Ava Williams
Shoulder height: 30 – 38 cm
Weight: 7 – 10 kg
Age: 12 – 14 years
Color: pure white
Use: companion dog, the family dog
The Japanese Spitz is a small, friendly, and sociable companion dog specially created for Japanese living conditions. It is easy to train and therefore also suitable for dog beginners.
Origin and history
According to the breed standard, the Japanese Spitz is descended from the white German Grobspitz, which came to Japan at the beginning of the 20th century. This was followed by crosses with Canadian, North American, and Chinese white tops. After the Second World War, the first uniform breed standard was established.
Appearance
The Japanese Spitz is roughly the same size as the German Mittelspitz. Unlike the German Spitz, its body is slightly longer than it is high. Its fur is typically pointed – very luxuriant and equipped with plenty of undercoats so that the straight top coat stands out in a bushy manner from the body. On the neck, shoulders, and chest, the fur forms a distinct ruffle. The coat color of the Japanese Spitz is exclusively pure white.
Also typical of the Spitz group are the pointed muzzle, the slightly slanted, almond-shaped eyes, and the small, triangular pricked ears. The tail is medium length and bushy and is carried over the back.
Nature
The Standard describes the Japanese Spitz as smart, cheerful, and alert. It is alert but neither nervous nor overly barking. Unlike its German relatives, the Japanese Spitz was not bred as a guard dog, but purely as a companion dog. That’s why it’s not a barker either. It is reserved but not shy towards strangers. It also gets along well with other dogs and is generally a socially acceptable companion.
With its compact size and peaceful, uncomplicated nature, the Japanese Spitz can be kept well in an apartment. But he also feels at home in the country or with a large family. The affectionate Japanese Spitz loves long walks, attention, and varied activities, but does not demand top sporting performance. Even dog beginners will have fun with the sociable, cheerful Japanese Spitz. The long coat needs regular brushing but is then easy to care for.