Keeshond vs Russell Terrier

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Keeshond is the larger breed at 35–45 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
  • The Keeshond typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Russell Terrier sheds less.
  • The Keeshond is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitKeeshondRussell Terrier
Group
Non-SportingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
NetherlandsEngland
Height (male)
18"10–12"
Height (female)
17"10–12"
Weight (male)
35–45 lbs9–15 lbs
Weight (female)
35–45 lbs9–15 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Keeshond

The Keeshond is a friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face. Originally from Netherlands, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lively, outgoing.

About the Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.

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Keeshond health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues
  • Epilepsy

Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness