and vineyards.

The Keesond has the typical spitz pointed muzzle, upright ears, plush, two-layered coat, and curled tail. He has a short, cobby body, moderately long neck, is well-balanced, and moves with a quick, clean gait. His coat is shaded gray with black-tipped overcoat determining the extent of the shading and the undercoat colored pale gray or cream. His spectacled face gives him a curious, intelligent expression, and his foxlike smile, complete with curled lips, shows his friendly attitude. The Keeshond is 17-18 inches tall at the top of the shoulders, with dogs a bit larger than bitches, and weighs 35-40 pounds. He is a good watchdog but not a guardian, likes children, and is sociable. He is an active dog and likes to be included in family activities. Although relatively easy to teach, he is sensitive to discipline and needs guidance rather than punishment in training.

The Kees is a moderate dog, needing a moderate amount of care. He is somewhat active indoors, needs daily exercise outdoors, and requires at least weekly grooming when not shedding. However, his thick undercoat blows out twice each year. If you can't handle the thought of chasing dog hair for six-to-eight weeks each year, the Keeshond is not for you.

Kerry Blue Terrier

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The Kerry Blue Terrier originated in Ireland and is an all-round working and utility terrier. The breed was used in Ireland and England for hunting small game and birds, and for retrieving from land and water. The Kerry Blue Terrier is an affectionate dog who is absolutely loyal to his family, and is a friendly, intelligent dog who will live comfortably as a house dog.

The ideal Kerry should be 181/2 inches at the withers for a dog, slightly less for a bitch. The most desirable weight for a fully developed dog is from 33-40 pounds, bitches weighing proportionately less. A well-developed and muscular body. Legs moderately long with plenty of bone and muscle. The Kerry Blue's coat is non-shedding, but requires lots of maintenance.

Kerries have a typical terrier personality. While extremely intelligent and quick to learn, they may only obey when it suits them to. Firmness and consistency are important when you own a Kerry Blue Terrier, and obedience training is highly recommended. Being terriers, they may have problems accepting cats or small pets (especially rodents). Aggression towards other dogs is common in the breed, but proper training and common sense go a long way in preventing problems. Many Kerries do peacefully co-exist with dogs and other pets with no problems.

Kerries are an excellent choice for families with children. They are an energetic, fun-loving breed, with a lot of common sense, and are big enough to handle some good natured rough-and-tumble without getting hurt or feeling the need to "defend themselves."

Komondor

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The Komondor is one of the more unusual breeds seen in the United States today: a big muscular dog covered with dense, white cords. This coat protects the dog against the elements and predators as it guards livestock in its homeland, Hungary.

The Komondor is a large dog with males standing at least 27 1/2" at the shoulders, while females must be at least 25 1/2" tall. Occasionally one may see a Komondor as large as 31" or even bigger, but these cases are rare. While large, the Komondor is not an overly heavy dog. Males usually weigh more than 80 pounds and females more than 60 pounds.

Despite its size, the Komondor is astonishingly fast, agile and light on its feet. The quick movement, large size, unique coat and majestic appearance of the Komondor can be awe inspiring. A fearless dog, the Komondor's main task is to guard flocks of sheep or other livestock against predators such as wolves, coyotes, feral dogs, or human predators. The nature of the Komondor is that of a calm watchful dog who thrives on responsibility. Komondors need something to watch over. Be it livestock, children, or a cat, a Komondor is happiest when taking responsibility for another's well-being.

Kuvasz

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The Kuvasz (plural Kuvaszok) is an ancient breed, among the oldest of all breeds. While scholars differ on the details, the origins of the Kuvasz are traced back as far as the cradle of civilization in Mesepotamia and the steppes of the Ural mountains in western Asia. It was in Hungary, however, that the breed achieved it's present appearance. The Kuvasz is a guarding dog, originally used for protecting livestock such as horses, sheep and cattle.

Kuvasz have a white, medium coarse, double coat : A soft undercoat, and a longer outer coat which can range from almost straight to wavy (not curly). At least some undulation in the coat should be apparent, although consideration needs to be given to recently washed dogs where washing and drying can relax waves to almost straight.

Males are generally 28-30 inches at the shoulder, and weigh 100-115 pounds. Females stand approximately 26-28 inches and weigh 70-90 pounds. While there is no maximum size for a Kuvasz, structural balance and proper movement is imperative.

The Kuvasz is a very intelligent, assertive dog, combining great strength with quickness and speed that is often unexpected in a dog of its size. A Kuvasz is unwavering in its loyalty and devotion to its family, be they people or animals. There is no threat he will not face in protecting those he loves. He is independent in nature, and is discriminating with strangers.