Breed comparison
Havanese vs Keeshond
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
Keeshond5Affection with family5
5Good with young children5
5Good with other dogs5
5Openness to strangers5
5Playfulness5
3Energy level4
4Trainability5
3Mental stimulation needs4
5Adaptability5
3Watchdog / protective5
4Barking4
2Shedding3
3Coat grooming3
1Drooling2
The biggest differences
- Watchdog / protective: the Keeshond scores 5 out of 5, the Havanese 3.
They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, adaptability.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Havanese if you prefer a calmer dog, you want less dog hair. Pick the Keeshond if you want an energetic exercise partner, you want a dog that is easier to train, you want a more protective watchdog.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.